Navigating the roundabout of addiction and recovery | Michelle Weidenbenner | TEDxEustis

[@allwiseelvisisme]

I appreciate how Michelle talked about the stigma of addiction. It's time we change our perspectives and offer help instead of judgment.

[@rebeccadcarl]

Praying for the best outcome may seem cliché, but it's a powerful tool in supporting someone's journey towards recovery.

[@nicholaskolokotrone]

Addiction is a complex disease that affects not only the person struggling but also their entire family. Michelle's talk sheds light on the challenges families face and the need for a comprehensive and compassionate approach

[@angel_rai]

Michelle's son experienced a relapse, which is a common occurrence on the road to recovery. It's a reminder that setbacks happen, and what matters is the continued support and belief in the person's ability to overcome! Thank you for sharing that with us, as so many people don't offer the grace and support needed in the face of a relapse.

[@gavin-morris]

Society needs to educate itself about addiction and recovery. By raising awareness and promoting understanding, we can collectively combat the stigma and provide better support systems

[@allwiseelvisisme]

💯💯💯

[@vivianpatgreen]

I think this talk makes a really strong point as to how nothing happens in isolation, we're all connected, even when we don't feel it.

[@iambabypink]

i think this is like the first ever honest account of what recovery REALLY means. Thank you Michelle

[@dianalorenaarevalosuarez]

My heart goes out to the innocent bystanders in the addiction circle. Innocent children who often have no idea why there's no food on the table or in the fridge.

[@oliviaweidenbenner1551]

That’s MY Mom!! Love you mom! 👏👆🎉💕🎊🥳

[@MomsLettingGo]

Aw. Thank you for watching, sweet Girl! Love you too.

[@vg1403]

❤

[@SabrinaSterlingGA]

YOUR MOM IS AWESOME 🎉❤

[@frasernicholson8509]

Addie and her sister, such a devastating impact addiction can have on children... It's very much a stark reminder of the need for urgent and supportive care to break this cycle.

[@alberteshoeinfine]

Addiction is a real issue that affects children too. We need to address it and support those going through it.

[@onurgalbas]

Her dedication to her son's recovery journey is truly inspiring.

[@kogordanuk]

It's beautiful

[@aliyahrhodes]

Yeah it's amazing.

[@alannamyers]

I can't imagine the pain and struggle of raising grandchildren due to addiction. It's a testament to Michelle's strength and resilience. We need better resources and interventions to prevent these situations from happening in the first place.

[@shureedouglas8682]

absolutely

[@MomsLettingGo]

Yes! Interventions and preventions are needed!

[@ryandanielw]

You did great. Made me cry.

[@MomsLettingGo]

It's such a blessing that we are 'here' in this story, we're in the JOYFUL part. Love you!

[@steeveleibold531]

Michelle's call to end the stigma surrounding addiction is essential. We must change our perceptions and educate ourselves about the disease to support individuals struggling with addiction and their families effectively....

[@kogordanuk]

Definitely. I know things would have been way easier for me if it felt okay to talk about it

[@kogordanuk]

Well maybe. Looking back on it some things are hard to tell if anything would have made it better

[@harrietgomez5859]

Michelle's realization that her judgments and assumptions were hindering progress is a powerful lesson for all of us. It's important to examine our own biases and preconceived notions about addiction to truly support our loved ones

[@theandreroseisme]

I lost my brother to addiction, and it tore our family apart. It's not as simple as just being on their team. Sometimes tough choices have to be made to protect ourselves and our sanity.

[@onurgalbas]

It often feels impossible to know what the right decision is.

[@MomsLettingGo]

I'm sorry for your loss. You have my deepest sympathies. That's so hard. I had to remove myself from my son's life for a period of time to keep my 'peace' so I can relate to 'taking care of myself' first. We're not good to anyone else if we can't stay well.

[@kogordanuk]

As someone who has battled addiction, I can relate to the roundabout analogy. It's a vicious cycle that's hard to break. But with the right support and understanding, recovery is possible. Never lose hope.

[@CaseReynolds]

I hope you've gotten to the easy side of your battle 💙

[@kogordanuk]

@@CaseReynolds Thank you. I don't know if it ever gets easy but some days are less tough than others. Michelle really gets it right with the roundabout metaphor.

