On Episode 36 I’m talking to Theresa Adkison, the founder of Derek’s Place (Facebook). Theresa talks about her son Derek from his rambunctious boyhood, through the ups and downs of his adolescence, to his adulthood as a father and hard worker. Through the whole story, she talks about how substance use disorder was also part of his story. Derek lost his battle with addiction in January 2018.

I cannot tell you how honored I feel that Theresa trusted me with her story. She is an incredible person who walks with grief and loss everyday. She has chosen to use her story to help others and has big dreams for Derek’s Place, a Recovery Cafe. I know you’ll want to support her in this work. Derek’s Place is modeled on a Recovery Cafe in Seattle. Theresa wants to create a space for people who struggle with homelessness and substance use disorder where they feel seen and loved.

Theresa talks about a book she loves called Read It Till You Believe It. She carries this powerful little book around with her. It would be the perfect gift for someone you know experiencing loss and grief. She also likes the boo You Are Enough. If you resonate with Theresa’s story, you might want to connect with Families Against Narcotics.

Theresa talked about her favorite things including getting a pedicure, spending time with family and friends, traveling, her grandchildren and being near the ocean. She also talked about how helpful art therapy has been through I Light Art Therapy Studio.

Theresa’s story is so powerful. I hope you’ll listen to each and every word of her story because there is someone you know that is also living the stress and grief and loneliness of substance use disorder. Take the middle seat! They need you to see them and listen to them.