Alcoholic to Fulltime Vanlifer! Bit deep this one, guys!

[@M-LFC491]

Good for you Sam. You are not melodramatic nor playing the victim, you just tell it as it was/is for you. And also great how much you value helping others who are experiencing the same. You told your story so well. It would be great to hear Rebecca's story too. It is great that you are still together and love and support each other.

[@theirishhomestead]

Hi. Thank you for that message. I'm glad it came across OK. It is a very hard subject to discuss, especially as a man, but hopefully, it has helped someone. Rebecca hasn't thought about sharing her side of things, but maybe one day. 👍

[@gerriobrien1208]

It’s wonderful that you are in a good place, and sharing with others to help them. We ALL have something, or things in our lives, that we need to deal with, work on, overcome. God bless you, and your beautiful family. Well done. Life is an adventure …and a journey.

[@patriciahynes145]

This is a massive inspiration

[@Riyuzako7]

beyond proud of everything you have accomplished & all of those defeatist thoughts you’ve conquered and prevailed, you’re a great uncle and father. i love you- Tommy ❤️

[@theirishhomestead]

Aww thanks Tom! Love you too. X

[@luminyam6145]

Addiction really steals things from us. You have really turned things around.💖

[@travelbowuk]

Such a brave person sharing this story ❤️ it can help so many

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks so much. I hope it helps at least one person and that also helps me. 🙂

[@ear677met]

Well done mate, you should be very proud of yourself. Telling your story of recovery will help others. Thank you for sharing. Enjoy your wonderful future. God bless.

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks pal. Yes I hope that by sharing my story will help someone get the help they need. Thanks for the support, Sam.b

[@seanoneillsongs]

This should have millions of views. Thanks Sam. The honesty on your channel - both from you and Rebecca is commendable and something not often found on social media. Applause.

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you Sean. So kind of you. 😊

[@sdfilyer]

Thankyou so much for sharing. I am the child of an alcoholic. I am now 71 years old and am still dealing with my father's past. My dad never dealt with his alcolhol problems and never admitted that it affected anyone else let alone himself. You will never regret this decision and your family will always be thankful.

[@theirishhomestead]

Have you ever been to Alanon its an amazing global group of people

[@sdfilyer]

Yes. I have lots of support and lots of help. However the reality of abuse is that it is not something that you can erase or pretend that it never happened. My past was shaped by the choices of my alcoholic father. My future is shaped by my choices and the choices of my loving family and friends.

[@irishhiker54]

What a powerful, beautiful, uplifting story, Sam. Thank you for sharing it. Your words are saving lives.

[@theirishhomestead]

I really hope so! 🙏

[@Gerry2210]

Fair play to you for opening up like that, I’m certain that will be a lot of help to many people. Keep it up lad, I have been enjoying your videos since you moved to Ireland, but I don’t envy the work that’s ahead of you, restoring that house, but if it’s determination that’s required, you certainly have it. I know all about the Irish weather, I’ve lived here for over seventy years, but never forget, you have your own sunshine in your wife and children since you took control of your own life. Lovely man so you are.

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you for those kind words. I opened up in the hopes that others can see there is a way out. Part of recovery is to help others. If I help even one person, that is amazing for me.

[@martinarmstrong3068]

You my friend are a big inspiration, keep your chin up, keep fighting, and keep going! Brave man for talking about this,, keep pushing on and you will get through..best of luck and enjoy yrself with the van life... martin and michelle.

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks so much guys for those lovely, comments. We appreciate the support. Becky & Sam.

[@tjeffscats]

We have just watched this video and I would like to share that my 68 Yr old husband is an alcoholic and is now ok. 2 years of him choking after sneaking gin,accidents falling in the house, blood everywhere and taking him to hospital, lies, promises to stop and in August after alcoholics anonymous meetings and making him leave for 2 weeks made him change. I suffered terribly with stress supporting him and now we are on our 2nd visit to ireland next week viewing properties to settle there. Watching this video made me thank my lucky stars that my husband is back to himself. Even I don't drink anymore. It destroys families. Thankyou for sharing 😊

[@theirishhomestead]

Amazing, life is so much brighter now, love Ireland🇮🇪

[@katiemalone323]

Thank you Sam for sharing such deeply personal experiences. I lost my husband to suicide after so many struggles with alcohol. God bless you on your journey and your wonderful family. xx

[@Adrian-AosFotos-Irish]