[@MomsLettingGo]

@@kogordanuk Thanks for taking the time to watch this video and comment. I'm sending you a hug for your continued 'work' in your recovery. It's not easy, for sure.

[@pattibevilacqua8389]

You are a HERO! Stigma is dangerous. Maybe we need to experience being stigmatized to understand it. Thanks for leading the charge!

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you for taking the time to watch this video and comment. Please feel to share it with anyone who could benefit from understanding how to help an addicted loved one. I used to have these 'stigma' thoughts so I understand how it happens. But once you're the one stigmatized, it changes total perspective!

[@High-Pink]

It is dangerous for sure, the feeling of isolation and shame attached can be worse than the actual addiction.

[@TooChatForYou]

Trauma therapy and emotional support play a crucial role in the recovery process for both individuals struggling with addiction and their families. It's encouraging to hear how Michelle embraced these resources to provide a safe and healing environment for her granddaughters

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you for watching and commenting. I'm still learning every day. It's such a long journey.

[@kogordanuk]

Absolutely. It didn't matter how many times I got sober until I dealt with the trauma it was just a matter of time before I went back

[@CaseReynolds]

Yes, I think trauma therapy is very important. Not just for addicts but for anyone who has trauma and let's face it - we all have it.

[@CaseReynolds]

Michelle's unwavering belief in her son's ability to recover is commendable. Her commitment to providing resources, encouragement, and empathy is an excellent example for us all

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you. That means a lot. I try.

[@odysseasmallios1570]

Absolutely. I think it takes a very high level of faith to maintain that level of commitment

[@knockitdownagain]

I have a lot of admiration for this woman being so candid about her journey. The stigma is still very real and I admire how dedicated she is to trying to change it.

[@IAmTheRealSeeker]

It is very admirable, I hope more people can adopt her attitude.

[@sadfacesforall]

Absolutely. It takes a lot of courage to open up about stuff like this

[@michelleweidenbenner6509]

Thank you. We must talk about it openly if we want to stop the stigma. Thank you for taking the time to watch this video and comment.

[@TheSoundOffNow]

Michelle's story is inspiring, but it's important to remember that not everyone with addiction has a happy ending. Recovery is a lifelong battle, and relapses happen. We should support without having unrealistic expectations or putting untoward pressure on the other person.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Exactly. Addiction is a disease, and like other diseases ... people die. It's a battle every day. Thanks for taking the time to listen to this talk and comment.

[@kasperean]

Michelle's decision to educate herself and her grandchildren about the neuroscience of addiction is a crucial step in breaking the cycle of shame and abandonment and also just helping them to understand on a deeper level.

[@deanskyler]

Yes I think it speaks to something quite practical, approaching it from that point of view

[@xavierilorenzo]

Yes, so amazing that Michelle wanted to educate herself deeper in this way

[@racheldavis4863]

As a sister of recovering addiction, I have felt all of this first hand. Both of my younger siblings are in recovery and have been sober over a year! Recovery can happen!

[@MomsLettingGo]

Hi Rachel. Yes, you 'get' it. Congratulations to your brothers. It's not an easy feat. Thank you for support them and commenting here. If you know of anyone who would benefit from this HOPE message, please share. Hugs.

[@oakleysienna]

This gives me hope for my brothers

[@MomsLettingGo]

@@oakleysienna We hold to HOPE. Look for it. Learn about addiction so you can be a HOPE BUILDER for your brothers. Thanks for commenting here.

[@High-Pink]

This is really positive! Thank you for sharing

[@Pixel-Lord]

That's so awesome! Hope they stay strong on their journey ❤❤

[@HoneydripBurn]

This talk hit close to home for me. My sister struggled with addiction, and it was a rollercoaster of emotions for our family. It's crucial to reach out for help, not only for the addict but also for the loved ones affected by their journey.

[@TheBestUnicornHunter]

I'm grateful to Michelle for sharing her story and advocating for a more compassionate and understanding approach to addiction. Her words have the power to inspire change and bring hope to those affected by this disease.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you for watching and taking the time to comment. I appreciate your encouragement.

[@Me-lolahernandez]

This talk really shows the immense impact grandparents can have in raising their grandchildren when parents are unable to fulfil their responsibilities. I have so much admiration and respect for people like Michelle who step up in this way.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Hi Lola - I'm sure you would have done the same. Thank you for your comment and taking the time to watch this message.

