Andrew Hager: From Addiction to Advocacy and Finding True Identity
When he was Five Years Old, he would ask his mother: why don’t my daddy love me, man, you know. You know, that’s the kind of daddy I was, you know, and as a father, you’re supposed you know a fish.
Andrew Hager’s past is anything but a laughing matter, yet his humor and lightheartedness shine through as he shares his story of addiction and recovery. In this episode of The Real HopeCast, Hager, a 50-year-old native of Irishtown, opens up about his journey from substance use disorder to becoming a beacon of hope for others struggling with similar issues.
Hager's path to sobriety began during his incarceration in Fayette County, where he found the support he needed to turn his life around. Today, he is not only sober but also a passionate advocate for treatment and recovery initiatives, hosting a weekly Facebook Live show and organizing events like the Blameless Children event in Versailles. This gathering brings together children affected by their parents' addiction to share their experiences and find support.
Hager's story is deeply personal; he has seen the devastating impact of addiction on his own family, even serving time in prison with two of his sons. He candidly discusses how his past choices influenced their lives but also how he is using those experiences to motivate others. Through his advocacy work, Hager emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, sharing personal stories, and making treatment options accessible for everyone.
His faith has been a cornerstone of his recovery, helping him overcome feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. Hager’s story is one of resilience and hope, reminding us that it’s never too late to start the journey toward healing. Tune in to hear how Andrew Hager found his true identity and is now helping others do the same.