Good people ,humble people can have the toughest of times . You have a great wife that stayed with you, good on her and you .I once heard the reason for depression is living a life of falsehood and avoidance. Keep it up mate ,welcome to Ireland from Cork👍 💚

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you. 👍♥️

[@neoman7479]

thank you

[@jellies6996]

I’ve been watching your videos sine you landed in Ireland,and just watched your story of recovery Sam , by God you are a brave man to share it,but you are an inspiration in your attitude.I want to also talk to your wife and family who stuck by you all this time and never quit. They deserve a mention,because I’m sure there were a lot of tears shed, lonely nights and day when you weren’t sure where it was all going to end . I’m glad you got your life sorted and going in the right direction Sam. I hope you all have a great Christmas and a happy new year 🎉Just keep on swimming xx Jo ❤

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks for that message, Jo. It's really lovely of you. Yes, it was a terrible time, especially with 2 very young babies to look after, but we got through it. That's why I think we can do things like give up the house & go travelling then buy a ruin! We have a very strong relationship. If you can get through what we did, you can get through anything. X

[@jellies6996]

@@theirishhomestead A truer word was ever said!

[@RoseS-o7v]

Hi guys keep strong and healthy one day at a time .❤❤

[@RoseS-o7v]

I’m also from Australia I’ve been watching your videos your doing very very well so keep at it.

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks so much. We are learning to just try & focus on one thing at a time. Hard to reign yourself in sometimes!

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you! Bet you're basking in sunshine right now! 🌞🌞

[@susanjackson1307]

Your family must be so glad you asked for help and you were ready to accept it. Well done

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks Susan yes luckily all my family are super supportive. Happy to still be here and able to enjoy this new path in life. Sam.

[@she9518]

Luv ya bro yup ur pain n despair is certainly a asset you can help others with iv been you.iv got you I understand you that's what experience can do help peeps! We've lost the power of choice and tryed to control our drinking to the gates of insanity n suicide! Swearing hand on heart im just gonna have 1! Alcohol was our master well not today wowzaaa uve done amazing! Looking forward to our convos of all them ramdens your gonna meet x super proud of thankyou for sharing ur story xxx

[@criticalthinker7746]

Sam you and Bec are amazing. I do not understand Alcohol addiction, but I understand addiction. Both as as a victim and later as an addict. Like you I have got through until today and strive to carry on every day. I am proud of you for your journey. I am proud of Bec for standing by you and waiting for you to get to where you are.

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you. Keep on being strong. 💪👍♥️

[@beverleyyates6766]

Sam you should be super proud of yourself for being a survivor well done you x

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks Beverley that's so nice of you to say.

[@janp5712]

❤

[@KarenHT397]

Wishing you the best for your future, you deserve every happiness

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you so much.

[@Lisa-it5cq]

Thank you for sharing. I recently found your channel and I've been playing catch up. We just buried my younger brother who died from alcoholism, depression and anxiety. I'm gutted. I hope you continue to win your battle.

[@theirishhomestead]

Hi. So so sorry to hear this. Such a sad loss for you. Sending our condolences to you and your family. Alcohol is such a terrible thing for so many.

[@patrickcarroll960]

You are a credit to the life ethos well done you put a path in someone eyes that they wouldnt know was there it proves you can cange ' move forward

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks, Patrick, for your lovely words! We are really excited for our future in Ireland.

[@notyou9743]

So good of you to share. My 38 year old son wouldn’t get help. He took his own life 2 years ago. I wish I could have helped him. I’m still grieving and will be forever

[@theirishhomestead]

So so sorry to hear this. My heart breaks for you. 💔

[@marydalton5752]

Sam, thank you for your bravery and sharing your AA journey! I'm sure just by sharing you're helping people in despair turn their lives around for the better! I was born and raised in Akron, Ohio, USA where AA was founded by Dr Bob Smith, a surgeon & a nun, Sister Ignatia. Every year there is Founders Day for AA in Akron and people from all over the US and beyond attend the events for that. A fair amount of them have motorcycles which they ride in on and ride around on during that day and for a couple of days! The hospital, Summa St Thomas where the original meetings outside of Dr Bob's home were held in Ignatia Hall (named after Sister Ignatia) has just been torn down. Of course there are other locations to attend AA meetings. Dr Bob's house which is a museum now is also in Akron. God Bless You, Rebecca & your children! I have been watching your videos of restoring your cottage for a few months now. Today, December 28, 2024 I started watching your older videos from #1 through this one to catch up. My ancestors are from Ireland, Lithuania & Italy. Your videos are so good that I feel like I'm in the UK, Ireland & Scotland while watching them!

