Fentanyl Addicted Prostitute-Alyssa

Soft White Underbelly interview and portrait of Alyssa, a fentanyl addict in Kensington in Philadelphia.
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[@RAE.ofSunshine]

the irony that some of her trauma comes from her mom kicking her out at 14 and lived with her grandma yet her kids are being raised by family. The generational cycle may continue

[@Anna-tj7mp]

I was thinking just the same thing. Is the US care system the disaster it seems?, because I am seeing the American nightmare.

[@miapdx503]

@@Anna-tj7mp The system is horrible. I grew up in the streets and the stories from kids who ran from foster care were the worst. It hasn't gotten better. We are failing our children. 😔🌹

[@Anna-tj7mp]

@@miapdx503 how horrible horrible horrible.

[@Anna-tj7mp]

@@miapdx503 and I hope you are now in a much happier place ❤️❤️❤️

[@miapdx503]

@@Anna-tj7mp I totally am, thank God. 🌹

[@geoffpool7476]

I lived in Philadephia for almost 2 years. If there is a hell on earth, it starts at the corner of Kensington and Allegheny. I became sober in Pennsylvania - 9 years now. It still haunts me sometimes. I hope this lady finds her way to peace.

[@philliesphanatic9523]

Yeah K&A was home away from home for 12 years. Down there everyday. Wasting money and shaving years off my life. I still watch the people who do walkthroughs of Kensington to see if I see anyone I used to associate with. It's nearly impossible to get clean if you're in that area. I had to go 15 hours away with no car and no way back to kick it. I've been back since but it's different when you get clean and realize that type of life isn't it.

[@lindamayer4549]

Bless her. It’s so sad. Hope she’ll get clean 💜 I myself recovered from severe CPTSD. I had it all. Bipolar rapid cycling, suicidality, constant anxiety, borderline. Two years full-time trauma work and Im almost fully recovered. Still needs to get off the dam Xanax. I don’t believe anymore that it’s genetic. I think all this stuff is transgenerational trauma and there’s hope for all of us 💜

[@texasktea]

I also walked those streets as an addict. It's literally everywhere. I had to get out but learned I'd find dope anywhere. 200+ days clean.

[@ninabukovics2802]

Thats exactly what I feel when I see or think of Kensington...

[@NiaDelvechhioOnFB]

k&a if you know then you know!!

[@psycho4agY]

My 26 years clean was yesterday! 5/23 Don’t give up! I was the last one people thought would ever get clean and turn my life around.

[@swingham4020]

Drugs used to forget the past, ends up ruining your future So sad, to hear she uses to numb the pain of feeling. Ive been there, and i know what she is feeling, im 8 years clean in 2 weeks, and watching this still brings the memories flooding back. I hope she can find some peace 🙏

[@ForogotD]

Man, I am glad you won the battle. Keep wining the war. May you have all blessings, love, peace, health and joy of the world. 🍀❤💎🙋🏻‍♀️

[@alyssaortega2332]

Proud of you!! 💝🥺

[@danielmeuler2877]

That's a Great Dam saying! It certainly hits home for me. Today I pass another year older and I do it with 18months and 24 days sober from fentanyl. I do it with a Sober Peaceful mind. I too wish I could hand this Girl a Sample of what that feels like. I'd stand rite off camera at my little station like at Costco handing little samples on napkins out to everyone of the addicts I see on this channel. To anyone struggling with addiction, there are Lots of ways to get Sober. Some people like to act like there is only One and they determine who's doing it rite. Don't ever let them Deter you. There are Always more Excuses not to quit than to Quit. NONE of them matter. What ever peace you found in your substance I Guaranty is causing more pain and suffering than anything. If there is something I can hand every addict struggling rite now is this, and it's what finally put me over the hump when it comes to taking the first steps to getting clean. I have the Ability to Grant My Wish of Sobriety. I Say if I Die a junkie or Fight my way out of this Hell. Congratulations on 8 years Mitchell! I love when I read comments like yours because it shows me that people can rise from addiction and start stacking years of Sobriety. Here's to The Calm and Peace of a SoberMind. May it find Everyone who is seeking it.

[@stevepoo1762]

So true, my drug of choice was not so severe, not heroin, crack etc, but all the same path.

[@swingham4020]

@@danielmeuler2877 , your a blessing to so many people my friend, keep inspiring others to be the person we know they can be, and deserve to be. Much love & respect, Just for today im free from the pain of addiction 🙏🙏

[@pambeforethestorm9784]

Biggest regret: "Having the opportunity to turn things around before it got bad and not doing it, then losing everything " I felt her on soooo many levels! I pray she gets sober and heals, whatever it takes....I see it in her, she can do it! 💯❤👑🔥🔥🔥

[@TRUECRIMEARMY]

It’s never too late. If she’s out there another 5 years from now, she’ll be saying the same thing ‘I wish I had made change before ‘this, this, and that’ happened’. Change begins with her; she’s gotta want it and that means fighting and sacrificing for it.

[@jonboatmorava9115]

She's only 30. She has 37 years left just before she'll be old enough to retire.... If she woke up tomorrow and tried to change she'd have many years of good life. She's not ready

[@mamarobyn]

As long as you're breathing you have a chance...you can do it!

