Examining Rehab 2 With Dr. Drew - Episode 6
Our scene-specific blog commentary on Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew continues. Below, the doctor talks about the main points of the episode, among them: Friends & Family weekend, Amber’s checkered past and a breakthrough with Gary that didn’t make it to air.
Before we talk about the episode, I want to ask you a question that regularly crops up in the blog comments, but that I’ve never asked you: why are the patients allowed to indulge in their smoking addictions?
In California, I’m required by law to give people a place to smoke. It’s in what’s called Patient’s Rights. I offer every single patient CHANTIX and most of them refuse it. Brigitte Nielsen from last season is the only one who successfully stopped smoking also. Although the old wisdom in addiction treatment was that you deal with the smoking later, current research shows that you’re more likely to stay off your drug of choice if you address smoking at the same time. So I address it with every single one, but I’m obliged by law to let them kill themselves with cigarettes.
Also, Mary Carey showed up on an online extra recently, and hers is not necessarily a “success story.” She says that she’s “60 percent better.” Did you bring her in to show the current patients that rehabilitation is an ongoing process?
Yes. It’s important for them to see her ongoing struggle and to look at rehab realistically. Even somebody who’s motivated has trouble getting all the way there.
So, the biggest revelation in this episode is Amber’s prostitution past.
Something that didn’t get on camera happened when I was talking to Amber’s mom while she was being treated at the hospital. That hospital eventually stopped allowing us to bring in cameras. I addressed this with the mom and she said, “Well, [the johns] were nicer to her than anybody.” My god, you know? You try to survive when you’re an addict, you’ll go to any length.
Tawny’s response is, “I’m mad at your mom.”
She was angry with Amber’s mom for empathic failure, for dealing with Amnber like an object and not a person. But what came out of that was that Tawny started talking about how angry her daughter must have been with her. I thought that was pretty interesting that it kinda cuts both ways. It’s never black and white with relationships and addiction. Everyone has their role to play.
Is Friends & Family Weekend helpful for you in giving these people treatment? Does it allow you to sort out their family situations, since up till then, you’re often just hearing it from one side?
Yes, it’s always very different from the family’s perspective. And I’m always ready to hear it. It’s an interpersonal disorder, so it effects everybody and everybody needs to participate.
Rodney’s daughters couldn’t make the Friends & Family Weekend, but you brought them in anyway. Why was it so important to have them in?
Rodney’s ashamed of his addiction and he hides it. It’s important that he lets his daughters see him all the time because they will help him in his recovery. He didn’t want to see his dad drinking, and his assumption is his daughters don’t want to see him drinking, either. In reality, they want to be around him no matter what his condition is. They get scared to death when he disappears because then they know he’s drinking.
At the start of the weekend, Amber’s mom passes out. How was her recovery coming along at that point?
She’d just come out of the ICU, She was just barely up and around. I had her on five different blood-pressure medications. She became overcome by the heat, her blood pressure dropped and she passed out. Up to that point, she was coming along slow and steady. I was looking forward to working with her during the family groups. But it was OK. She was committing to treatment, going to meetings and following directions.
Did talking to anyone at Friends & Family besides Gary leave any great impression on you?
While I was talking to Nikki and her husband, her kids were sitting inside the mansion at the window. Tawny and her daughter were very powerful. I admire the daughter’s courage: wherever we wanted to go, she as ready. Tawny wasn’t as comfortable. With Steven and his wife, I told her: “Steven’s going on tour? He’s dead. You’re standing over his grave. What do you say? How do you feel?” We eulogized him. and the whole time, Steven was saying, “Naw man, don’t do that. Don’t go there.” But we did it.
What follows is service on the beach Did you hold it on a beach because the restaurant was such a trigger for Brigitte last season?
Yeah. Although, Shawn and Steven just took off and went in the water. They’re patients. They’re on a field trip, but they’re still expected to play by the rules. Basic compliance with the program.
The show ends with dinner. When Gary toasts, he talks about his personal journey, how he finally reached his point of knowing that he needed rehab. Was this a breakthrough for him, or is it just the first time the at-home audience is seeing him say this?
