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    RRP Special Feature: Peter and Julie Attend Fora Health's 50th Anniversary Gala

    Real Recovery Podcast, Fora Health 50th Anniversary, recovery housing grant Multnomah County, Dual Diagnosis Anonymous Oregon, GTD Go the Distance
    ​This past weekend, Julie and I had the honor of attending Fora Health's Hope and Freedom Gala, celebrating 50 years of transforming lives. The event's theme was "Disco Glam," and as you'll see from the photos, we went all out in full costume to support the cause. It was a night of fun, reconnections, and heartfelt stories from the recovery community, many of whom have been featured on our Real Recovery Podcast.

    A Night of Inspiration and Disco Glam: Celebrating 50 Years of Recovery with Fora Health

    Dr. Keith Dempsey

    Dr. Keith Dempsey

    Reverend Steve Newton

    Reverend Steve Newton

    The night’s emcee, Dr. Keith Dempsey, did an incredible job of keeping the event on track while motivating and inspiring the crowd with his energy. One of the most moving moments came when Reverend Steve Newton, who was DePaul’s first executive director, shared his experiences. DePaul, of course, being the original facility that has since transformed into what we know today as Fora Health.
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    Harry Wilson followed Reverend Newton with a powerful story of his journey to recovery. Listening to these stories of perseverance and transformation was both humbling and inspiring, reminding us why we do what we do through the Real Recovery Podcast.
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    The night continued with a thrilling auction, hosted by the ever-talented Kelly Russell, who blew us away with her ability to auction off items at lightning speed! The generosity in the room was palpable, and it was wonderful to witness people rallying around the recovery movement in such a tangible way.
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    After the auction, the prestigious Freedom Award for this year was presented to Doyle Smith, the Executive Director of Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (DDA) of Oregon. Doyle shared his remarkable story of recovery, rising from personal struggles to lead such an impactful organization. His words left everyone in the room deeply moved. You could feel the raw emotion as Doyle recounted his journey to becoming the leader of DDA, a program that has changed countless lives.
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    ​Throughout the evening, we were treated to several inspiring videos highlighting participants who have started their recovery journeys through Fora Health. One of the highlights was hearing from Addison Blackbond, a Fora Health graduate, who now works as a house manager. His story of overcoming adversity and helping others on their recovery journeys was truly inspiring. 
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    Another highlight of the evening was hearing from Jessica Varga Peterson, the Multnomah County Chair, who announced a generous $6.5 million grant to Fora Health to build much-needed recovery housing. It was a momentous announcement, underscoring Multnomah County’s strong commitment to supporting the recovery movement and the individuals whose lives are transformed through these programs.
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    ​As the event came to a close, Devarshi Bajpai, CEO of Fora Health, thanked everyone for their generous support and contributions. We felt incredibly grateful to be part of such a meaningful celebration. We also had the pleasure of running into Izzy Alvarado, Founder and Executive Director of GTD (Go the Distance), and last year’s Freedom Award recipient, which made the night even more special.
    If you haven't already, be sure to listen to past episodes of the Real Recovery Podcast, featuring some of the incredible individuals who continue to make a difference in the recovery movement. We look forward to including more of the inspiring people we met tonight in future episodes. Visit Real Recovery Podcast to hear their stories of resilience and hope.
    Peter & Julie - Real Recovery Podcast

    Peter & Julie - Real Recovery Podcast

    #RealRecoveryPodcast #HopeAndFreedomGala #ForaHealth #DiscoGlam #RecoveryMovement #TransformingLives
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    RRP Episode 32: Overcoming Generational Trauma and Addiction—Melissa Hereford’s Journey as a Two-Spirited Native American

    Discover how Melissa reclaimed her identity and healing through recovery and cultural reconnection.