[@danielmeuler2877]

I had the Opportunity and warnings to get off opiates before I lost everything. The thing is I had everything I ever wanted. I had the same attitude as this Girl about "Knowing they could change before things get To Bad" or "I will when I'm ready". Today I turn another year older and I do it 18 months and 24 days sober from opiates, Fentanyl to be exact. 18 months and 25 days ago if I had one Wish it would of been to have a Peaceful Sober Mind. It took a lot of work and and lot of help from some great people but I have that Today. I wish I could hand a sample of that out to The Young Lady in the video and every other addict I see struggling. I Pray She gets her Wish Granted be before it's to late. But She is the ONLY one with the power and Ability to make such a thing happen. I Pray for Her as well.

[@katspringer9360]

She’s obviously intelligent but prolonged drug use will eventually take that too.

[@ewechoober3355]

Another story of a whole family of kids not being raised by their primary caregiver parent. It's a never-ending cycle

[@KayciazWorld]

@@treasuretim3 This! Unfortunately so true. The last period of time where society was still completely filled with substance was the early to mid 2000's. It sucks because things will never be the same.

[@ewechoober3355]

@@treasuretim3 l get what you're saying about the breakdown in communication with cellphones, particularly at meal times, but l do think we're clearly dealing with a far great issue, it's systemic substance abuse and addiction, which leads children of addicts to grow into addicted adults themselves and thus the cycle begins again. Abandoned children, raised by other family members, particularly aging grandparents doing the best they can, often in very poor circumstances while their own sons and daughters are running around the streets looking for fentanyl, leads to further abandonment issues and then the grandkids follow in exactly the same footsteps as their moms and dads. There are stories of abandoned grandkids actually bringing home their abandoned kids and dumping them on the grandparents when they get hooked on drugs. Imagine being elderly and responsible for your great-grandchildren after taking in your grandchildren!!!

[@sugarsore]

@@treasuretim3 It's not a freaking conspiracy. No one is trying to "destroy the family."

[@marylougeorge9890]

@@sugarsore It's the place to start to destroy civilization. Nobody with bonds or loyalty. No unity no strength. Consider that.

[@baublesanddolls]

As soon as I hear they have children, I'm immediately pissed off. They know how to get their drugs every day, know how to find needles, etc. They can certainly go get free birth control. They can get the needle or patch so they don't have to remember to take a pill every day. Better yes, get your tubes tied!! What a mess and then the cycle continues!!

[@shannonbradley4699]

Oh, Alyssa. I used to teach school in Kens. I live about 90 minutes away now but if you see this comment, please comment back. I have a great friend with connections to resources to help you. PLEASE comment here. You're worth it!

[@leximolina1726]

I am a grateful fentynal addict in recovery.... it's absolutely possible I hope everyone struggling sees this and knows it is possible! And as soon as you get better literally everything starts getting better your whole life does a 180

[@teresaacevedo1731]

Lexi I am proud of you fot being in recovery ! Keep going and you’ll see the greatness sobriety brings to your life . Praying for you to stay strong .

[@Justheresk007]

Keep going

[@sydlovesbreedlove]

I’m trying so hard to get clean. I’m so ready, but it’s so hard. I want it so bad. Comments like yours encourage. Congratulations on your clean time. Can’t wait til I can write a comment like yours.

[@LimoneneDaddy]

@@sydlovesbreedlove this was me like 6 mo ago it took me a long time of trying to finally get it. I would wish you best of luck but luck won't do it w this stuff!

[@Im-A-Survivor0219]

@@sydlovesbreedlove Praying for you! You can do it! Message me if you wanna talk 🙏🏽💜🙏🏽

[@triplevme1507]

You should do compilations of everyone’s answers to specific questions, like most important lesson learned, biggest regret, etc.

[@wesleyalan9179]

I 2nd that! Great idea!

[@nickryan4619]

That's what I said! Put out a book with the portrait and the quote to the question of the most important thing they have learned. I think that would make a great book.

[@wesleyalan9179]

@@nickryan4619 Absolutely 💯 %

[@Shornandkenny]

Brilliant

[@sciencenotstigma9534]

Cool idea 💡!

[@jacquelinem3655]

Her poor swollen hands. I’m from the same town. It’s since turned into neighborhoods of recovery homes. She’s right at that age where kids fell into pill popping and sped fast into the opioid epidemic. My childhood best friend fell into it hard for years after her mom died but miraculously dug her way out and is now a happy mom of a beautiful boy. Recovery is possible. Wishing you the best love.

[@johntheaccountant5594]

I noticed the swollen hands and wonder how that comes about and wonder if her feet would also be swollen.

[@SharonBenson2674]

Tell your friend that I said congratulations!

[@shelikestuff]

It hurts to looks at I feel so bad .. could be her liver or a multitude of things but I feel so bad for her ! That’s gotta be so uncomfortable

[@sciencenotstigma9534]

Thanks for your compassion. I hope she doesn’t have to learn from experience that people don’t just decide to stop talking care of themselves. The skin infections and antibiotics, time after time, and the drugs and cutting agents will tear your body up, in time, until you’re disabled. The skin infections spread to the blood, and then the heart (endocarditis). Teeth crack and fall out from dope, not just from not brushing. She knows some of this but until you get that bad, or see someone close to you in and out of the hospital, it’s hard to truly understand. I still have chronic illness from my using days, and my friend has been fighting for her life for several years now, because she suffered endocarditis from infection, and multiple organ failure from the cumulative effects of cutting agents and Tylenol in the opiate pills she used too many of, for years (Percs, Tylenol 3, etc.). I got Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, due to a missed chlamydia infection on the streets at 17, and am infertilez. I have had PID recur over 10 times (for some women, bacterial PID never goes away completely…you don’t have to catch a virus again. You can’t spread PID. It’s not contagious, but it can kill me, or the antibiotic resistance or gut damage from multiple antibiotic courses might). I’ve got 4 years of recovery under my belt, though! I’m so happy for your friend! Recovery is better than I ever imagined it could be. I just hope Alyssa’s can be easier than mine…she still has a chance to get out healthy. ❤️‍🩹

[@karenbeee4568]

@@johntheaccountant5594 Her feet and legs are swollen too. So sad. I'm surprised when Mark said she doesn't look like a drug addict because she really does.

