How Deeply Stigma Trumps Substance Use Disorder

“I want to thank the Justice Department for seeing this, this horrible thing... And I didn’t speak them by the way, just so you understand. They saw the horribleness of a nine year sentence for doing nothing... You have murderers and drug addicts- they don’t get nine years. Nine years for doing something that no one can even define what he did.” -President Trump

Larkspur Conservation at Taylor Hollow

Just about a year ago Antony and I ventured out to Larkspur Conservation at Taylor Hollow, Tennessee’s first Natural Burial Ground.

We met John Christian Phifer and he took us on a tour of the land. We also made a short documentary about the land and work they’re doing at Larkspur. That short film is at the end of this blog.

Six months ago everything got turned upside down when my cousin died.

A life changed

In December 2014 I met a man who helped change my life. I walked in to my very first 12 step meeting and it was obvious to this man I’ve never been in a place like this before. To steal a phrase often used by Robin Williams, I looked like a deer in front of a Peterbilt.

Honest Talk Continues

I got honest earlier today on a call with a new but definitely lifelong friend. Her name is Cindy and she is A-MAZ-ING! 

As we build all the components of this documentary through research, conversation and interviews I am painfully aware of something I’ve heard a lot about but never really looked into for understanding.