[@TheHavasu_77]

Thank you so very much for opening up about your journey. I never really had a problem with alcohol till 2020 and the pandemic. I hit rock bottom with Jameson whiskey last year and went to jail for 9 days, almost lost my family, and had no will to live anymore. Today I am 402 days sober and now I help others going through this struggle. I understand and I see you, and I’m so very proud of you. We have AA here but I’ve found my home in Celebrate Recovery at my local church, I’ve worked the steps and I’m helping others work the steps. You’re awesome for speaking out about this, and this video alone will help loads of people. I’m thoroughly enjoying your process of your Irish farm, but I had to come to this video and say thank you for this. From this American recovering alcoholic in Arizona USA to you, thank you. ❤

[@theirishhomestead]

So happy you are in a positive place and it sounds like you are doing brilliantly. It's not an easy path but you will get there. X

[@michellelane225]

I’m a retired Nurse specialising in Addictions, and a Veteran. I think you have done amazing, keep going and keep talking. The key is recognising the signs. Rebecca is lovely and I admire her. Can’t have been easy on all of you. But look at where you all are now. It looks beautiful and you have both inspired me. Thank you so much . Michelle x

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you so much Michelle. It's not been an easy path but so grateful we have come through it together. We hope posting this helps others in a similar situation.

[@michellelane225]

I think you will inspire a lot of people . I would love to live somewhere like you. My partner is in recovery and he thinks you are doing a brilliant job ❤

[@marynimocks6791]

❤💔❤

[@karencatalano4349]

What a strong story,thank you for sharing,pray more people could hear you,and a beautiful story about you and your wife ,l love a Watching you videos,the progress your going on your property

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks so much 👍♥️

[@maureenjjkgvckmbmlmbosborn3358]

You're an inspiration Sam and I'm sure if anyone struggling with alcohol watches this video it could give them the strength to reach out like you did. Sending love to you, Becka and the kids, have loads of fun on your travels x

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks so much! We are loving it! In France now xx

[@PaulLucq]

Just came across your channel, and then saw this episode….I’ve been a member of AA for a good while now….appreciate your candor and listening to you share this, I could be at my home group listening to the same shares…reminds me that this program works….right on brother!

[@theirishhomestead]

I appreciate that! Thank you

[@thevigarfeeling]

Hi, we only saw this video now. Just want to say well done for talking about it. This was very brave. If it helps anyone it would be amazing. Again well done very heartfelt 😊

[@theirishhomestead]

Aww thanks guys! Yeah we hope it helps anyone who suffers with an addiction. Where are you guys now? We have made it to France finally xx

[@lindajames7083]

Your story is so common and you should be very proud to have realised that you needed help. It’s funny isn’t it that alcohol is an acceptable poison that ruins so many lives. Finding that place inside you that starts the healing process is from God (whoever your God is). Good luck to you and your family on your adventures 🇬🇧🇬🇧🙏🙏🙏

[@theirishhomestead]

It sadly a very common story and such a shame so many don't get help. Your right that alcohol is not recognised as a drug by most people. I just hope putting this out there helps at least one person seek out support. Sam & Becky xx

[@Semi0ffGrid7]

What a great video! I have always struggled with addiction and now my son, it's slavery!

[@theirishhomestead]

There is help around, I didn't find it till I'd burnt my life to the ground, its in the moments of utter despair that the magic happens

[@barbaralam3778]

So proud of you for sharing and seeing you and your family being where you are today ❤️❤️ love watching your videos and growing family and the awesome Homestead

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you so much!!

[@janetjones9952]

Thanks. I am helping a friend with chronic health problems who is also an alcoholic. Your video encourages me to continue to feel it is worthwhile helping her and her family.

[@theirishhomestead]

So nice to hear this Janet. It's not always easy putting yourself out there on social media when your being vulnerable but it makes us feel good to know it's helping people as that was the purpose of the video. Take care & we hope your friend gets through it ❤️ Becky & Sam

[@WildatHeart123]

I hope this video goes viral, so many people would benefit from hearing you speak about your experience as an alcoholic and then seeing you now, looking so healthy and happy. I wouldn’t go so far as to say that your experience is universal, but we all have our challenges. Instead of pretending everything is fine we should own our truth as this is the first step to mastering our challenges. I don’t they ever go away but we can stop them from taking away our lives.

