HIGHS & LOWS | Vlog 3

[@TallGamer111]

You are so right Brook about not able to help someone until they want to be helped. Take it easy and try not to stress out too much. Were all thinking about you. My prayers are with you .

[@beth-9699]

So sorry Brooke...I will be praying for your brother and also your family. Hang in there and trust God to take care of this. Thanks for sharing...you're a great sister

[@thenorthshore6472]

You're not alone Brooke. My brother was addicted to opiates over 20 years. He lost it all too. Was once very prosperous, owned a business and beautiful home on the lake. He wouldn't listen to anyone or even respect the help or advice they gave him and it took some major tough love to wake him up as his kids were about to disown him and his wife about to file for divorce. That was 4 years ago and since he's clean and sober, finally realises his mistakes and is back at being prosperous and productive. Just keep doing what you do and know that these things happen and can change for the better on an instant. Try not to let it get you down. Your brother is very fortunate to have you for a sister!

[@SurvivalTheory]

It's a tough road for you. I've been down that same road. Hang in there. Thanks for sharing, keep up the good work!

[@mikehutson1713]

Brother you can do this..I was a user I had it bad for years . We unlocked something in us the very first time we did it. I quit in 2002 quiting dont come from words someone sez to you or some book..it comes from inside you..the power to quit comes from inside you so what you fall down get back in there and kill the monster..you can do this.one min.one hour one day at at a time .stop thinking about it about it starves the monster .it seems to feed on our fears and our weakness.so stay strong..you have takein the first step even if you have to craw come on there ain't no easy way out come on now ..come on man you got things to do...

[@danbasham9207]

He has to choose his path. He has to make that choice every day for the rest of his life. It's all on him. 28 years sober and I still make that daily choice. Hoping the best for all of you.

[@Opa773]

I don’t know you and I am impressed .

[@MultiHairypotter]

Amen Dan Basham, I’m with you brother !! 1/15/82

[@cherylt8590]

Sending many prayers and thoughts Brooke and wishing all the best for your brother and hopefully things will work out for the better soon,and sorry your having to go through this difficult time ...

[@buckeyecodger3448]

Brooke, Thank you for sharing this part of your life. I sincerely hope you and your brother get through this difficult time. Take care

[@sharileeengle5204]

You said you were going to start filming different and I say "you go girl!" A big grandma hug for sharing your life. I'm a widow and don't get out so I enjoyed traveling with you and even the train. I will pray for your brother.

[@angelaharper4527]

Thank you for sharing. It's a difficult thing to deal with and it won't happen till they are ready. God bless you and your family!

[@dottietaboot4916]

It breaks my heart to watch this when at the time I'm watching this I know that he succumbed to his addictions and is with his maker now - I'm so sorry x

[@ckyrooster]

Sorry to hear, sweetheart. Life is a dance, between order and chaos. It is up to him to learn how. Ultimately he is in Gods hands.

[@andersen9243]

Sending positive thoughts to you and your family. Keep your head up and your spirit higher. 🖤

[@susanlawless1168]

Prayers up for him!!

[@christopherdopp8307]

Your love and compassion Brooke for your brother says so much about you.

[@DonnaConrady]

I know this is comparing apples and oranges but after smoking menthols for 15 stinkin' years the only way I successfully quit was to do it for myself and to do it cold turkey. I gratefully took words of encouragement offered but I was the only one who could do it. And once I understood that it became a little easier. You can't do this for him; all you can do is love him and encourage him. I love ya and send tons of positive energy your way. Thank you for sharing this with us. You are my hero, Brooke. Love ya, Donna

[@vicrussell9496]

I know exactly what your going thru, I had a son he was only 35. He struggled for yrs. Drugs alcohol in an out of jail, They dont see how we struggle with them for them. Wanting for them to make the right choices For some reason they just cant make it work. In 2014 my son hung himself in my back yard./ IThe drugs alcohol constant depression Changes the mental chemicals of the brain, they cant help themselves anmore. Trust in God Brook no marrer what He Knows Their heart and undestands Their sick ! Love ya vicki,. Your familys in my [prayers

[@slogomary]

I am so sorry for your loss..even in sobriety, the chemical imbalances in the brain wreak havoc..i hope you are in a better place, now..at peace, knowing that were there for him, and that his sad choices were no fault of your own..💜