[@jessica_mantei]

I have genuine hope for her. She’s smart. She’s young. She understands the reality of her situation. I hope she can climb out of this.

[@jaguska368]

I love how Mark is getting more and more confident in those interviews and how he tries to lift those people up!

[@KayciazWorld]

That's the best part; him encouraging them. Him taking time to understand them is exactly what they need. I'm sure they must feel so much lighter after these interviews.

[@AnthonyWilliams-lt2oz]

Straight up

[@occystrap8560]

Alyssa, you seem switched on, down to earth and just sound. When you're ready, or when you're just tired of it, wish you all the luck in the world.

[@marylougeorge9890]

@natural flavor Better to see the best than to drag someone down.

[@occystrap8560]

@natural flavor 132 comments on this channel in 2 months - with you complaining about people. I don't know what's going on in your life right now, but none of us are any better than the other. Good luck out there!

[@naraendrareddy273]

1:20 THIS is a game changer. When kids do something wrong you SHOULDN'T kick them out. You should instead take them into your arms and try to get them back into the right track. Never give up your children like that.

[@errorASMR]

exactly. my parents kicked me out and i'm luckily to be alive after the many hell years i went through homeless living in motels....knowing your parents don't care enough to try and save you was the fuel to my fire back than :/

[@xxsamlovexx]

She’s been fed the lie that addiction is a hereditary, incurable disease. Addiction is a generational curse, for sure. But you can break the cycle. I come from a family of alcoholics. I’ve struggled with all kinds of drug, alcohol, eating disorders, etc. you have to get out of the mindset that you are hopeless. Of course you won’t want to save for your future or even imagine yourself having one with that mindset. It’s not true💔

[@klownofkether6996]

I’ve had similar thoughts, I understood that people calling addiction a “disease” was probably meant to take away the blame that society put on people (because it’s obviously a lot more complicated than it being “a choice”) but then I saw people get disempowered again once they latched onto that because then suddenly they saw themselves as the victim of an incurable disease, and essentially doomed. So I like what you said!

[@marylougeorge9890]

@@klownofkether6996 That got me, too. Near total hopelessness. Like there is no way she could ever have a real life away from drugs. Made my heart heavy.💔

[@DucatiGTS]

Absolute truth!

[@nhlibra]

@Samantha Love, I agree that any form of addiction is not hereditary. YES, there is a high likelyhood alcoholism will be repeated in your behavior if all you've ever seen is someone pouring themselves an alcoholic drink (repetitive behavior). But if you witness the ups and downs of someone being drunk, mouthing off, puking, arguing with family members, apologies that go nowhere, job loss, eviction, etc,...you might also be the type that will never touch the stuff. The same goes for people that claim the "fat gene", what a joke. That is just an excuse for overeating and not caring enough about your health to be mindful of what you consume.

[@marylougeorge9890]

@@nhlibra Listen! I was Fine until the fat gene! You Are Waaayyyy Off about That and I Expect your apology! (😉🤣)

[@negrito3066]

Throughout the entire interview She was separating herself from the same people she's with on a daily basis. She's no better than any one person out there because she isn't ready to give that life up either.

[@miapdx503]

Denial plays a huge role in addiction.

[@negrito3066]

@@miapdx503 I agree 100%

[@granny58]

@@miapdx503 and victimology

[@sciencenotstigma9534]

I think she’s in a defensive position because you have to protect yourself from the people you interact with. There’s a constant onslaught of violence and disrespect of property on the streets that doesn’t leave you a lot of time for moral self-reflection, which is already impaired, in addiction.

[@LoneWulf278]

@@sciencenotstigma9534 Exactly.

[@lifebeginswithaseed]

"They say you got to want to get clean& sober, but how do you want it?" You decide it's not worth it anymore. You decide your kids are more important than the drugs. They are so much more important. They need you. They need you just like you needed your mom and dad. You're going to have the urge sometimes you just have to fight it. It gets better. If you have to leave the environment, leave. I moved far away from mine (3 states away) and haven't looked back. I'm 11 or 12 years clean. I don't know the exact date. I'm just glad I'm here.

[@robinsnestradio]

Congratulations on your progress. May your continue on this wellness journey.

[@shauncollins678]

Run from the drugs the same way you ran after em and you'll be fine!!

[@putitback4789]

@@shauncollins678 😂

[@norawalker9180]

Congratulations. It's nice to hear people can and do have the will power to leave the drugs and lifestyle. I'm very happy for you.

[@Oceansun_21]

So heart breaking. Her hands are red and swollen… so her body isn’t coping very well after years of addiction. Sending her healing 🌸

[@lisamarie5882]

What causes the swelling?

[@deerheart87]

@@lisamarie5882 it must be injecting in the hands ??? I don’t know either

[@Oceansun_21]

@@lisamarie5882 sometimes liver failure… or heart failure… sending her healing

[@redeemedbutforyourgrace]

GETTING cancer is of no comparison to CHOOSING to do drugs!!!

