From Prisoner to Advocate: Chantel Huel's Transformative Journey
Episode Overview
Chantel Huel shares her journey from crime to advocacy. Discusses coercive addiction treatment and its impact. Reflects on recovery starting in prison. Highlights the importance of giving a voice to incarcerated women. Shares experiences with Trap House Testimonies.
I woke up and my daughter was my cellmate. I got picked up for attempted murder. I was like, oh, hey, whoa, you outdid me.
Chantel Huel's journey from a life of crime to becoming a passionate prisoner advocate is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode of 'Hard Knox Talks: Sober Stories. Real Talk.', Chantel opens up about her transformation, which began at Pine Grove Correctional Center in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. As an ex-convict and retired gangster, she shares her unique perspective on recovery and the societal dynamics that shaped her narrative.
Chantel discusses the controversial topic of coercive addiction treatment, sharing her concerns while also acknowledging that her recovery began during incarceration. Her heartfelt reflections on the women still behind bars, who often lack a voice, are both moving and thought-provoking. Chantel's story is filled with raw honesty as she recalls the moment she decided to get sober – waking up to find her daughter as her cellmate and making a promise to her dying mother to change her life.
The conversation also touches on Chantel's work with her Facebook platform, Trap House Testimonies, where she continues to advocate for better treatment for incarcerated women. She recounts how presenting to prison wardens and interacting with influential figures has shaped her advocacy work. This episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength required to turn one's life around.
Chantel's story is a testament to the impact of compassionate intervention and the importance of giving a voice to those who are often silenced. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that challenges conventional views on addiction and recovery. If you're looking for a story that combines personal struggle with triumphant advocacy, this episode is a must-listen. Chantel's journey will leave you questioning the effectiveness of current addiction treatment strategies and inspired by the possibilities of recovery.