I have been clean and sober for 12,410 days

I have been clean and sober for 12,410 days

Tom's story is a testament to the strength and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. In this episode of Proud Voices, co-hosts Kaylee Hoaby and Luke Miller sit down with Tom, a Pride Institute alumni who has been sober for an incredible 34 years. Tom's journey began with heavy drinking during his college years, which continued into his early adulthood. He first walked through the doors of Pride Institute in 1987, expecting a harsh, prison-like environment.

Instead, he found a welcoming community where LGBTQ+ individuals were living their truths during the tumultuous HIV/AIDS crisis of the 1980s. Tom got sober on October 3rd, 1987, and his story is one of perseverance and the power of community support. The hosts delve into the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals dealing with substance use disorder and addiction.

Tom reflects on his time at Pride Institute, emphasizing how it was the first place he saw people like him living openly and authentically. He also highlights the importance of community and support in his recovery journey, sharing how AA meetings helped him maintain sobriety even while traveling for work. Kaylee and Luke explore Tom's experiences with relationships in sobriety, including the difficult but necessary step of cutting out toxic friendships.

The episode wraps up with Tom reminding us that sobriety is a continuous journey focused on personal growth and community building. This episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength within the LGBTQ+ community.