[@AllThingsClarice]

Going through this right now and it’s like a living hell. Won’t say too much here but it’s hard and I send you much love and hugs hun 🙏🏻❤️

[@betsycooke8983]

I am so very sorry for the loss of your Son! Same happened to my Dear Boy age 31 12/19/2017 he passed. I have learned a lot about his mental health condition after his death, unfortunately. I still carry much guilt for as parents we want to fix our kids injuries. The sad part is, we can't always fix the unseen injuries nor knowing the pain they endure. I have learned people with depression, bi- polar, schizoaffective disorder, mood disorders tend to use drugs to self medicate because the meds Rx that are prescribed make them feel like zombies without having emotions. I miss my boy every second of every day as I know you miss your Boy too!! I am deeply sorry. The day Brooke posted this video was January 16th which is my Son's Birthday!"They are our ANGELS!!!!!!"

[@andreaclark9398]

I’m so sorry to see this and hear from another comment that he lost his fight with substance abuse. Just tonight a couple of really honest videos of yours and Dave’s popped up. Thank you for sharing your struggles as well as your joys and dreams. Wish I could give you a big hug Sister. So thankful you have the Lord for your daily comfort and strength. The more of your videos I watch I can’t get over how similar our paths and locations have been in life. I hope someday our paths do cross in person and I get to meet this strong resilient woman. God bless you my friend. Keep up the good fight of faith and keep loving life to the full. And thank you again for touching my heart tonight with this honest and raw video.

[@Hashbitnitwit]

It's been 10 years and tons of heartache for my bro too. I think he's almost done. Will anyone at Big Pharm pay for all of the misery and deaths caused? Hell no. Good luck to your brother.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

thank you

[@lynetteluksan1315]

I have a daughter that has mental issues and the first year was in the hospital 8 times. My heart goes out to you. Stay strong and lean on the Lord.

[@clareswares1]

Same, ours is enhancing her mental issues with drugs. Living homeless although we offered a bit of help but hers us explosive anger. And an extreme narcissist it's sad. We have her son with us which is second nature for him since I've watched him since 3 mo. Old when she was more with it and working During Covid I feel she just gave up.

[@vianonamitchell4114]

Watching these old videos again sure stir up some intense feelings. This was a rough one considering what has transpired. Love you Brooke. So glad for your resilience ! I search for the right words but there really aren't any that seem adequate. It just comes down to praying about it.....seems like the only right thing!

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

yes

[@windowclean100]

We all love you on this channel I hope he gets the help that he needs

[@jss27560]

It’s very hard dealing with people with mental health and addiction issues.As you pointed out at the end, he has to want to get better and until he does there is nothing that you can do.Good luck.

[@lisaarcher6091]

Thank you Brooke for sharing such a personal part of your family's lives. Will be keeping ALL of you in prayer.

[@lazz3159]

As hard as it is, this is what families do. We love them and support them as best we can. We cry with them, we yell at them but with out pause we never leave them. Thank you for being his family unconditionally.

[@faithclifford5893]

Brooke, I feel so bad for your situation at hand. I'm praying for you all. You are not alone.

[@jerryvincent8402]

Any day is a good start. God bless you and the fact your helping him.🇺🇸🐻

[@trikywu]

Brooke, I'm so sorry your brother was lost to this illness. I know it's been a few years, but I see how much you tried to help. There's nothing else one can do. It was up to him. Sending you love.

[@KCSmith1]

No words grirl. Just compassion, empathy and prayers.

[@jantefft2442]

Thank you for sharing a different side of your life. We all have demons that we must face. Some folks just get lost and chose to go

[@jantefft2442]

In the wrong direction and we can't stop that as much as we would like to, very difficult for everyone that loves them. My heart is with you in such a difficult time. Blessed Be, May God Be With You and Your family. Jan

[@chrisblevins5143]

As a recovering addict, you're spot on. I too lost everything. I was homeless, sleeping in my car. Miserable existence. And I made the choice that I wasn't going to let addiction destroy more of my life. I didn't have any support to speak of, and in a way I'm glad I didn't. As much as you love someone, you can't fix everything for them. They need to want it for themselves. Just passed ten years sober, I'm successful again. I'm happy again. And I made that happen myself, and I'm very proud of that. You can support someone going through addiction without enabling them, love comes in many forms. I know this is an old video, but I hope everything has turned around for your brother.