[@xavierilorenzo]

It is incredibly when they step up the way Michelle has. Even in familis where parents are fulfilling the responsibilities, the added support of grandparents is so valuable.

[@MomsLettingGo]

@@xavierilorenzo There are millions of grandparents doing this everywhere.

[@gerdefrederick]

This talk gives me hope that change is possible, even in the darkest situations. We just need to see the person beyond their struggles.

[@AzimuthMindspace]

That's a lovely way of putting it. I think it is those dark times that make for the most opportunity to change.

[@allwiseelvisisme]

Yup, and remember who they were before the addiction

[@MomsLettingGo]

Learning how to motivate a person to 'change' isn't easy but it starts with listening to understand.

[@IamLegoMan]

Her daughter-in-law's comment about feeling no longer ashamed really got to me. It's a reminder that support and acceptance can make all the difference in someone's recovery journey. 🤗

[@Notthefootykevinrooney]

This was a beautiful part of the talk

[@livingclear5028]

I love how Michelle emphasized the importance of letting go of the need to be right and focusing on connecting. It's a powerful message about compassion and support. ❤

[@DeliriousGentleman]

Yes, it's a brilliant part of her approach.

[@shaquille.oatmeal9576]

The importance of empathy and understanding cannot be overstated. It's vital to support and empower individuals struggling with addiction instead of shaming them

[@MomsLettingGo]

Yes! I agree. Thank you for taking time to watch this video and comment.

[@deanskyler]

Yes it's important to support and it's also important to help explain to those who might not understand what's really going on with an addicted person.

[@josuelepiere]

This talk challenges the idea of 'tough love' and advocates for a more compassionate approach. It reminds us that supporting individuals struggling with addiction requires understanding, not abandonment

[@MomsLettingGo]

Yes! You nailed it. I just wish that 'supporting our loved one' was that easy. It takes work to understand how to do this.

[@Flipflopflipflop]

I've seen addiction destroy families firsthand, and it's devastating. We need better education and awareness to prevent these situations and offer early intervention. Let's invest in prevention rather than just reacting to the aftermath.

[@josiemartaine4743]

Her husband's reaction to her idea of looking at addiction like a disease is relatable. Sometimes, a change in mindset can lead to real progress.

[@Happy-Dayze]

Definitely, a shift in perspective can be so powerful

[@asiscranda]

This talk makes some really good points about how recovery is not a linear process... Relapses happen, sometimes people are doing really well and sometimes they're not. It's important to offer the same amount of support through all those stages.

[@lakylewashington]

Yeah absolutely. Easy to be there for someone when they're doing well, not so much when they aren't.

[@IGiveRainbowKisses]

One of the key takeaways from this talk is that recovery is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Each person's path is unique, and it's crucial to respect their choices and support them accordingly

[@izayahmayson]

This talk beautifully emphasizes the significance of empathy in dealing with addiction. It's crucial that we support our loved ones by showing compassion, being on their team, and understanding that recovery is a challenging and ongoing process.

[@kogordanuk]

Yes, it's really crushing how many people lack empathy when dealing with addicts.

[@kogordanuk]

People tend to assume if your an addict your also a criminal.

[@IAmASeaMonkey]

Support is crucial, but addiction is complex. It's not as easy as just changing our perspective. We need comprehensive solutions.

[@MomsLettingGo]

I agree. I try to notice the positive changes in my community and share them on social media hoping that others will feel empowered to do the same in their communities.

[@MoonShimmer]

I felt a lot of parallels with my own journey throughout this talk... my recovery also wasn't easy, and I faced many obstacles. But with the right support system, I was able to turn my life around and I am so, so grateful for those who helped me along the way. There's always hope and a reason to pull yourself out of that roundabout ❤❤

[@Flipflopflipflop]

Having that support system is so crucial

[@lakylewashington]

It's so beautiful to see something like this, I love seeing how recovery is possible and that those who have done it attest to how worth it it is

[@MomsLettingGo]

Congratulations on your recovery. It's no easy feat. I wish you continued success! Thanks for taking the time to view and comment.