    In this episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, Peter and Julie sit down with Melissa Hereford, who bravely shares her journey of overcoming addiction, domestic violence, and generational trauma. Melissa’s inspiring story as a two-spirited Native American offers a unique perspective on healing through cultural reconnection, personal resilience, and finding strength in community.
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    "Recovery isn't just about overcoming addiction; it's about embracing who you truly are, healing old wounds, and finding strength in the journey ahead."
    —Melissa Hereford
    Melissa’s Background:
    Melissa Hereford grew up on a reservation, navigating a tumultuous childhood filled with trauma, including witnessing domestic violence and struggling with her identity. She identifies as a two-spirited Native American and opens up about the challenges of growing up in an environment where trauma was ever-present.
    ​Struggles:
    Melissa shares the hardships she faced, from substance abuse to abusive relationships, and how these experiences shaped her view of herself and her life. As she explains, a turning point came when she realized she wanted to break the cycle of addiction and trauma for her children
    ​Turning Points:
    In her second attempt at recovery, Melissa reconnected with her Native American roots, including attending ceremonies and participating in cultural traditions, which played a crucial role in her healing. She speaks about her involvement with Painted Horse Recovery and the safe space it provided for her cultural and personal recovery.
    Current Work:
    Today, Melissa is an active member of the recovery community, working as a regional director at 4D Recovery in Hillsborough. She advocates for culturally specific recovery services and is passionate about helping young people and the Native American community reconnect with their cultural roots in their recovery journey. Previously, she was involved with Painted Horse Recovery, where she supported Native American women in their healing process.
    ​Melissa’s journey is a powerful reminder that recovery is not just about overcoming addiction but also about healing the deep wounds of trauma, reclaiming identity, and finding strength in cultural and community support. Her story encourages listeners to seek help, embrace their true selves, and believe in the possibility of transformation.
    #RecoveryJourney #RealRecoveryPodcast #TwoSpirited #GenerationalHealing #CulturalRecovery #AddictionRecovery #PaintedHorseRecovery #TrueColorsRecovery #HealingJourney #NativeAmericanResilience

    Coming up next...

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    RRP Episode 31: Dr. David Bohrer’s Journey from Addiction to Recovery—How Sobriety Saved His Life and Career

    From professional success to addiction struggles, Dr. David Bohrer’s inspiring story of recovery shows the resilience of the human spirit.

    Dr. David Bohrer recovery story, overcoming addiction podcast, Real Recovery Podcast episode 31, chiropractor addiction recovery, inspiring addiction recovery stories

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    In this episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, we’re honored to welcome Dr. David Bohrer, a chiropractor who once enjoyed tremendous professional success but faced the devastating impact of addiction. David candidly shares his journey from being on top of the world to nearly losing everything, and how the power of sobriety helped him reclaim his life and career. His story is filled with wisdom, lessons learned, and hope for anyone walking the difficult path of recovery.
    Dr. David Bohrer’s Background:
    Dr. Bohrer’s career as a chiropractor was thriving. He was the youngest in his graduating class, owned a successful chiropractic practice, and even partnered in a Gold’s Gym. From the outside, he had it all—financial success, a beautiful home, and the career he’d worked so hard to build. However, his personal life began to unravel when he fell into a cycle of addiction.
    As Dr. Bohrer explains, his addiction started out small but quickly escalated:
    "Pretty soon, this professional life and party life blurred together. Before I knew it, they had overlapped completely." —Dr. David Bohrer
    His story reflects the common battle that so many in the recovery community face—struggling to maintain a double life while addiction takes a greater hold.
    "Pretty soon, this professional life and party life blurred together. Before I knew it, they had overlapped completely." —Dr. David Bohrer
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    Turning Point and Struggles:
    David’s wake-up call came when his health deteriorated significantly. He found himself in the ICU with heart failure, realizing his life was at serious risk. This terrifying experience pushed him toward the decision to seek recovery. Dr. Bohrer candidly shares how hard it was to come to terms with the idea that he needed help. Despite these struggles, his perseverance led him to treatment at Hazelden, a program that gave him the tools to begin his recovery journey.
    "The biggest thing I had to admit was that I was powerless, and that knowing where I'm powerless is actually my strength." —Dr. David Bohrer
    ​The Role of Recovery Communities:
    David also touches on the importance of the recovery communities that supported him throughout his journey. He speaks highly of the East County Alano Club (ECAC), which played a pivotal role in his sobriety. This was also where he connected with his sponsor, Don, who became a source of strength and guidance during the most challenging moments.
    Additionally, he talks about how the Gresham AA Lunch Bunch became his safe haven, a place where he could connect with others in recovery and reinforce his commitment to sobriety.
    Life in Recovery Today:
    Since becoming sober, Dr. Bohrer’s life has taken a dramatic turn for the better. He emphasizes the importance of living with gratitude, maintaining relationships, and giving back through service. His message is clear: sobriety isn’t just about getting clean, it’s about rebuilding a meaningful life.
    "I used to think I was bulletproof. But the truth is, sobriety gave me the strength to face my weaknesses—and that’s when my life truly started to change." 
    —Dr. David Bohrer
    Key Takeaways and Impact:
    Dr. Bohrer’s story is one of resilience, humility, and the profound impact that recovery can have on someone’s life. His message to the Real Recovery community is that no matter how far down the road of addiction you may be, there is always hope for healing and transformation. He encourages listeners to reach out, find support, and commit to doing the work of recovery.
    ​Tune in to this powerful episode of the Real Recovery Podcast and hear Dr. David Bohrer’s incredible journey firsthand. You won’t want to miss his inspiring story of redemption and the powerful lessons he shares. Listen now at Real Recovery Podcast.
    #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryJourney #RealRecoveryPodcast #OvercomingAddiction #Inspiration #Sobriety
    Join Our Community: Follow, Review, and ​Support Us on Social Media
    Your engagement is what fuels our passion and keeps this podcast thriving. Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for updates and behind-the-scenes content. Subscribe & Follow us in your favorite Podcatcher or Podcast Player and please rate us and leave a review! Let’s continue this journey together, one episode at a time!​​​​​

    Coming up next...