[@marymarysmarket3508]

I'm so sorry about your brother. May God save his soul. July 2020

[@jeffnotti9932]

Whoa.. this is really heavy.. I cant imagine.. (well maybe i can) I will keep you all in prayer... OMG Grand Rapids. I drove my friends TV truck to GR and did a web cast with Jason Derulo at white cap stadium. Wild. Wow what a let down.. I am sorry to see that you have to go trough this. He is in complete denial. The sequence in the car when you picked him up was startling. I will pray. J

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

thanks Jeff

[@redcloud6273]

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family 🙏. God bless

[@mossypants7983]

Not just everyday, but every moment is a new opportunity. I love your channel, and your adventures. All we can be is an example. You are an inspiration to so many. Take comfort in that you have done your best, and so many look up to you. I hope he beats the odds. Just keep being you.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

thank you!

[@thingmom807]

Thank you so much for sharing your story about this! My father is a recovering addict and my sister is an active alcoholic. I wasnt there during my fathers addiction but my sister, ive been trying so hard to help her. I have always been the oldest sibling so that makes me the mother sister in a way. so I take it very hard when they fall down and relapse. Hearing your story, i'm going to try my hardest to let it go and just support them when they need me and not push them into rehabs. Thank you dearly for this real life story

[@judyschepp8748]

for many years So my heart goes out to you and yours. Thankfully we had a much better outcome than you did, at least so far. He has been sober for a year and a half. We hope it will continue. Anyway, my dearest Brooke you are not alone. Love you❤️Take care🤗🥰

[@grantlee459]

Wow what a day you had. Your the best sister a brother could have .everything you said is true all up to him.. To much hustle and bustle in the city .Will pray for him.Thanks for sharing and God bless.

[@wishingwelladventures]

Addiction is a family problem with no set of answers. He is lucky to have such a loving and gracious sister! Stay brave and bold sister! You got this.

[@wishingwelladventures]

Big Southern girl hug!

[@dsans8211]

Brooke, he’s blessed to have a sister that cares and is willing to help. Don’t give up on him, what he’s going through is a tough monkey to get off his back. Many, MANY people are dealing with Opioid addiction. I just lost my brother to a stroke and wish to God, I had spent more time with him. Be there for him and relish the time you share...whether it’s good times or bad times. Your a good Sister and he’ll realize your value and Love.

[@simplyrise5217]

Thumbs up to you for been a supportive sister. Prayer to your brother and you too Brooke. Peace be with you and your family. Thanks for sharing your personal side. Times we have to let go and there is nothing you could do but pray. Bless you.

[@Myn6211]

Brooke, there are a million words that I could say but none of them will heal a broken heart. I honour your courage in sharing this heart rending situation with all of us.

[@markgreer6921]

I truly hope for him and you he does make it. I'm a thrift store and yardsale and fleamarket and auction shopper my self. Goodluck Brooke

[@helloj56]

Wow, Broke. My heart goes out to you and your family. I admire you for all that you do. Not only for your brother. But for us watching your curageousness in all that you do. You're inspiring in so many levels. I just love your beautiful soul and spirit. Big hugs, J

[@northwoodsrat6686]

So sorry , Brooke . Glad you share with us not just the good times of your life , but also the sad ones too , because we care . It just recently hit me how hard it is to watch someone you know go through rehab , so I have some small idea of how this must be affecting you as well . Will def keep you all in my prayers . Your brother in Christ .

[@lovebikesmustride]

We all choose our own paths in life, the toughest part can be accepting the path others have chosen for themselves and loving them from a distance . Stay strong

[@grant7431]

I have a brother with depression so this struck a big chord with me. You love your family but sometimes all we get in return are their brick walls. All we can do is be there and hope they eventually see that they have to want to change. Thank you sharing this vlog with us.

[@sunluvr59]

It’s so hard to want to help people who aren’t ready to help themselves. I hope he is able to turn his life around soon. He is lucky to have such a loving sister. Prayers for you both.

