Trey Harbaugh: From Heart Surgeries to TikTok Recovery Influencer
"This is a disease, a disorder, whatever you want to call it, but for so long we've been judged on the behavior that we display in ignorance really, that the society at large doesn't realize that this behavior we're displaying is symptoms of a disorder, right like we're not, we're not bad people, we're not morally deficient."
What happens when a sports-loving teenager spirals into addiction and ends up facing life-altering surgeries? Meet Trey Harbaugh, a TikTok sensation with over 110k followers who’s turning his painful past into a beacon of hope for others. In this episode of 'Hard Knox Talks', Trey opens up about his tumultuous journey from prescription painkillers to enduring two open-heart surgeries and the amputation of both legs due to his addiction.
Now 19 months sober, Trey’s story is one of resilience, love, and the power of community support. Trey dives into the crucial role his family played in his recovery, especially his mother who stood by him during his darkest hours. He stresses that addiction isn’t a moral failing but a disease that requires compassion and understanding.
Using his social media platform, Trey advocates for substance use disorder awareness, fighting stigma and educating his audience about the dangers of prescription drug abuse. The episode is not just about Trey's past struggles; it's also about his current mission. Trey discusses how sharing personal stories on platforms like TikTok can create a sense of community and make others feel less alone. His message is clear: recovery is possible, and no one should have to face it alone.
Tune in to hear Trey’s heartfelt conversation on 'Hard Knox Talks'. His journey from the depths of addiction to becoming a recovery influencer is sure to inspire anyone grappling with similar challenges or supporting someone who is.