[@shastadeed]

Michelle's story demonstrates the significance of building a supportive community. Surrounding oneself with people who understand and empathize with the challenges of addiction can be a tremendous source of strength

[@AzimuthMindspace]

Such a touching story that reminds us of the power of empathy and support in helping our loved ones through addiction. 💙

[@allwiseelvisisme]

It's the most important thing we can offer them

[@odysseasmallios1570]

Absolutely, I'm all about the family support

[@AzimuthMindspace]

@@odysseasmallios1570 ❤❤

[@AzimuthMindspace]

@@allwiseelvisisme I think so too

[@aaronereid]

Wow, this talk really opened my eyes to the harsh reality of addiction. It's heartbreaking to think of children going through such neglect. We need to find better ways to support families in recovery.

[@xavierilorenzo]

Yes, I think we often forget that it's not just the person who is addicted, or what else they have in their lives

[@MomsLettingGo]

There are so many neglected children because of addiction and their parents live in shame because they missed so much of their children's lives.

[@CaseReynolds]

@@MomsLettingGo This is awfuI. What a terrible compounding of pain.

[@lollo-lia]

Michelle's dedication to her grandchildren's well-being and her son's recovery is truly inspiring. It's a testament to the unconditional love of a family.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you!

[@lizyvuen]

Yes it is a very lovely example of this

[@shureedouglas8682]

Yes it's heart warming to know those children were looked after from within the family.

[@RedRustyAdvertising]

The statistics she mentioned about substance use and alcohol-related deaths are eye-opening. We definitely need to address this issue more openly and find solutions.

[@High-Pink]

Thoroughly appreciated the significance of treating addiction as a health issue rather than a moral faiIing. It's time to eliminate the stiqma associated with addiction - so many people are struggIing with it in some form - more than you'd ever think or know - and treating it like it's some qross thing to be ashamed of just makes it harder for them to seek treatment.

[@freddyparmentier]

We should strive to create a society where individuals struggling with addiction are met with understanding, compassion, and opportunities for recovery.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Agree! I have another TEDx talk about how to LISTEN to UNDERSTAND (using a PEACE approach). It's so difficult for families to NOT JUDGE because we don't understand what's happening to our loved ones. We want to fix them. What they need is understanding so they are motivated to change.

[@Pixel-Lord]

Yes definitely and have it viewed as a medical issue instead of something criminal or to be ashamed of!

[@deanskyler]

We should strive for this but until people understand what drives an addiction those people will always be met with judgement

[@milagroczarnecki]

amazing. sharing. thank you michelle

[@The-Purple-Pixel]

I really liked what she said about putting our energy in productive places. Being aware of how our negative thoughts stop us from doing that is huge.

[@charlesdonstand]

Definitely, such a good point

[@charlesdonstand]

So much energy wasted with negativity and worry over things you can't change

[@DeliriousGentleman]

That part resonated for me as well!

[@lyndagrasten]

Absolutely, it's a much better use of our time. No point wasting it fretting over things we have no control over

[@kristianzlee]

This talk paints a vivid picture of the emotional journey families face. It's like a mosaic of love, struggle, and hope.

[@shanteydevers]

This is a beautiful way of putting it, not sure it really reflects the reality of the situation though.

[@lucasdanster]

This talk echoes what we discuss in our support group. Sharing our stories and challenges helps us heal and find strength

[@odysseasmallios1570]

Michelle homeschooling her granddaughters in order to keep their relationship going is really heartwarming. Family support is everything, especially in recovery.

[@Notthefootykevinrooney]

Yes, personally I place a lot of value in family

[@Notthefootykevinrooney]

Especially if they need support.

[@MomsLettingGo]

If you ask my granddaughters about that time in their lives ... YIKES! They did NOT like it but it gave them a connection to their parents during a difficult time. I'm confident they will never forget their Mimi homeschooling them. They still talk about it. 😜

[@michaelcorral7962]

So awesome! I cried with you.

[@MomsLettingGo]

It was tough! Crying helps sometimes. Thank you for sharing and caring enough to watch the entire message.

[@effierose5391]

Michelle's message of choosing connection over judgment is powerful. By building bridges of understanding, we can truly make a difference in the lives of those affected by addiction.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you for taking time to watch this video and comment. Yes! It's human nature to judge others. I've been the worse at times. But I've learned (and continue to learn) to accept others and understand the 'other' side of the problem.

[@deanskyler]

Yes, it's all too easy to let your own feelings of disappointment or embarrassment take over and cause you to say or do things you might regret later on

[@taylorpjansen]

In an ideal world there would be no stigma attached to addiction and we would be free to use whatever resources were available to help addicts live a meaningful life.