    ​Our next episode of the Real Recovery Podcast features the powerful story of Melissa Hereford, a courageous woman who has overcome incredible challenges on her journey to recovery. In this heartfelt conversation, Melissa opens up about generational trauma, her identity as a two-spirited Native American, and her experiences overcoming addiction and abusive relationships. Her story serves as a reminder that transformation is always possible through healing and self-acceptance. Don't miss this inspiring episode!
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    Join Real Recovery Podcast at the Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery Event!

    Julie and Peter from the Real Recovery Podcast will be live at the Walk for Recovery event with microphones for shout-outs!

    Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery, Real Recovery Podcast, Portland recovery event, Walk to Recovery 2024, Pioneer Courthouse Square recovery event, recovery shout-outs, recovery community event Portland, addiction recovery walk, Peter and Julie podcast, Oregon recovery event
    We’re excited to announce that the Real Recovery Podcast will be participating in the Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery event on Saturday, September 28th, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland, OR. Peter and Julie will be there with microphones ready for podcast shout-outs, offering a unique opportunity for you to share your message of hope, support, and recovery.
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    ​What is the Walk for Recovery?
    The Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery is a powerful community event that brings together individuals and families impacted by addiction. The goal is to walk together towards a brighter future, raising awareness about the importance of recovery, and providing support to those still in the process. The event celebrates the recovery journey while encouraging broader conversations about the resources available for those struggling with addiction.
    Why You Should Join Us:
    This isn’t just another walk! It’s a chance for you to connect with others, share your story, and be a part of something bigger. Peter and Julie will be set up with microphones, and we want YOU to be featured on an upcoming episode of the Real Recovery Podcast! Whether you’re walking for yourself, a loved one, or simply to show support for the recovery community, we’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections on the day at the Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery.
    Event Details:
    • Date: Saturday, September 28th, 2024
    • Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
    • Location: Pioneer Courthouse Square, Portland, OR
    For more information and event registration, visit: Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery Event.
    This event marks an incredible opportunity to support the recovery community and connect with those who have been impacted by addiction. Whether you’re new to the Real Recovery Podcast or a longtime listener, we’d love to see you at the Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery event! Together, we’ll walk towards hope, healing, and a brighter future.
    Don’t forget to stop by the Real Recovery Podcast booth at the event, say hi to Peter and Julie, and share your story on the podcast. Let’s celebrate recovery and help spread a message of hope. We can’t wait to meet you at the Oregon Recovers Walk to Recovery!
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    RRP XTRA 030.5: Madison Shanley—Singing Her Way Through Recovery and Self-Discovery

    ​Exploring Recovery, Music, and Self-Discovery with Madison Shanley

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    On September 6th, 2024, the Real Recovery Podcast had the pleasure of attending the 2024 Recover Outloud Concert and Speaker Recovery Event at the Avenue Event Center in Portland, OR. The event brought together musicians, performers, recovery speakers, and vendors, all celebrating the power of recovery through community and expression. Among the many talented performers was Madison Shanley, a rising star in the Portland music scene, who graced the stage with her soulful voice and deep connection to the recovery journey.
    ​Madison Shanley, a singer-songwriter, shared her personal recovery story and how it has influenced her music career. Having started singing at the age of five, Madison’s journey took a profound turn when she got clean and sober nearly three years ago. During her interview with Peter B. and Julie L. at the event, she reflected on how her sobriety gave her the space to process her emotions and create music that reflects self-discovery, healing, and spiritual growth.
    Madison also emphasized the importance of the Portland recovery community in supporting her journey, particularly in her first year of sobriety. She explained that attending meetings and connecting with other individuals in recovery has kept her grounded and inspired her music. Her performances, both at the Recover Outloud event and beyond, reflect this deep connection to her own recovery and the wider community.
    ​This episode is the first in a series of Recover Outloud interviews. Look forward to our next episode, which will feature an interview with Futuristic, a talented rapper and advocate for the recovery community. You can follow Futuristic on Instagram and listen to his music on Spotify.
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    Madison Shanley’s story is a powerful reminder of the healing potential of music and community. Her journey from recovery to music creation serves as an inspiration to many, and her soulful performances at the Recover Outloud event resonated deeply with the audience. Be sure to listen to the full episode of Madison’s interview and follow her musical journey on Spotify and Apple Music. Stay tuned for more episodes from Recover Outloud, including our upcoming conversation with Futuristic.
    Don’t miss out on the upcoming Recover Outloud episodes! Follow the Real Recovery Podcast on Spotify and join us as we share more inspiring stories from this empowering event.
    #RRPXTRA, #RealRecoveryPodcast, #MadisonShanley, #RecoverOutloud, #RecoveryThroughMusic, #PortlandRecoveryCommunity, #SelfDiscovery
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    RRP Episode 30: Transforming Oregon’s Addiction Crisis—Mike Marshall on Recovery Advocacy, Policy Change, and Building Stronger Communities

