The Loss of Wonderland

Have you ever encountered a life-altering incident that completely transformed the trajectory of your existence? I most certainly have. Allow me to recount my personal tale of how an old wrestling injury propelled me down a treacherous path of addiction.

It all commenced with a wrestling injury I sustained many years ago. Back then, I didn't pay much heed to it. Little did I know that this seemingly trivial occurrence would wield such a profound influence over my life. I found myself entangled in a predicament where I required surgery to rectify the enduring consequences of my wrestling injury. However, my insurance provider callously refused to cover the expenses, deeming it a pre-existing condition. This left me utterly devastated and searching for relief.

The Demise of Wonderland:

Due to my inability to afford the necessary surgery, I was prescribed 6 medications that I became dependent to and then ultimately addicted. I was compelled to shutter my business, Wonderland. For over a decade I had successfully operated this enterprise, serving as the primary supplier of glass inventory. It was my pride and joy, and now it lay in ruins.

With the loss of my business, I descended into a state of despair. The excruciating pain from my wrestling injury became unbearable, and I sought solace in something that could alleviate my suffering. That's when I turned to pain medication.

Initially, the pain medication provided some relief. However, as time elapsed, I found myself becoming reliant on it. I couldn't function without it. What began as a means to manage my pain swiftly transformed into a full-fledged addiction, running out of medication early and buying extra off the street. It never became enough and the constant fear of withdrawal paralyzed me mentally and physically. It made me anxious and scared beyond words.

As my addiction tightened its grip, I forfeited more than just my business. I relinquished my flameworking tools, the very instruments that enabled me to craft exquisite glass pieces. But most significantly, I lost my torch, the emblem of my passion and creativity.

Amidst the engulfing darkness, a flicker of hope emerged. I realized that I needed to seek assistance and liberate myself from the shackles of addiction. It was an arduous journey, but with the unwavering support of my loved ones and the guidance of professionals, I managed to conquer my addiction.

Today, I take immense pride in proclaiming that I am in recovery. I have painstakingly reconstructed my life from the ground up, and while the scars of my past still linger, they serve as a constant reminder of the fortitude and resilience that reside within me.

 If you find yourself confronted with a similar predicament, I implore you to seek help. Addiction is a battle that no one should face alone. Remember, even in the bleakest of times, there is always a glimmer of hope.