[@shureedouglas8682]

There's no point wishing for an ideal world or what would happen there. We need to work with what we have in this very flawed world.

[@michellebaysinger]

Wow! You have shared a powerful story. The visuals help to draw me in and connect with your story... then I connect with your story of Hope! Chief Hope Builder is the perfect title for you, thank you for sharing your story. Thank you Ted Talks for sharing Michelle's story !

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you for taking the time to watch this and listen. I love that it brings you hope!

[@nanburkhardt]

We need to change our mindset and view addiction as a disease rather than a personal failure. Compassion and support are essential ❤

[@alberteshoeinfine]

Reminds me of an old Mitch Hedberg joke. 'Alcoholism is the only disease people can yell at you for having'. Maybe if our attitude was different, Mitch would still be around.

[@lakylewashington]

@@alberteshoeinfine Oh wow that's quite sad and poignant isn't it?

[@ericreevesby4192]

Addiction is a disease that affects not only the individual but also their loved ones. We should focus on finding evidence-based recovery options and providing comprehensive support.

[@lollo-lia]

I've had loved ones struggle with addiction and it is so exhausting and painful. Sometimes I feel that we underrate the challenge of being close to an addict.

[@Pixel-Lord]

100% I've always said that addiction is so tied in to mental health it should be treated as something medical related

[@jstoreyj]

I'm so glad that your family is in recovery. It is important to be able to see the person inside the addict.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Absolutely. Sometimes, when they're in active addiction, who they REALLY are is hidden beneath a lot of negativity, a lot of shame, guilt and regret. Thank you for watching!

[@myfavoritestories]

"This is the ripple effect." Such a powerful message! It reminds us that even our small actions can turn into big positive waves in the world.

[@thequinnquinn]

Yes!! Something all too easy to forget

[@deanskyler]

Absolutely, very uplifting

[@deanskyler]

So much of this comes down to treating the problem _before_ addiction. Addiction is just a symptom of the real problem.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Amen! Isn't that the truth. Sometimes we don't know there is a problem though. Sometimes the person in SUD doesn't realize they're trying to mask their problem. They can't see it. It's a journey. We hope and pray they find the problem beneath the use because then there is much more hope.

[@terrywesner8873]

Michelle is a Chief Hope Builder, with a great presence, knowledgeable about addiction and it’s issues, and I am proud to be be affiliated with her and her dreams, and goals to continue to inform the public about this disease called addiction. 🙏

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thanks for taking the time to listen to this message, Terry. I appreciate you and your encouragement. I'm proud of you too. You keep persevering, and advocating for your family, when it's so easy to give up. I'm glad we met!

[@xavierilorenzo]

Is that an official title?? Love it

[@RavishingDamsel]

It's gut-wrenching to see children suffer due to their parents' addiction. It's a stark reminder of the devastating impact of addiction on families.

[@sadfacesforall]

Yes, I don't think addicts realize just how far-reaching their actions are.

[@michelleweidenbenner6509]

Our son and dil never realized how it felt from our point-of-view or their children's until they were sober. Then it hurt badly. They were able to overcome some of the shame and guilt with time, but it's still a thorn in their sides.@@sadfacesforall

[@TheLaidbackSquirrel]

The idea of connecting through empathy transcends addiction!

[@AzimuthMindspace]

Absolutely, when you show someone empathy you can see them for who they are

[@piperhansard5263]

I appreciate Michelle sharing her personal experience. It takes strength to admit our initial negative thoughts and turn them into positive actions. Recovery is a journey, and we should be there to support our loved ones every step of the way.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you. I couldn't have shared it without my son and daughter-in-law's approval. It's a family disease so often parents stay silent to protect the privacy of their loved one. It was so liberating when I could finally talk about this out loud!

[@christopherccooper]

It's heartbreaking to think about the childhood experiences that Addie and her sister missed out on due to their parents' addiction. We must prioritize the well-being of children in such situations.

[@freddyparmentier]

Absolutely. I've had a lot of difficulty in my life due to a parent's addiction struggle.

[@MomsLettingGo]

Yes, but Addie and her sister are doing well now and making up for lost time with their parents. We were blessed to have them and they have fond memories of us in their lives. Sometimes our journeys lead to positive outcomes. I pray that the girls will continue to overcome their trauma and make the best out of their experiences. Thankfully, for them, they had great family support. So many children don't. The system fails them. That's sad.