That was where Gary was. I wasn’t surprised he stood up and said that, especially after this profound moment he and I shared the day before at the Friends & Family workshop. It was one of the most positive moments out the show’s entire run for me. You know, Gary had one positive moment with his dad, where he acknowledged that Gary was a competent person. I said, “Gary, I see that in you.” And he froze because no one besides his dad had been able to reach in and touch him like that. I was able to channel Gary’s father for him and he went into a fugue state. He just froze. He didn’t come out of it for a few minutes and then once he did, he said, “Oh my god, I’m seeing things more clearly. I’m more accepting of things. I’m imagining a bog of ice melting and witches flying away. It was a very powerful moment. For me, that’s why I carry a special relationship with Gary. At that moment, he and I formed a very mutual bond.
Related content
Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew show page
Celebrity Rehab videos and extras
November 30th, 2008 at 3:31 pm
After watching the show for a second time, I want to say way to go Dr. Drew!! I know that there is a lot going on behind the scenes we aren’t aware of and how difficult it must be to get every aspect of recovery on one show. As the daughter of an alcoholic mother. I thank you. I have not seen my mother in 21 years, I hear from her on occasion. At this point I don’t kow if she is alive ofr dead.Having grown up without a mother ,the word mom or momma is a very foreign word to me.My Dad won father of the year by default. I have struggled with the idea of addiction & whether or not it’s a disease or a choice. I feel like at some point that I have heard evey one step line that there is. I have no doubt that this is a very helpful tool in recovery & praise people who have the courage to go.I have had times where I look at this as totally selfish,how you can live in your disease & everday it’s all about you, then in recovery it’s all about you.As a child it is hard to understand, hell as an adult it’s hard to understand. I kniow that as an adult I will never have a relationship with my estanged mother. She was only apart of my life for such a short time.We only lived under the same roof until I was 5. I do wish that she would in some way find peace.So thanks Dr. Drew for allowing me to see that.
November 30th, 2008 at 5:18 pm
I just wanted to thank u for doing a real show about recovery, I am a recovery addict clean for 3 years! But it took me 12 years to get 3 years I would always get clean but wouldn’t stay clean, I found recovery in NA and I strongly recommend it for anyone wanting help, I enjoy your show because its real, with real people and real problems, that has caused them to use for years, I myself am struggling w/writing a letter w/my therapist and sponsor to my uncle who sexually abused me when we were using and now I am getting flash backs about and and I know if Im going to stay clean I have to do this. It sucks and its very very very uncomfortable to talk about! But Ive learned in recover that we are only as sick as our secrets, anyway I support every one of your patients for even trying to get better, like we say in the rooms of Narcotics Anonymous ” the only requirement is the desire to stop using” Rock on guys and Dr. Drew!
November 30th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
hi, my comment is for gary busey. i grew up watching him, and have always liked his movies. wanted to say am glad he is getting the help he needs, keep up your chin, am praying for you. hope to see you in the future on the big screen!
November 30th, 2008 at 7:48 pm
We are true fans of Celebrity Rehab. Thanks Dr. Drew.
We just want to say that Amber is going to have the hardest time staying sober because of the guilt that her mother throws at her. It is obvious that her mother does not want to stay sober and she is playing games with Amber. I know it will be hard, but Amber just hang in there. You have done the right thing. Like Dr. Drew said last week, you have to be the child. You have been the parent way too long. I know that you love your mother and always will, but you have to think about your life and your happiness. It is up to your mother to make her decision to get sober herself. I pray for you and your mother both.
November 30th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
I’m currently overcomming an eating disorder, social anxiety, o.c.d, and a marijuana and pain pill addiction.As I watch the show your patients actions are like a copy of my own. Right now I’m in the anger stage of recovery and I was just wondering what’s next?
November 30th, 2008 at 11:13 pm
Watching this show has been a real eye opener on many levels.
I was utterly shocked that Sean Stewart had NO ONE to come to family day. No wonder that young man is utterly screwed up. Can’t you contact his family and express to them their need to attend?
Poor Amber. She has achieved so much, despite her own mother.
God help, Steven! 23 prior rehab’s. Can he stay with you for about a year?
November 30th, 2008 at 11:14 pm
I’m amazed at how strong Amber is, and how honest she is with herself and others. I think she’s a person with so much potential - especially since she seems to be facing her demons head on, even though that must be pretty scary. I wish all the participants well, but I’m especially rooting for Amber…she seems like a really good person who might one day make a great counsellor, herself.