[@baublesanddolls]

Exactly!! I despise that mentality. You don't choose cancer!! You choose drugs.

[@AJ-wo7qh]

You both clearly have not been listening. Rewind. Rewatch. Have empathy and open your heart and mind. Numbing/forgetting childhood trauma can often times not be a “choice” - it’s live (high) or die. Addressing substance (mis)use is the same as chemo for cancer. Again, you haven’t been listening.

[@deejkdeejk]

no matter how put together a person looks, the hands never lie

[@bryceherring946]

She has an incredibly real and authentic nature when she speaks or answers Mark's questions, very slow to speak but you can tell its because shes had alot of time to think and process, she doesn't feel rushed or compelled to give some knee jerk reaction, and I also like the real and authentic brief moments of silence between the two between Mark's questions, we are so talkative today and spouting off left and right but you could tell eventhough the tone and contents of the conversation was sad and depressing, she was very real and authentic.

[@samsonatkins3166]

No she's just fucked up dude.. drugs before interview

[@BrVi_7]

She can still totally turn things around, I work with a woman who had a similar story and got clean and is doing so great and is such a cool person so pretty and happy now. She went to a great program. I wish more people could get that help.

[@baublesanddolls]

She doesn't want to!!

[@BrVi_7]

@@baublesanddolls I know I wish there was a way to get people to want better for themselves

[@sciencenotstigma9534]

That makes all the difference. I went to 1 juvenile, 1 voluntary, and 2 court ordered rehabs that really stigmatized and punished people, and I left feeling worse. I went to one based on current brain research showing that addiction is no less a disease than heart disease and, far from giving me excuses, it made me think maybe I deserved to get better. That was also by court order, but I begged to be allowed into it. I could not have just changed after the previous treatments, because they were bogus and didn’t help. In one, the counselor just let the biggest bully in the group cuss everyone out for not “caring about their recovery.” This was all day. Anyone who wasn’t into drama just didn’t participate. They found out the bully had been using the whole time, in treatment. That was how stupid the programs were. Then I went through one actual good therapeutic outpatient group I found through word on the street, not even inpatient. That was 4 years ago & I’m going strong, working on my education, and (hopefully) helping others recover. We need access to better treatment for everyone!

[@sciencenotstigma9534]

@@baublesanddolls You don’t have to want to go, on feel ready. That notion comes from the AA book, pub. 1939. AA is a support group, made up of laypeople. Science has come a long way since then. Most people who quit addictions do so because of a court order. (Understanding Addiction, Dr. Chuck Smith, Addictionologist & Dr. Jason Hunt, Addiction Medicine.). I was one of those court ordered people and if that hadn’t happened, I think I would be dead. I never would have wanted to quit because you don’t have access to well-functioning reasoning and decision making abilities. Those occur in the prefrontal cortex, which is profoundly biophysically altered by addiction, taking 1-3 years to repair. Even then, the dopamine circuits are typically still compromised.

[@shannonmonahan7640]

It took me about 5 trips to rehab and a dozen trips to jail to finally get it right

[@JudgeD-hc9vw]

Once you get sick and tired of being sick and tired......healing can begin.

[@Zionplaysbloxfruitsandtsbg]

The addiction to Soft White Underbelly is Real!

[@jaredotnes997]

Alyssa, if you are reading this please remember that you are not alone. When you can’t run anymore, you crawl. And when you can’t crawl anymore, you let someone carry you. ❤️

[@JulseyBee]

I would love to see Mark interview an addict who’s in recovery, as a contrast, to educate both this audience both addicted and not, and to potentially help someone watching. There is a solution, we do recover.

[@JulseyBee]

There’s also so much that goes into recovery - so many modalities - mine happens to be 12 step, therapy and spirituality. 4 years heroin and meth free in august, from homeless prostitute to sober student and mother. In and out of 21 treatment centers in 10 years. If you are breathing there is still hope.

[@SoulBey]

He has actually

[@SoulBey]

Amanda was a good one

[@tammyb8742]

Mark and Mathew are 2 he's done recently

[@roxannerodriguez7075]

True! And do a lot of different styles of recovery. To show people that there isn't one specific way to get better. But that it can be done. 💜

[@gregoryreeves8586]

I disagree with her realm of thinking that it is all "hereditary" and that her drug addiction is uncontrollable like cancer. That's B.S. I am proof that even though drug addiction ran through my family that you can beat it. I've been clean off Meth for almost two years now. Great support and a whole lot of will power can do wonders. She can do it. Wish her the best. God Bless 🙌

[@NAT-turners-Revenge]

I agree... biological urges arent action unless acted upon. There is no proverbial gun to her head. I have a gambling addiction- i may take extreme measures like taking investment apps off my phone so i dont liquidate, keep my debit card at home etc.... Theres always a day to block yourself or at least make it difficult to get to that addiction

[@royceealmanza5689]

I agree, a history of addiction is only a history unless acted upon, but as we know when you are active in your addiction any an all excuses as to why you are there are viable in your own mind. I pray she gets help, gets clean and has a meaningful life.

[@termsofusepolice]

Some people beat cancer, too. But some don't. And "will power" plays no role in the statistical outcomes.

[@baublesanddolls]

I totally agree. Good for you for getting off meth. How did you do it? Are you on a maintenance drug?

[@donnadonato527]

Agree. I was surprised of her point of view.

[@alexmonson5575]

it is really debilitating to see the "addiction is a disease you can't cure" narrative... i have a family full of addicts, and i have addictive tendencies but there is always a way to control your urges and beat the odds.