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks for that lovely message. Yes we hope it helps even a few people out there. 🤞♥️

[@TheMaxX70]

8:00 So incredibly proud of you Sam and your beautiful Rebecca is a diamond. Thoroughly enjoying your journey. Live your lives to the fullest… you only get one life. Stay strong. Big hugs 🤗 xxx

[@theirishhomestead]

Aww thanks Maxine xxx

[@wanderinwilds]

Hi Sam, well done for speaking out like you have it’s very brave and hopefully someone will watch this video that was in your position years ago and call you for help or reach out to you in the comments. I went to AA with my sister once but unfortunately she didn’t want to go back, you can’t force people like you say. She was dealing with a lot of bad things that happened to her and it was her way of forgetting and sleeping. She’s gone now 😢 💔but I really hope you can save someone by speaking out. Enjoy Europe, see things with your eyes wide open and take in the beauty 😍 Lake Annecy is stunning if you get the chance pop over there. Just subbed to your channel. ❤ Debs and Mark xxx

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks so much Debs & Mark. It's definitely not an easy path and so sad to hear about your sister that's so sad. We are excited to finally get to Europe and Lake Annecy is on the list. Thanks for the support of our channel It's appreciated. Sam & Becky

[@marypower8009]

I adore your videos, I can smell the the dust & dirt hear the mechines and most of all feel your kindness. The couple who built together stay together.

[@theirishhomestead]

Wow, thank you

[@alpinejim3537]

Hi sam james from your meetings, enough love bro 💪💪💪💪💪💪💪🤙🌅

[@andrewsprason1223]

Hello from Australia. On ya mate you are a champion. Look forward to more vlogs…

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks 😊 our first subscriber from Australia! We feel chuffed! Thanks for supporting us! Sam & Becky

[@sandratownley3252]

What an inspirational video you have produced. I wish it could be shown to all the poor souls who are living their lives in despair atm. God Bless you .

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you. I hope it somehow finds it's way to the people who need it.

[@Trish-Dan]

Thanks for sharing 👍

[@theirishhomestead]

No problem, and thanks for watching 👍

[@jeancondit4031]

I'm so proud to call you my son your a very special individual and I couldn't be more proud of you xx enjoy your journey with bec euan and boo I will miss you all very much keep in touch xxx all my love mum xxxx

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks Mum. Love you ❤

[@lyndi8196]

So moved by your story so very brave

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you for the support Lyndi. Sam & Becky.

[@Liz-hc4um]

Thanks so much for this Sam. I have so much I want to say to you about this; it’s something I spend a lot of time thinking about, for me personally and for those I help (I’m a retired clinical psychologist, a Mancunian too, living in Brittany) It’s existential… that is there are four truths that most people spend all of their time avoiding thinking about until they jump up and bite you on the arse. They are questions about our existence… you seem to be grappling with meaning of life, freedom, and isolation. Let me know if you’d ever fancy a chat about it… it’s hard to summarise in a brief comment. Either way this is an important (and very human) journey for you and one that many people don’t ever make. Sending good vibes. Liz.

[@theirishhomestead]

Hi Liz, Thanks for your reply. Yes, this life is a strange one, so many unexplored inner feelings. I would be happy to chat sometime. Back in manchester, i was talking and chairing meetings with other lost souls due to alcohol/drug addiction. I have formed amazing friendships since hitting emotional rock bottom, people you can be truly be open and honest with, I find being open with my feelings helps me and most importantly it helps others to see its ok to be vulnerable and to drop the ego. So many people wear masks just to go out of their front door, I'm just grateful I didn't die with the numerous suicide attempts because now all that pain is my strongest asset in helping someone else reach spiritual liberation (I'm not a religious person) I've definitely been to psychological hell but thanks to joining AA 7 years ago I no longer have a desire to block out the world with alcohol I'm so happy I can stand tall and take life as it comes, but I'm only human and need to communicate with others in order to stay alive and live happy. It's hard to get this amount of info across by message. it's easier talking. Shine on x Sam

[@jonnywoods9941]

Wow Sam you're an amazing man 😁 missing you arekid 👍😁

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks Jonny, miss you too pal.

