Cyndy Feasel: Tackling the Hidden Dangers of Brain Injury and Addiction
I just want to continually honor his life by talking about the things that he had to struggle with, and so it was never about exploiting him.
Ever thought about the hidden dangers lurking behind the glitz and glamour of professional sports? In this episode of 'The Addiction Podcast - Point of No Return', Cyndy Feasel shares a poignant story that uncovers a harsh reality. Married to Grant Feasel, a former NFL player for the Seattle Seahawks, Cyndy faced the devastating consequences of brain injuries and addiction. Grant’s career was marred by repetitive trauma and symptomatic concussions, leading him down a dark path of drugs and alcohol.
Sadly, this deadly mix culminated in his untimely death nine years ago. Now, Cyndy is on a mission to educate others about the perilous link between brain injury and substance abuse. Cyndy opens up about her own struggles and the immense challenges she faced in trying to help Grant. She delves into the emotional toll it took on their family and the desperate measures they took to find effective treatment.
From traditional 12-step programs to innovative alternative approaches, Cyndy discusses the evolving landscape of addiction recovery. Her insights are not just personal but also serve as a call to action for better education and awareness around CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy) and its impact on athletes. Listeners will gain valuable takeaways, including the importance of self-care in recovery and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on addiction treatment.
Cyndy’s story is a stark reminder that addiction doesn’t just affect the individual but ripples through families and communities. Her mission is clear: to honor Grant’s life by shedding light on the struggles he faced and to prevent others from experiencing similar fates. Tune in for a heartfelt episode that combines personal anecdotes with broader insights, making it a must-listen for anyone touched by addiction or concerned about brain injuries in sports.