[@marylougeorge9890]

I can under it playing a part in addiction but it's total hopelessness to hear her say that. It's like she really believes there is no way out for her.💔

[@jamesv26]

Once an addict always an addict. Even if you're sober, you have to live your life day by day.

[@majesticgee7610]

@@jamesv26 that cultural of victimizing oneself for validation of others is really killing the society.

[@lalachka101]

It's the truth. Addiction isn't just using drugs, it's a set of qualities, all genetic which make you predisposed to using drugs. Some people get lucky and never end up in situations in which they start using drugs. Others aren't so lucky. But even if they manage to quit, they're not cured, they're in remission, since those qualities didn't go anywhere and it's a time bomb. Success rate of beating addiction is 10%. And, speaking about you in particular. Ability to control your urges is also genetic (impulsivity). And coming from a family of addicts doesn't mean you will be an addict, it just means that you have the chance of having a genetic predisposition. Maybe you don't have it though. Addictive personality is a set of traits, all genetic, and what that means is that a person with those traits has a higher chance of starting to use drugs than a person who doesn't have those traits.

[@pamelapalmer2832]

It sounds like she's given up. She's well persevered for what she's gone through in her young life. I hope she will get outta there because there's still hope for her. Such a smart and pretty girl.

[@emartinez7733]

Her legs and hands are swollen. She def looks like an addict.

[@pamelapalmer2832]

@@emartinez7733 yeah and there's still time to get away from it.

[@dxxl-]

God the way she reminds me of my stepsons mom is so sad, it's been 4 years of us fighting to get him out of her lifestyle even offering her help or outside of court provisions especially with our new baby on the way and she just immediately went into attack mode, denial, had her rich mom take him for her time to save face until he got caught by the cops at a drug party with her- he's 11... It's our 2nd month finally on full custody/her only allowed supervised visits but won't take them. I often wonder if she was offered money to sit down and talk and get help, if she would. We tried the nice sit down and paid her 5 bucks for gas the second we found out about the tin foil and here we are 4 years later and for me, 14 years of knowing her and never would've thought this is how she would end up. To all users, please remember the steps people took to try and help you without enabling you when the time comes because I know you can get better and what will you say? Hold it against the people that tried so hard to not expose you also? Please remember. I hope fentynal ends soon, but that's wishful thinking.

[@a.wanderer5006]

Thanks so much for looking out for him. You don't sound like a stepmonster at all! It's crazy that even knowing they could die at anytime of an OD that they do it anyway, even being parents.

[@tattyk665]

I personally believe the Fentanyl issue is a created one; government is biggest dealer. They have no interest in trying to fix this, they created this.

[@marylougeorge9890]

@@a.wanderer5006 Hi, honey. 🙋🤗❤️

[@paulbrodi3148]

What she says at end , not taking things for granted is so true.wish her the best

[@Sammysmys]

When asked if she has friends: “There’s no friends in Kensington”

[@granny58]

She's incapable of friendship. Drugs first.

[@Dorisasaurus1133]

By the grace of my Higher Power I have 10 years clean from Heroin and Cocaine this July 4th 2022 There is life after addiction. Keep the faith and Find the Will inside of you something anything that you have complete faith in. Go with that and Run don’t ever look back

[@AuthenticallyAlyssa]

The fact that my name is Alyssa and i am from the same area she grew up in. We are cut from two different cloths but yet we still share something in common…….. we are human, praying for you Alyssa!

[@DD-cp7oi]

Posted this video 4 minutes ago & already 200 people are viewing it. That's alot of people waiting for the uploads from Mark... Thanks Mark for being consistent. We appreciate you.

[@williambutler1955]

I’m at work. A lot of night shifters most likely. I work days. Just picking up some ot. But we here. 😂

[@Kodakcompactdisc]

6226 now

[@Gram72534]

This channel is saving lives! I watch every morning before I leave. It's a major part of my recovery and has taught me so much and how to empathize with others. Have a great day! Hello to everyone who reads this 4:55am in Denver have a good 1 SWU fam!

[@miapdx503]

@@Gram72534 Gram you have an awesome day🌹

[@williambutler1955]

@@Gram72534 yo I’m in Denver to. Small world. At the purina play to be exact.

[@molly18239]

Glad you started doing some videos on Kensington. I think ppl assume California is the drug capital of the US. Little do they know it's actually south eastern Pennsylvania. Which pains me to say, living just a couple hours from there.

[@terywetherlow7970]

Never once do i recall seeing Mayor's take on this. It took a you tuber on Venice Beach (German in Venice) to call the leaders out on this issue. (Along with others). This part of the equation makes me angry, as not one of them apologized for dereliction of duties. Stunning.

[@baublesanddolls]

I wish Mark would come to British Columbia, Canada. 🇨🇦 Vancouver's East Hastings is very similar.

[@chipsammich2078]

I wish I could decide tomorrow to not have cancer..

[@sfwatxyo2162]

Some addicts strike me as being addicted to their addiction. It seems like they are so wedded to the identity of "addict" that it's unimaginable they could be anything else. Maybe it's just a coping mechanism. Maybe they've just resolved to die in that life. I'm sad for the little girl who Alyssa had to be.

[@emm2937]

So true! Well said!

[@nickbrennan3389]

Very true...good comment. People get addicted to the lifestyle, scoring, hustling, drama, getting high...more drama, danger, arguments, then escaping into the void...it becomes like a job and an identity

[@emm2937]

@@nickbrennan3389 💯🎯

[@granny58]

Addicted to the drama and excitement as well.