[@MomsLettingGo]

@@freddyparmentier I'm sorry for your loss of positive memories with your parents. The children definitely suffer. There's no easy answer on how to compensate for absent parents who neglect their children when they're sick. I pray that other family members will step in and try to fill that void. Did you have someone who stepped up for you? How has your experience shaped your life? (Always curious.)

[@joedirt2067]

This talk highlights the complexities of addiction and the ongoing process of recovery. Michelle Weidenbenner's insights and vulnerability create a powerful message of hope and resilience.👍

[@nobullcrossfitlive6333]

Absolutely, the impact on children in such situations is devastating.

[@glennstith4827]

You're an amazing woman Michelle! Your strength in talking about something in your family is special. But God works through you, and that helps me and others. You have a heart that helps so many. You are truly special!

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you for taking the time to encourage me on this journey. There's so much work to do!

[@katrienkarsen]

Oh boy, it just gets so much tougher when your partner also struggles with addiction and you're both using... I think there are natural points in our cycles where we want to stop using but when your partner is using as well it's pretty rare for those moments to sync up.

[@craztinker]

Thank you Michelle, this is a really tough and complex subject, really appreciated your presentation and very key points if we hope to move forward in a healing way.

[@shureedouglas8682]

Addiction affects people from all walks of life. It's not a matter of weakness or choice; it's a complex interplay of genetics, environment, and mental health. Let's approach it with empathy and understanding.

[@selitudenow]

Michelle's story is incredibly inspiring. By changing her mindset and embracing her son's recovery journey, she was able to provide the support and love needed for his successful rehabilitation. It's a reminder that empathy and understanding are powerful tools in the fight against addiction.

[@DeliriousGentleman]

This is a really wonderful interpretation of her talk! And I agree those are two of the most important parts of helping a loved one in any situation

[@Brooke-oi9qr]

Wonderful talk!!! Great job Michelle! Thanks TedX!❤

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment, Brooke. You know what this RIDE is like!

[@ryleightucker]

I wonder how we can balance empathy with accountability when it comes to addiction. It's a delicate line to tread.

[@MomsLettingGo]

We teach this in our support groups. You can have empathy and still hold someone accountable. "Getting fired from a job never feels good. It's rejection. What will you do now?"

[@suminkim346]

Mothers blame themselves when their children are addicts but neglect to factor in that addiction is often handed down from one generation to the next. Sometimes it's just in our DNA, that addictive personality and longing for escape

[@sylzoor4183]

She absolutely nails it when she said it's about letting them take responsibility for their actions instead of forcing them into doing things the way _you_ want them to do it.

[@charlesdonstand]

Yes!!

[@lyndagrasten]

I agree. In my experience trying to make a person do anything they aren't ready to do is a recipe for disaster

[@darrastrohm4305]

Michelle, excellent message of Hope. Grateful for your vision to heal your family with connection!

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you, Darra, for taking the time to watch this and comment. Connecting isn't always easy, is it? Hope is a choice. But it often gets buried.

[@lyndagrasten]

This is a tough cycle to break. It feels like a constant battle, and sometimes it seems like there's no way out for those in the grip of addiction or for their families.

[@katrienkarsen]

It's beyond tough, and so many people just don't. Her son is so lucky to have received this kind of support from his mom.

[@SabrinaSterlingGA]

Michelle thank your for sharing your story on the TEDxEustis stage. You are going to help many people with this timely and important talk!! ❤🎉

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you. I hope so! Thanks for leading us on this journey. it was a pleasure meeting you and 'learning' from you!

[@colleenbobscherer4949]

What a great message we all need to hear! You nailed it, Michelle! ❤

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thanks, Colleen. You're such an encourager and loyal friend! I appreciate you and all you do for our group.

[@kathynowak660]

So good! Thank you Michelle💗

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you for taking the time to watch this and comment.

[@brynleecarter]

I have family that needs to hear this talk....

[@allwiseelvisisme]

So share it with them.

[@PublishedMD]

That's wonderful Michelle! What a great message!

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you for taking time to watch this and comment. I appreciate you, and I hope this message helps other families.

[@sandycarmichael7722]

What an inspiring talk, Michelle. Your commitment to your children and grand children is such a testament to your love, faith and mission to help others. You are our Chief Hope Builder and we love you. ❤️❤️❤️

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you, Sandy. Your encouragement has been a huge part of my 'success' in bringing hope to others. You've taught me so much about leading and listening.