[@chrisdagg5117]

AA will never let you be the Last the Lest and the lost ever again God bless

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks. 👍♥️

[@eddiemill4586]

Well done bro, if you're anytime up in North Scotland morayshire,and you need anything give me a shout love to meet you guys, Eddie & Maggie

[@theirishhomestead]

Hi guys. Thanks so much for the lovely message. We will let you know if we are heading to Scotland but for now it's south for some sunshine for us! Thanks for watching. Sam & Becky

[@theirishhomestead]

Hi guys. Thanks so much for the lovely message. We will let you know if we are heading to Scotland but for now it's south for some sunshine for us! Thanks for watching. Sam & Becky

[@eddyflanagan8867]

You are one brilliant family love your videos particularly the Irish ones. Can’t wait to for the next and next ❤❤❤😊😊😊 Dublin

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks so much, so kind of you Eddy. We are glad you're enjoying them. 👍

[@lieuwina]

I think you are a very brave person for talking about your struggle with alcohol and how you have fought it and conquered it. I think this can help many people and keep pushing on and you have this and I wish you the very best with your journey ahead and I am sure you with your beautiful family will conquer this and there is no need to be ashamed, I applaud you. Have a beautiful day.

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you. We have learnt so much, and speaking openly is important to us. Glad you appreciated the video. I hope it helps many people. ❤️

[@alisonwainwright9216]

Thank you so much for this, it truly is a life changer and it’s brilliant that you’re doing this. Enjoy your amazing journey and it’s thanks to you sis I’ve got my life back!!! I know she’ll tell me all about your travels ODAAT 🙏

[@theirishhomestead]

Thanks Alison, such a nice message and thanks for the support by watching. Sam & Becky

[@bill90405]

Good on you for sharing this very personal part of you. Sober 22.02.2016 here. One day at a time. Do you find meetings in rural Ireland? I tried a few here in Offaly but they are almost conducted in secret. Very different than in the US where i began my recovery. There is something very healing about the Irish countryside. You seem to have found your place. I hope your family gets to a place to share too. People need to understand that families need help with their recovery too.

[@theirishhomestead]

I'm finding meeting here, there are some that are word by mouth, but I always find the rooms if I look, not as many as the US and UK but it only takes 2 peeps for a meeting, the irish countryside is amazing

[@bill90405]

And now firefighter! What a circle you have made. You are an inspiration to those still out there! Cheers Sam!

[@kimselway4810]

So brave to speak out Sam this is so common in ex-service personnel 👍

[@stephenbolton9044]

Well done, great to hear how you’ve turned things around. A close family member has just started the journey with CA, supporting as best we can. Hoping the outcome is as positive as yours. Now subscribed to your channel - thank you

[@theirishhomestead]

I hope they stick with it as honestly its not an easy road, but it's a life changing road. They are lucky you're there to support them as it makes all the difference. . Thanks for supporting us. Sam.

[@CillianRangarsson-u2h]

I am in AA my self i am hoping of having a good go of the aa 12 steps

[@theirishhomestead]

Please do, it has been the best thing I ever did. If you need any help, please let me know. Sam.

[@chrisallswede8230]

Thank you for sharing your story and how it affected your wife and children too.

[@theirishhomestead]

No problem, hope it helps someone else out there.

[@michelledawtrey193]

Sam you are so amazing. Thank you for sharing❤

[@z9ski690]

Very powerful video, your honesty and ability to communicate is amazing.

[@theirishhomestead]

Glad you think so! Thank you. 👍

[@KatrinaEllis-q7j]

I have the up most respect for you SAM i did before while watching you in this video i thought he is a great genuine guy that works bloody hard ❤... My partner was a functionally alco and he was one of the most funniest men around with a quick tongue that could cut you dead and but had such quick wit he could command a room with it but on the other side he was bloody hard work and you never knew who u were going to get , he would NEVER admit he was a alco but he was a bloody good functionally one sadly i nursed him threw two bouts of throat cancer with dementia added in on top and he sadly died last march and i miss him terribly and wish i could have one minute with him to see what one i would get ....Thank you Sam for being so honest i know its not easy i wish you and your lovely family as much luck and success xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx kat

[@theirishhomestead]

Thank you Kat for those kind words and so sorry for the loss of your partner. He sounds like a top bloke. Bloody cancer! Scares the daylights out of me. Thanks for sharing your story and describing him so well, it's clear how much you loved him. Alcohol is great for some people but not so much for others. Things have never been better & thank goodness for AA. Take care & keep in touch ❤️

[@dieselpowerize]

Did you ever serve in The North of Ireland as a British Imperialist Soldier serving the Crown ?

[@theirishhomestead]

No I didn't.