[@cannabiscaitlinlivingwithGBS]

Is there a way to get ahold of this girl? I'd like to help her if she'd accept it. I have 6 years clean, I relate to her and what she has been through.

[@putitback4789]

What about the other people? Are they not worthy? Playing favorites isn’t helpful! No sympathy for men as usual!

[@cannabiscaitlinlivingwithGBS]

@@putitback4789 I have sympathy for men, my husband of 20+ years and the Dad to our 3 kids is sitting in an urn on my shelf. I'm a female, I related to her. Some people just speak to other people's souls. I never said that someone else wasn't worthy. Check yourself before you wreck yourself pal.

[@mattwink4105]

Interview like this has to be tough. Props to the interviewer. Fantastic job

[@mddell58]

The 'interviewer' His name is Mark. ✅

[@Shornandkenny]

Your new here eh

[@brunettezprettyr4296]

@@Shornandkenny you're

[@Shadowcrypt77]

This girl grew up in the town next to mine. I feel for her. 💔

[@JNB520]

Yeah, I know I'm going to see someone I know on here now that he was in Kensington... :(

[@ossoduro7794]

Did any of you walk on the moon with Sherman Helmsley, too?

[@LeBron_tha_GOAT]

@@ossoduro7794 Or Sting???

[@ossoduro7794]

@@LeBron_tha_GOAT They be out hur huntin' us down and stinging us er day! Lebronica Jane......? You hit the sherm, the dipper, walk on the water? Get dusted, too? Angel Dust, phencyclidine? Or do you just like it balmy? Sheeeeit, those days are over for me!

[@NAT-turners-Revenge]

Do u love PA?

[@chrismaines1285]

I hope this woman gets in a rehab and clean in time before it’s just too late. So sad.

[@Kerry-ft2zf]

This young woman has so much potential. She's a good person & intelligent. I hope she can find a way out

[@VickieCarla]

I thought exactly the same. I so hope she makes it.

[@rhabdob3895]

How is she a good person? I mean I hope she does well, but I didn’t get any good person vibes any more than the next unfortunate junky.

[@Kerry-ft2zf]

@@rhabdob3895 she didn't strike me as just another junkie. I could imagine her as a successful young woman if it wasn't for her background. She's emotional, aware & intelligent

[@rhabdob3895]

Ok

[@naraendrareddy273]

@@rhabdob3895 She has compassion. If she could she can change her life over.

[@kat8436]

You still have time girl…I hope you are able to find a way to deal with the addiction so you can be free and at peace. Sending love your way

[@MrNoNameForYou]

I loved heroin. I also loved opium. I loved scoring poppies and refining the milk. Heroin seemed so natural. And it's really sad to think everyone's out there doing fentanyl. I bet society misses actual heroin addicts.

[@baublesanddolls]

What happened to heroin? Why isn't it available??

[@elizabethc4037]

So true. Especially in the 90’s and early 2000’s. Heroin addicts were calm and didn’t attract attention to themselves, mostly kept to themselves and when they did do crime it was petty thefts or such.

[@MrNoNameForYou]

@@baublesanddolls It is available. Just not common. It's all sugar & fentanyl now it seems.

[@MrNoNameForYou]

@@elizabethc4037 Very true. And many weren't cut throat. They relied on people & relationships for help when they really needed it. Many were a community of people.

[@user-pb1cc3bo8v]

The government has to be involved in tainting the entire drug market with fake fent and tranq that destroys your tissue into necrosis after the first missed shot. It's not the same. It's absolute destruction that can't be denied. Fking war-fare. Once you know you can't unsee. It's a war on the people.

[@abdurahmanmohamed3378]

Accountability has left the chat

[@sharonkeller8367]

Interesting to hear her say no one in her family has gone above and beyond to go look for her and yet they are taking care of her three kids. Oh boy. And then when asked if they did find her would she go with them, long pause. People don't have time for addict's games. People should not give up their own lives for an addict.

[@lydiapurple]

Much love to you Alyssa, I’m from bucks county too. Thank you Mark for giving a voice to the people who live in Kensington.

[@siddhartha740]

I like when Mark asks more questions, and different ones as well. Great interview!

[@jenniferharrison8540]

I don't do drugs anymore but I get the statement "I'd rather be alone than be around people I don't trust." I believe women that have experienced abuse DO NOT trust.

[@sheilahill981]

This girl is PISSED OFF so bad at everyone and everything. She is very shut off, it's like just give my money mark, I DNT wanna talk anymore. In some ways this girl thinks she's a better person than the people she's actually living with it. And of course she has kids, she DNT want help, and her attitude is wtf man just leave me alone, I'm smarter than you.

[@bezillions]

She's actually a very intelligent, , kind individual whom never asked me for anything in the 4 you're we were hanging out

[@brwnskndgirl6948]

Each time I watch these videos I keep seeing the irony in not being accountable. For her to to say that you have to have a thick skin to survive Kensington, but you can’t have thick skin to deal with life and you want to escape life by doing drugs. Where’s the tough skin? Drugs are and never will be the answer.

[@sheilahill981]

BEAUTIFULLY SAID. I AGREE 💯 EXCUSES EXCUSES EXCUSES. 💐

[@candiceyoung8244]

This one hurt my heart as a mother of grown children and grandchildren. I pray she gets out of that life. 🙏

[@bittnerbs]

I can feel her pain. She knows it is bad and what she is doing isn’t terrible, but she can’t stop. I feel like Mark is trying really hard to get her to recognize how bad it is and commit to wanting and getting help. I’m sure that he’d help her out if she really committed herself to getting help. I truly feel for her.