[@Notthefootykevinrooney]

Wow, Michelle's story really hits home. It's a stark reminder that addiction affects not just individuals but whole families. Kudos to her for being so resilient and not giving up on her loved ones. 💪

[@josiemartaine4743]

Absolutely. I think it's easy to think of an addict as just that, not a person

[@josiemartaine4743]

So you don't necessarily think about that they even have families and people who care about them

[@Notthefootykevinrooney]

@@josiemartaine4743 Very true.... It makes me think maybe part of the stigma is so we don't think of them as people

[@Notthefootykevinrooney]

@@josiemartaine4743 And that way it makes it easier to not care

[@deanskyler]

@@josiemartaine4743 Wow, that's easy for you?

[@jovitasardens207]

The courage and resilience shown by Michelle and her family throughout their journey is commendable. It takes strength to keep fighting and never give up hope.

[@josiemartaine4743]

Absolutely

[@therightway8115]

It's not just about recovery for the individuals, but healing the whole family unit.

[@lyndsayramster]

I wonder what more can be done to help families facing these challenges. Are there effective community-based programs or initiatives that can make a difference?

[@charlesdonstand]

@@lyndsayramster I think it would highly depend on where you are located

[@charlesdonstand]

I think there's actually a lot of society that need to healing

[@StarfireStarleena]

Oh my days the way I just teared up at the 11:00 mark. So glad this story had a happy ending. 💜💜

[@teresatholen5759]

I’ll be sharing this message because everyone needs to hear it. Our world has a big problem and WE need to get involved. There is always hope. Great job Michelle! ❤

[@MomsLettingGo]

Thank you for taking the time to watch and share this message. Hugs.

[@shaquille.oatmeal9576]

I'm sharing this too. really valuable talk imo

[@MomsLettingGo]

@@shaquille.oatmeal9576 Thank you!

[@therealmyyt]

So true and the way for it to change is through conversations like this

[@justinberdand]

The way Michelle compared addiction to a roundabout is so clever. It's true, recovery isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. We need more empathy and understanding for those going through it.

[@marinamajeran8904]

Such a powerful talk about the things few want to talk about.

[@0sapnachouhan0]

The key to help is to understand and be patient 💚

[@DeliriousGentleman]

Yes, and I think knowing that sometimes that's all you can do

[@sadfacesforall]

I think there are many parts to it, patience and love will only get you so far.

[@Happy-Dayze]

support and love, even in the face of reoccurring setbacks, can be a guiding light for the times when we want to do better

[@idanowser]

Understanding addiction as a disease is critical. It's not just about choices but complex mental and physical processes.

[@katrienkarsen]

Absolutely. We can even go one step further in our understanding and acknowledge that addiction is a symptom of a disease.

[@IAmTheRealSeeker]

@@katrienkarsen Yes!!! And everybody has that disease. Just some are better equipped to handle it than others.

[@StirGlassHour]

I'm tired of people treating addiction as a moral failing. It's a disease that affects millions of lives. We need to break the stigma and provide more compassionate and effective treatment options.

[@lakylewashington]

Same. People are so complex and there's no way of telling what another persons trauma is or the path that has led them to where they are.

[@piperdee8965]

This is a really beautiful talk, I love that it's realistic as well, it doesn't sugarcoat

[@lyndsayramster]

It's hard to imagine a situation like this getting better. It feels like a never-ending struggle, and I'm not sure how effective support systems can really be.

[@katrienkarsen]

Did you even watch the talk? There's a lot of practical and genuinely helpful advice in it.

[@Iamshawnawashington]

While I'm inspired by these stories, I hope we also invest in prevention and early intervention to spare families from such struggles.

[@allwiseelvisisme]

You know that's not going to happen for a long time. Plenty of other "more important" issues to fix first

[@TransitSpoof]

So needed, having family issues about this, thanks

[@-GreyMatter-]

I know a lot of people who need to see this....

[@soneakquajwhite]

Thank you so much for speaking about this Michelle! We really need to understand and you’ve truly helped me with this. This talk will help greatly! Keep going!

[@michelleweidenbenner6509]

Thank you for watching and sharing! I appreciate you.

[@lizyvuen]

Yes understanding these issues is so crucial in overcoming them