[@ColleenW2019]

Thank you for this video. It''s easy to think, when you see videos people put out that show only the good and fun stuff, that they are actually living a real life that is full of challenges. Being able to watch a video like this shows us that your life is not all fun times, adventures in hiking and camping, and running off to exotic locales. You're coping with some really tough sh** on a daily basis. Blessings to you and your family.

[@jpwhiddon]

You are doing what is right, supporting him when he decides he needs help. Maybe through your strength, he will see the light.

[@amberjohnson8162]

There is always hope of another chance to recover. I’m 13 yrs sober after many relapses. I would not of picked him up from the treatment. But you are a good sister that took him there. Never give up- always love him. Never enable. The family is always in just as much pain as the addict. We are just so blind to see the truth. We just feel that everyone would be better off if we were dead. Not many make it. But I’m glad I made it after many attempts. My brother never gave up on me. So thankful. Now after 13 yrs- everything is restored. God is good- even when we don’t see the road ahead. Don’t give up. 💜

[@pianogalRN]

Very sad to look back at this now; may God give you comfort - and peace.

[@thejunkjourney2650]

My thoughts and prayers are with you and all of your family. It was nice to see your baby "girl in the woods" woods. Hang in there. Many people support you, and you always have God! You are never really alone.

[@717sonny]

Prayer's to you and your brother ♥ Thank you for helping him, you are a loving sister.

[@henryrudolph1952]

Hi from New Zealand, That's what family do, they support one another. You can only do so much and the rest is up to him. Don't give him money you are enabling his habit. All the best, thank for sharing with the world.

[@williampysell2819]

Brooke, thank you for having the courage to share this terrible ongoing experience in your life! You are a woman of such determination and strength! Hope and pray that your brother is able to generate some of those qualities in his life so he is able to follow through on his "attempt" to rehab from the drugs and alcohol addictions! Love you!

[@HikerGal1]

You are a wonderful sister and person. Always pray for your brother and never give up hope.

[@a.b.d.3974]

I am binge watching your shows I am heartbroken your brother succumb to his addiction. God bless you and your family. You were a wonderful sister supporting him.

[@calvinboondoggle2564]

Best wishes for you and your brother, Brooke. Had my best friend go through rehab twice. Second time was a charm. Two years later and he's still hanging tough day after day. Hoping for a miracle for y'all, too! ATB to you and yours always!!!

[@lesdrinkwater490]

Brooke, Thank you for sharing such a personal experience. My heart goes out to you, your brother and your families.

[@americangal49]

Wow...I am a fairly new subscriber and have probably watched a total of 40 vlogs including Bushradical. One of the first was when you announced your poor brother’s death. I now see the background and your love and support for your brother along with your frustration. I know exactly what you went thru. My parents and all 3 brothers were alcoholics. Our family was classic dysfunctional and filled with domestic violence. ALL died young. You were a good sister to your brother. You are so right about not being able to help them until they help themselves. Your brother is at peace now. Thank you for sharing such a personal part of your life.

[@marciaolson4878]

Prayers Brook for a new life for your brother.💕🙏🏼🙏🏼💕 Yes, it is up to him.

[@sandrabrooks8785]

I'm sorry you had to go through this. Prayers for you and the family, but prayers mostly for your brother 🙏

[@christiandaugherty1267]

Thank you for this illuminating insight into your life. It felt heavy, not at all like your normal, and that's all the more reason to celebrate it. Addiction is a force to be reckoned with and a shame that far too many hide away. The only way to confront it, is to shine a light on the problem. Few people are brave enough to air out their problems, when these very problems are what makes us human and connects us all. You did an excellent job showing a glimps of a despair but also how to meet that very dispair with grace. You take care ma'am. Carrying you and your family in my heart.

[@RuthieH_62]

Very honest and heartfelt vlog this week Brooke, I think we all have someone we know or love that is going through a similar situation. All we can do is support them until they get through it or we give all we have to give. He's lucky to have a sister that supports him like you do, just don't let him take the smile from your face :)

[@MyDenali-pv5nh]

"Do you want me to get help, or do you want me to hate you guys while doing it?" Passing on the blame. He's lucky he has people who care. I hope He's strong enough to eventually get help. Kudos to those that are strong enough to slay the beast.