[@joelyons8238]

Addiction is not hereditary. It's a choice. You choose to keep doing what your doing. Until you see that & understand that, you will never get clean. I truly Pray for you.

[@carynmartin6053]

I think sometimes these interviews are helpful for the person to take a good look at their lives and how they got there, and maybe they can see where they went wrong, and have a little more hope for getting out of that destructive lifestyle. It may be the only chance they have taken a moment to reflect on it

[@Walloflead0331]

It’s NEVER too late girl!

[@msdecemberloveangel8236]

When u get sick and tired of being sick and tired that's when you take the time to evaluate your life lil sis.

[@nicolar6461]

It’s ironic that she said Kensington is probably one of the worst places you can live in America and here in Britain Kensington is the most upper class area in the country.

[@r.d.kapproved1829]

Mark the fact the you traveled to Philadelphia to go deep into Kensington the area the corrupt government tries to cover up is the biggest step to breaking down the corruption. Thank you

[@rebelfrog3]

So gut wrenching how quickly she said "of course" when he asked about abuse in her childhood. Lord please get her off the streets and heal her mind and body before she becomes another one gone and forgotten.

[@ChicReal]

Alyssa, you are a beautiful soul who is intelligent, and you are worth it!!! You CAN do it!! You will improve the quality of your life, I believe in you!! Please stay safe. 💐💖 Praying for you, your safety and recovery. Much love to you.🙏🏻❤️🙏🏻

[@feliciaalbanese3338]

My husband’s aunt Phyllis who passed away her daughter ran away at a young age in Kensington. I’m wondering if she’s still there and alive. She would probably be late 40s early 50s in age.

[@myeyeswentdeaf6213]

Good Morning from 6:00am Brooklyn NY to whatever it is wherever you are, my SWU fam

[@ruthadelbai7388]

To U as well my dear n my SWU Fams ❤️💙🧡💛💜💚

[@miapdx503]

Good morning friend 🌹 it's 6 am on the west coast. Have an awesome day 🌹

[@dandemann4644]

Mother's an addict, Father an addict...what straight responsible person would want to willingly enter that world as an in-law?

[@terywetherlow7970]

Other recovering folks.

[@susanmcewan302]

shes sooo beautiful, seems so very depressed and probably frightened of giving recovery another chance. I believe she can do it, has to give it yet one more try....I'll be praying for this young woman. shes special.

[@skoopsro7656]

It's not that you have to want to stop, it's that the pain of using eventually outweighs the fear of getting clean. I was there too. Nearly 6 years clean now. Get that help, and it's never a bad time ti start.

[@fullclipaudio]

The homeless drug addicts in California have it soooo much easier than the ones in Pennsylvania. You've got to be tough as nails to be homeless in Pennsylvania. It is one big party in California - not so much where she lives.

[@joelyons8238]

Thank you for sharing. If a person doesn't want to stop using they never will. I pray she will come to a point of wanting to stop. Recovery is possible. I'm 4yrs Sober this month. & I pray it can happen to her, & to everyone else out there dealing with addiction.

[@terywetherlow7970]

Bravo Joe. It is people like you who give me hope for those who need to quit.

[@donvito1260]

I swear this channel has the best comment section on KZbin. I wish the world was more like you guys

[@luna_belle5029]

Awe, sweet girl. I hope you find the way out. You deserve a life of joy and freedom. Sending you love.

[@amberwkly3747]

Plz do more interviews from Kensington. That place looks like hell on Earth 😥💔 I would love to hear more stories from the people that live on the streets there.

[@tinterlight]

Hope you get out, Melissa - while you might not picture it where you're standing now, I can really see you doing a 180, getting a cool, drug free life for yourself, being creative, and looking back at this video wondering who this person was. Reach out, Melissa. Love from the UK.

[@AlohaNLight2All]

All of my relatives have been addicted to drugs. Its not easy being the sober one either way at times. I wish her the best!

[@alexisa9664]

I’m not sure if it’s because I’m from Philly so have more of a connection to these interviews but personally all of the Kensington videos have felt so heavy and dark compared to the videos on skid row. Not sure if it’s just me but it feels like a noticeable difference.

[@Adamas11]

I feel the same way. I am as born in west Philly, and have had ties with Philly all my life.

[@miapdx503]

I feel that...

[@terywetherlow7970]

Starkness of portraiture to me tells the story accurately.

[@kryptonite9804]

WORD. I've been watching this channel for a couple years. He interviewed a guy on Skid Row that mentioned Kensington. I commented to Mark to not think of coming here. It's a whole different ball game. He needs to get out of dodge. I lived in West Philly for a decade, worked at (Jevs) Act 1, Wedge, and Kensington Hospital. Gaudenzia, WES, First Step, and MedNet. 2 of those are methadone programs that were damn near hopeless.

[@maureent8653]

Sad. Alyssa seems like a good person who unfortunately is addicted to drugs. Hoping to see her someday off the streets and living a productive life.

[@baublesanddolls]

She's addicted to drugs, but doesn't want to stop!! This bullshit about it being a disease like cancer, etc., infuriates me. It's more of a dis-ease!! You don't walk into a doctor's office and are told, "I'm sorry you're a drug addict." Any drug addict can get clean IF THEY WANT!!! They have to want it. Once they want it, it's very easy with suboxone. There's no withdrawal. I'm tired of all the excuses from these addicts, but it just tells you that they're not ready. Most never are.