December 1st, 2008 at 11:00 am
Amber it took great courage to bare your soul,,,I pray your feeling well soon. Dont worry to much about your mom. Mother and daughter relationships are complicated,,be true to yourself,,and dont let her bring you down..Mother make huge mistakes,,,but we try to love them anyway. Keep up the good work,,and thank you for you honesty…I was inspired,,Mary from Colorado <
December 1st, 2008 at 11:09 am
Being a recovering addict myself, I can relate on some level to each and every person on the show. My heart goes out to some, and I have no pity for the rest. As with any rehab, there are some who really do want recovery and some who don’t. Everyone has their own reasons for being there. Recovery is about change. If a person is not willing to change their ways, they are
bound to fail. I can pick out the people on the show who will definitley fail. They will go home and be getting high again in no time because they aren’t willing to change. You cannot keep doing the same things over and over and expect different results each time. When you keep doing as you did,
you keep getting what you got. And it’s called, MISERY!!!!!! Addiction is definitely a cunning and baffling disease, and you are never cured. However, you can recover and lead a normal life, if
you are willing to change and listen to people who know what they are doing and want to help you.
Nobody says it’s going to be easy at first, but in time it does get easier. You have to learn to live a whole different way. The easy part is stopping the drugs. The hard part is learning to live without them. I say all if this from experience. It took me a few relapses and alot of misery before I started to listen to what people were telling me. I finally stopped blaming everyone for my addictions and started blaming myself. I was the one who wouldn’t stop, so it was my fault. When I finally realized that much, I think I finally began to get better. My prayers are with Dr. Dru and all the people who dedicate their lives to helping addicts and also to any addict out there who is suffering and who is in recovery.
December 1st, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Every person on earth including me is vulnerable to addiction. I feel for all of you. Jeff, I know you said you were verbally, physically and sexually abused. The thing is, I was too. I’ve had my problems in life(61 years old) and it took me to get 50 years old to realize that what’s past is past. You have to forgive and move forward in life. Try it, it works. Also, I think you and Vickie are bad for each other. You need a lady that is strong, kind and can make you feel secure (not anyone with addiction problems).
December 1st, 2008 at 5:57 pm
Steven, you remind me so much of someone I loved very much who ended up committing suicide. He was a great and talented guitarist and we reconnected again in the late 90s after losing touch for 8 years or so. He was the self-described black sheep of his family. His name was Jim. When I saw him again at an old friend’s house I had no idea that he had been sober (or ever had a drug problem) for a couple of years. I was drinking pretty heavily at that point and I said “Let’s have a shot of tequila like we used to when we were in the show together! (Tommy-a Rock Opera) He did and we barely spent a weekend apart after that up until we got in a fight, he hung up on me and hung himself that Sunday. I feel so much guilt about it still, after 8 years now. Every time I see your face, I think of him, (you have such similar eyes) and I can’t tell you how much I wish for you to take care of yourself, and value yourself. I miss Jim so much all the time, and I don’t want your beautiful and sweet wife to miss you in that way ever. Please take care of yourself and I am pulling for you here…
December 1st, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Dr. Drew, I can appreciate the struggles you go through and the passion that you have. I am a registered nurse in the Neuroscience department. A lot of my patients have had strokes because of alcohol addiction. It is very hard to see the strain on the family and the struggles the patient is going through after the event. I come from an alcoholic family and am a recovering anoexic bulemic. Addiction is everyone and education needs to be taught to doctors, nurses, and family so the stigma around the medication and treatment can be dissolved. My dream would be to open up a treatment center, or settle to work in one, but I enjoy following you and your steps to helping addicts. If you ever have an opening let me know!
December 1st, 2008 at 7:20 pm
To Steven I want to tell him how much I admire what he is doing—-saving his life! You are such a talented man, the way you takl with the others-the way your eyes sparkle when you connect with another-there is so much in “there”. You are so alive–and have so much to offer the world–besides music–you are unique, and funny, and have such a “light” Your wife sees it–she just shines when she’s around you-and they way your eyes see into hers, just makes me want to weep-with the love I see you have for each other–forget your mom–let go of what she has done–she will have to live with it all–she knows what she did, and because she has not taken responsibility for all of her actions, to you–just shows that she knows she is wrong. Some people just can’t admit that they have done awful things. You have riends who love you and care about you, and a wife who adores you–keep mom at a distance-because she is your mom, but honor those around you who are there for you. You matter. You are special. You are loved.