[@dianesossoman1626]

I'm setting here with tears streaming down my face. I am praying for your brother and your family. I wished that I still had my brother(different situation). I miss him so much. Sending a hug you way. God Bless you and your family.

[@onlinechristiancounselorsa1024]

Brooke you are so right; as much as you want to; you can't make it better for your brother and it HURTS! I lost my brother to alcohol and drugs. I was 14, he was 17. We lived in Farmington at the time near Detroit. He was my best friend and you never recover from that. My prayers are with you! Do not ever wonder what you might be doing wrong, or what more you can do! I am also from Michigan, and I'm older than you, but you remind me so much of myself when I watch your journey and I am amazed of your internal strength. You are awesome!

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

thanks so much and sorry about your brother!

[@lisamerriweather6144]

BROOKE THANK YOU FOR SHARING SOMETHING SO PERSONAL , I PRAY THAT GOD KEEPS YOR STRONG AND THAT YOUR BROTHER GETS THE WILL AND DESIRE TO WANT TO CHANGE FOR THE BEST , GOD BLESS YOU BROOKE !

[@cliffordwright1603]

Good for you Brooke. At least you were there to help your brother. Many people would let them go on their own. You will have no regrets in the future. If your brother overcomes his addiction he can say his sister was there for him. Very proud of you. I’m sorry for what you are going through.

[@soursugar3253]

Its hard. On the person trying to heal and on those who love them. Eye overstand this type of situation. Take it a day at a time. Much love!

[@squarepenny6946]

That's the reality...many different struggles families face. Heartbreaking at times. My family had a strong Christian mother, who is now in heaven. She brought us to church even through the worst of situations. You're there for your brother and the rest of your family because you love them. You did well. I'm proud of you.

[@jerryderr8043]

We're all routing for you and your brother! Bless you all!

[@johncoughennower6260]

I have the up most respect for you sharing that story with us.....thank you we all have our challenges in life....get out and be happy

[@bettysclassctohightopvanca4451]

Praying! I know it’s hard Brooke to watch ur brother go through this. Looks like ur doing a great job tho speaking truth to him. Tough love is difficult but important. Hang in there my friend❣️ May God give u strength & wisdom as u continue to go thru this challenge with ur brother. God is with u thru all the ups & downs. Take care Brooke!!!

[@janetwithers7427]

I am sorry you have to ho through this with your brother. It is very painful to see those you love suffer and struggle. He is responsible for his life. Only he can help himself, and professionals, when he will accept help. He sounds a ways from helping himself. You are brave and caring to go out in ice storm. May he recognize that one day. This is a glimpse into how you can be so joyful most of the time. Those who know deep pain can experience deep joy. Thank you for sharing such a personal matter. I will pray for your brother. 😺💞

[@janejaurigui9480]

Being a mom and grandmother we tend to feel sorry and not be able to say NO !!! We are their enabling love ones

[@pamelawineinger3337]

So sorry you and your family are going thru this. I have a 34yr old son who has had addiction problems also. He had been clean for over 10 years and last year he fell off the wagon. He is however going to go to inpatient treatment this month. fingers crossed. Thank you for sharing it helps others who are going through the same thing. And you are very correct the addict is the one who has to make that choice. Hang in there

[@klayscott1303]

Sorry Brooke, you were so hopeful- keep the faith!!! Prayers for you and your brother!

[@whtwolff658]

Prayers for your brothers recovery. Im a 60yr old recovering addict. The disease is real & if we ever think we've got it whipped, we'll get complacent and relapse✌❤👣🐾

[@saskrockhoundoutdoors9865]

You are dealing with this issue very well, trying to help an adult sibling is incredibly difficult and as you said it's up to them. Praying for you both.

[@harlowpinson5678]

This is some fine documentary video making Brooke. Thank you so much for sharing this part of you, a part that we normally would not see. Takes a lot of courage. For what it's worth, the gentleman who spoke in the Toastmasters meeting reminded me so much of a friend and Lutheran Pastor who passed away this last year, and did bring a smile amongst this difficult time. He was so full of life and vitality. I know we all are hoping the best for your brother and your family. Thank you.

[@therealgirlinthewoods]

My friends at toastmasters are very inspiring and talented folks!