[@Madison.Rutherford]

She has potential to change.

[@warrenhouse8473]

I agree.

[@baublesanddolls]

She sure does. The sad thing is, she doesn't want to and has no intention of doing so. I'd like an update in another year or two to see how many more teeth are missing, the condition of her hands, and if her skin is still as nice. Such a waste.

[@santijio5269]

Thank you 🙏🏼 for posting these vids for us.

[@jenniferlosoya9742]

I’m praying for Alyssa. She deserves so much better. Her kids deserve a mom… I really hope she’s able to get out of this life.

[@Xp8riot.]

Mark see if you can get an interview with Bre - she is a well known girl around there and her tongue is as sharp as a knife and she is real AF she doesn't mince words.. I think she might make a good interview and her portrait will be stunning too..This was a great interview too!

[@donnadonato527]

Excellent suggestion

[@jenniferb9506]

I can see death in her face. If only these people would understand that we're all alone here. We only have ourselves to control. I know first hand how difficult it is to stop active addiction but you do have choices.

[@rachelb.8701]

I live near Pittsburgh, I too I used to have an addiction I have now been clean from opiates and I'm at work right now I just wanted to say it's never too late u are worth it girl 🥰🥰🥰

[@KimbradleyMasterGardener]

Alyssa, You are rapidly running on borrowed time, Girl! I wish recovery for you. I hope your boys get their Mom back yet looking at your hands the odds are against them Get Well soon Nashville Tennessee USA 🇺🇸

[@jah7763]

You really had to pull the answers out of her. Compared to your more recent interviews. I pray for her. Thank you for your work Mark!

[@lakehouse9305]

Fentanyl come across the Southern border from China. Remember who tried to secure that border and who didn't.

[@miapdx503]

It's our *government* that has flooded the streets with drugs and guns, and are watching us destroy ourselves and each other. If you're looking for a boogeyman, look to government.

[@ImarynhaI]

Hi Mark! Your channel is amazing, it made me understand so much about these amazing human beings and it definitely helps raise empathy for this delicate problem. I was just thinking that it would be very kind of you not to use "prostitute" on the video title, right next to their names, as if it was a definition of who they are. It's not their profession, they never chose to do that. And I say that because "prostitute" is almost only used on women's video title, when in reality, we all know many many men also use sexual related activities in exchange to money or drugs. If they are ok talking about it on the video, good. It's part of their unimaginable hard lives. But using it on the video title is even more degrading and they definitely don't need that, right? I hope I managed to explain my view properly. Thanks for your amazing work! ❤️

[@veerodriguez1751]

I'm so glad mark does these interviews.

[@TinCupChalice40]

Marc, she said if her family came to get her she would get in the car. Contact her family and tell them to come save her. She’s willing, she just thinks they don’t care.

[@businessbuilder92]

Maybe they don't

[@MsIcollins]

One of the most profound things I’ve learned in sociology school is people are reflections of their environments if u see an environment that’s poverty stricken, lack of resources etc expecting to see a bunch of happy an healthy people walking around is absolutely crazy . I’m not surprised by the rise of drug addiction throughout this country from the media to the governmental politics the corruption an so forth why should we expect anything else . The population is a reflection of the way this country feels about the citizens who live in it

[@nunurbusinez8644]

What is “sociology school”?

[@jonboatmorava9115]

"nobody has made an attempt to come help me or find me." She's not ready to blame herself for her choices. Until then this will be her life. Sucks.

[@baublesanddolls]

She seemed more alert at the beginning of the interview, then became a lot slower toward the end. It's obvious that whatever she took prior to the interview kicked in. This is so sad. She has no intention of quitting, and is already losing her looks with teeth missing and her right hand is quite swollen. What ticks me off most are her three boys who she doesn't look after. That always gets under my skin more than anything. Time to stop thinking of yourself, being the victim, and take responsibility for your children before they're in the exact same place!!!! 🤬

[@simplyme9016]

YES

[@SuzMBooth]

If you can't do the child... close your legs.

[@aparagonwolf7057]

I think its a great thing youre doing here mark.. not only are you getting peoples stories out.. but i dont think any of these people have told anyone their story. Its probably a relief to talk about it. It probably helps open their eyes that the shit theyre doing isnt all life is. Keep up the good work Mark

[@samalw]

The guy asking the questions is a real positive influence. No offer or mention of help whatsoever.

[@greeneyesfromohio4103]

One thing I’ve always noticed about users of meth or heroin especially in women, is their hands….their always red, rough, chapped and puffy….dead giveaway for me. She is a perfect example of this.

[@DÂŽÎÈ0]

I just googled this to try and figure it out because I noticed it immediately. Apparently it happens with IV drug users.

[@skyking228]

Excellent questions, again. Always interesting, thanks!

[@shiveringnerve]

this is beautifully shot

[@clayboist]

Look at those hands. So sad.

[@myeyeswentdeaf6213]

Same hands as Moser from yesterday has.

[@Bella-gt7tu]

she’s just used to this kind of life,she needs help to get away ,she has no hope inside

[@Earthdogbonzo3]

Alyssa, I really hope and pray you find your way back into the life of clean, sober living with health, strength and a soul intact, capable of giving and receiving love.❤️

[@kieranfitzgerald9938]

I've watched a few of these interview but my heart just broke