To Sean———–Have you tried to involve your mum and dad in your life? I know you have probably tried in the past, but keep trying. You obviously “woke” up one day and decided to become a better person, and to change things–I know they are supposed to be the ones who reach out to you, but sometimes you have to demand to be heard–for them to notice you–when your quiet for so long-you tend to become invisible. You are a vital person in this world–you came into this world for a reason, use this knowlege that you have — to maybe talk to others, especially younger kids, maybe foster care, Big Brothers–you would be amazed at how much attention that they crave, and how interested they would be in you. You are still young and “cool”–the kids would really benefit from you. You may think that you have nobody who cares–well I’m not nobody and I care–I have enjoyed your dads music for years, and I am saddened by what you went through–you need to sit them down (your parents) and lay it on the line–don’t give them a choice. They had their chance at life-nows it’s your turn. They owe you as your parents to hear you out, and include you, and notice you, and allow them to hear what they did caused you such pain and uncertainty for your own self. You are very brave to be so honest, and to be on TV. I have many friends who have similiar stories about abandonment, and not getting close to anyone–this happens way to often–you are NOT alone. You benefit from the people around you, and know that there are many people out here rooting for you to become the man we all know you can be. Stay Strong.
December 1st, 2008 at 7:26 pm
Dr Drew
You are a good man..What I have noticed in your show is a blame game..its others faults on why they are they way they are today..Your patients need to take responsibility for there actions.Stop living in the past and move on. People would LOVE to have there help there getting and have a little of there talent. Very selfish group.
Like I said your a good man
December 1st, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Hi Dr. Drew,
I love watching the new season of cr. I am 39 and have been dealing with anxiety and depression for most of my life. I so wish that there was a doctor like you where I live. I have only gone to one therapist and was basically told to get off of caffine and sugar and I would be fine. It is nice to see that there are doctors out there that truely do understand what we go through and believe what we feel. Just wanted to let you know you and the show are an inspiration to me. Thanks for doing the show. I hope everyone on there (both seasons) truely find happiness with their lives and their addictions. Something having that much control over you has to be one of the hardest things to deal with.
Much love Christy.
December 2nd, 2008 at 12:21 am
I am a 35-year-old drug addict since the age of 16. I have used and abused nearly everything, while maintaining a career and my status (what there is of one), and have seen many of friends and peers do/go much deeper than I. Attributing my “singledom” and not having kids to drugs and alcohol is both a crutch and an excuse. as well as a blessing, some may say.
Watching this show is uncomfortable to say the least. But it has given me an awareness I did not have on my own, and a humility to give into the disease. If people we deem famous enough to worship/recognize can beat and conquer addiction, then why can’t a ridiculous girl like me do the same?
I love the moment where Sean says how blessed they are to be in a place where they have each other and get the treatment they are getting. If that wasn’t Sean I apologize, because I remember the ladies being there and acknowledging his statement.
Know that this show touches all walks of life. It is AGONY for me to watch, but I record it and force myself to see what amazing things you all accomplish. Best of luck. I am depending on you all. But even if you fail, I am so proud of you for trying as hard as you are.
December 2nd, 2008 at 1:38 am
It broke my heart to see Amber’s mother complain about the (relative) lack of support that she would have after she was finished treatment and having to go to a sober living facility, both for Amber and for Carol. I can only guess that Carol was feeling a lot of regret over the past and a lot of fear over the changes that she would have to go through to stay sober. Watching her seem to try to manipulate Amber, or at least make her feel guilty, reminded me of my mother.
December 2nd, 2008 at 1:53 am
I can not stop watching the show, I am the mother of a ex drug user. I guess I keep watching trying to understand why my son turned to drugs… Lucky he was finally arrested and put in drug court and they helped him alot… They even sent him to a rehab in fullerton… it’s been six years now and my son hasn’t used he still drinks but that has even gotten better where he will only have one or two beers when he goes out every few weeks… I keep reminding him to be careful not to hang with others who use or he use to use with… Yes, back a few years ago he did fall off the wagon but rehab and drug court gave him the tools and know how to get up and start all over being sober…
But I can’t get rid of the feeling why, we were always involved in his life.. school, sports etc. we always supported him… he was a wanted and loved child… no step parnets, no parnets who drank or used.. Guess it will always be a puzzle to me and his father….. what went wrong?
December 2nd, 2008 at 3:38 am
Why do you continuosly refer to addiction as a disease? Addiction is a dependency or, at best, possibly an illness but in NO WAY is it a disease. Hepatitis is a disease. HIV is a disease. Cancer is a disease. But in NO WAY is alcaholism or drug addiction a disease. You tell addicts they have a disease and it only justifies to themselves that they are recipients of some bad luck or unwanted problem. I do, however agree that the reason why people become addicts is because of some past trauma or terrible experience.Please explain to me how that, by a person trying drugs and becomes addicted, translates into that person developing a disease.