[@Uniquelyyours1]

I'm so sorry, Brooke. Sending you all positive thoughts.

[@suesherman8277]

Your meal looked so delicious that will be my breakfast in an hour. Cut up what I had and ready. And Junior Mints ❤️ my go to as well. I giggle at how joyful and witty you are In you’re “tubies” . Look forward to each outdoor adventure- build and love of life! Great family and picked up watching Mick. Learning process, but doing fantastic for 18! Unbelievable You need him to get PO Box so supplies for pantry and pocket! You and Dave did a great job and proud moments. Prayers for your brother accepting and wanting help. You’re a great sis. 400+ videos?? Brooke😳, I am going through and trying to catch up!! Believe I’ve watched all BR, and working on yours. Your flower garden WOW💞so beautiful! & tons of love with dedication. Catch you on next - - She Gone🙃

[@fp3359]

Hi Brooks, I dearly admire your efforts concerning your brother; take my hat off. Please stay on the bright side with Dave, kids & pets. Greetz and love from Holland.

[@Glenonica1]

It really is up to him. I have a brother that never wanted rehab and we never mentioned it or suggested it. He's now in a full-time care facility where he is slowly slipping away with alcohol related dementia. It's a hard road for the family but at some point you just have to let it go and pray nothing really bad happens to him more than what already has. He'll blame and condemn but that's what an addict does. Live your life and that's pretty much all you can do until he makes the life changing decision.

[@Faith5883]

Praying for you Brooke, and that your brother will have the desire to turn his life around and overcome this addiction by the Most Highs power and His will be done. That your brother will be delivered from these chains and set free.

[@voodooromeo8749]

I'm heartbroken for you kiddo, family can be difficult. You are strong and have a great life, things will be fine

[@concernedcitizen3651]

Hey Brooke...I am so sorry you have to go through this tough time. We all wish you and your brother well. Please know we are thankful that you share the low and the high points as this is our reality also. Peace to you and yours and dont forget to get outside and get Happy! Have a great weekend Four feathers....

[@lennyracine9775]

Wishing you & your brother the best. Prayers......

[@markgreer6921]

Sometimes a lesson in hard love is what some people need

[@pamaladarsow2763]

My son is in rehab now , can’t count the times over the years . He’s been on the streets for years . Never give up on him. I will be praying for you both , God Bless

[@martijnfransen9933]

take care girl.. you are the best.. like you said motivation is everything.. you can only try to help him i love you for tying to do so

[@kateannkippy37]

Awesome Home & Trees you planted in your childhood..🌲🌲🎄

[@lonanakken1688]

The toll addiction takes on a family is brutal. I hope your brother finds his way, but more than that I hope that you and the rest of his family can find peace while he figures it out. I know from personal experience that if it was a matter of what "we" want, our loved one would be well and living a life free of addiction and free of the problems that led them to this point. But you are right that your brother has to want to change his situation if he is to beat this. That doesn't mean giving up hope that he finds his way. Just know that taking care of yourself and supporting the others affected is the best thing for you and them. Draw strength from the good things in your life. Wishing you the best.

[@ruthiewrangler9864]

I totally get what your going through. It's so hard being on the co-dependent side. I know you are a believer and the song, "Farther along" comes to mind. We don't understand why. Stay strong. Sending prayers your way. I believe you just helped someone by sharing this that you will never know. The lord works in mysterious ways. Thanks Brooke.

[@Dark_Nemesis4300]

Though I'm English, my dad worked in Grand Rapids for years. Awesome to see it again! This was tempered by the sad story of your brother. You are so right that you cannot help him until he is willing to help himself. And sadly, he may never reach that stage.

[@jeanettedellicarpini5616]

Prayers for all. It’s a hard road for family to. Draw lines and boundaries for yourself.

[@davidhopson2004]

Prayers are with y'all my friend. God Bless you and your family. Love y'all

[@NancyH_from_Missouri]

My prayers are with you. It's hard when you care more about them than they care about themselves..

[@venetajeffrey7767]

I know exactly what you mean. So sad, isn't it?

[@annmoore7126]

Hang in there Brooke, the road to recovery is long. Prayers for your brother and your family. ❤

[@thomaswhelan2483]

That was tough to watch! But of course, very real. I think you did the right thing to share it.