    How Oregon Recovers is Leading the Charge for Change in Addiction Treatment and Recovery

    In this episode of the Real Recovery Podcast, co-hosts Peter and Julie sit down with Mike Marshall, the Executive Director of Oregon Recovers, for an eye-opening discussion on the addiction crisis in Oregon. Mike shares his personal recovery journey, as well as the incredible work being done to improve access to treatment, advocate for policy change, and organize the recovery community. Mike’s story is both inspiring and a powerful call to action for everyone impacted by addiction.
    "The recovery community isn't just about those of us in recovery—it's about our friends, families, and the people who take care of us."
    —Mike Marshall
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    ​Mike’s Journey and the Founding of Oregon Recovers:
    Mike Marshall has dedicated his life to recovery advocacy after overcoming his own struggles with addiction. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of community support. Mike founded Oregon Recovers in 2017 with the goal of addressing Oregon’s addiction crisis by organizing the recovery community and pushing for necessary policy changes. As Mike says, "The recovery community isn't just about those of us in recovery—it's about our friends, families, and the people who take care of us." —Mike Marshall
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    ​Addressing the Addiction Crisis in Oregon:
    Oregon faces one of the highest addiction rates in the country, yet ranks last in access to treatment. Mike explains how Oregon Recovers is tackling this crisis head-on through advocacy and organizing efforts. By engaging with policymakers, hosting events like the Walk for Recovery, and raising awareness, Oregon Recovers is empowering the recovery community to create real change.
    The Role of Recovery Housing:
    One of the key elements in Oregon Recovers' mission is the expansion of recovery housing. Mike explains that while traditional treatment options are important, recovery housing offers individuals a safe and supportive environment as they transition back into everyday life. By connecting recovery housing with outpatient programs like those offered through the Recovery Network of Oregon, the organization is helping more people maintain long-term sobriety.
    ​Preventing Addiction and Changing the Culture:
    Mike emphasizes the importance of prevention and cultural change in combating addiction. He speaks passionately about the need to challenge the pervasive role of alcohol and drugs in our society, particularly in media and advertising. 
    "We live in a society where alcohol is celebrated for every occasion, and it’s time to rethink that. We need to educate our communities about the real harms and start promoting healthier, substance-free lifestyles."
    —Mike Marshall
    Portland Walk for Recovery 2024:
    Join Oregon Recovers at the upcoming Portland Walk for Recovery 2024 on Saturday, September 28th, 2024 from 10:00am - 2:00pm at Pioneer Courthouse Square - Portland, OR. This event brings together individuals in recovery, their families, friends, and advocates to walk in support of recovery. It’s a powerful demonstration of solidarity and an opportunity to celebrate the strength of the recovery community. Register for the walk at the official Walk for Recovery page.
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    ​Conclusion:
    This episode with Mike Marshall is a powerful reminder that recovery is not just an individual journey—it’s a collective responsibility. By organizing the recovery community, advocating for policy changes, and building stronger support systems, Oregon Recovers is making a real difference in the fight against addiction. As Mike says, "Recovery is about more than just staying sober—it's about creating a life worth living for everyone impacted by addiction." —Mike Marshall

    Coming up next...

    On the next Real Recovery Podcast, we’re excited to bring you Dr. David Bohrer! Dr. Bohrer, a chiropractor with a remarkable journey through addiction and recovery, opens up about his struggles, the turning points in his life, and how he found the strength to rebuild from the ground up. His candid story offers hope, resilience, and inspiration for anyone on their own recovery journey. Don’t miss this powerful and uplifting episode! 
    #RealRecoveryPodcast, #OregonRecovers, #AddictionRecovery, #WalkForRecovery, #RecoveryHousing, #MikeMarshall, #CommunitySupport, #MentalHealth, #AddictionCrisis, #SoberLiving, #RecoveryJourney