December 2nd, 2008 at 4:39 pm
I watched the show last year (loved it) and got annoyed with the preferential treatment Jeff got over the others. I agree with Amber, Jeff is allowed to do what he wants and everyone tiptoes around him. I say no more excuses. If he wants to get better great, if not, move on. I’m sick of his antics, grow up and get with the program like everyone else. His addiction to Vikki is worse than his addiction to the drugs. I grew up in an alcoholic home and watched my poor father beg for his life at the end. I can only wish that he had the chance that Jeff has at PRC. Makes me mad that he doesn’t get it or doesn’t seem to even approciate the gift he has by being there. Rehab is for people who want to change their lives. If you continue the pitty party, your life will never change. I say focus on the ones who want to get better, Go Amber and Rodney!!!!
December 2nd, 2008 at 10:07 pm
It feels like there is an elephant in the room when I watch this show. I keep waiting for Dr. Drew to point it out and address it, but he never does. Clearly PRC is using a 12 step model and yet, all of these patients have agreed to sacrifice anonymity, a principle at the corner stone of AA. I would imagine this was a source of a great deal of controversy in planning these programs and I think a lot of people would like to hear Dr. Drew’s perspective on this.
December 3rd, 2008 at 6:46 pm
Steven: My Mom did the same to me when I was 15 - threw my clothes on the front yard and locked me out. I always did the right thing - didn’t cut class, worked at Dairy Queen, paid my own book rental, purchased my clothing and even bought her dinner. (On $3.35 an hour that means a lot of hours working.) I walked to work and school. Nothing could break me; the resilance of youth! However, when you spoke about your things being thrown out, that struck me hard. That is wrong. It hurts and will NEVER be done over right. There is no “fixing” this or changing your Mom. Trying to make her see how wrong it was and how it hurt you isn’t good. It doesn’t allow you to move on. You doubt yourself and your worth from this one incident that in a lot of ways was life changing. Just dig deep and take care of yourself. Don’t expect your Mom to admit to any wrong doing. Most likely she won’t ever. EVER! Don’t put your life on hold waiting until this happens. The time is now - move on. I vowed to never treat anyone like my Mom did and I haven’t. It’s a possibility that your Mom has an element of mental illness as does mine. Even then, it doesn’t exuse any of her wrong doings. Get fierce - do some boxing, biking, running. I started running when I was 25 and haven’t stopped. You burn the rage on the road and it’s healthy mentally as well as physically. Don’t hurt yourself any more. I don’t drink and I am not alcoholic. I have never done drugs. I have my share of doubts and low points in my 42 years for sure. My older brother is a recovering alcoholic. He drank because he wanted to punish my Mom for evertything she did. He just hurt himself and then beat himself up when she wasn’t around because it felt “normal”! Think about that…it’s simple but could be very true. Keep going. Allow those around you that love you to help - especially your wife!!
December 3rd, 2008 at 8:50 pm
Steven I see great potential in you. Don’t let your mothers lack of remorse stop you. That wife of yours loves you, and she is your family now. I’m not saying to turn your back on your mom but realize that she isn’t your future, she’s your past and one day hopefully she can say how truely sorry she is. Right now she’s caught up in being defensive. Nobody wants to be seen as a bad mother or father. When I was 10 my dad killed himself. Once when he was so depressed he was threatening suicide in front of me and my brothers unless my mom would talk to him. She agreed and I told him “Daddy if you loved me, you wouldn’t do this”. He replied “Love has nothing to do with it.” I went on to have major depression growing up and today I’m doing ok. I will never do that to my kids and I’ve helped lots of kids in our area by telling them the truth to being in that hole. Mine is the feeling of abandonment, I still have hurdles. I don’t let my husband too close because I’m always waiting for the other shoe to drop. Taking drugs to hide out is the same as the person that wants to sleep to hide out. We just want the problem to go away but when we’re hiding the problem continues to grow. My heart goes out to you. I’m saying a little prayer for all of you.
December 4th, 2008 at 8:47 am
I’m interested to see that many times the patients (and their family members) seem to be finding an answer that you will like when you ask them a question about their feelings and stuff. Other times, they seem to really look inward. But the problem for me…as an observer, is that many of the people are accomplished at acting. How do you deal with the “answers to please you” and the “are they acting?” worries that you probably have also?
December 4th, 2008 at 10:31 am
Dear Jeff,
I see great faith in you. I prayed for your healing, and God healed you! How awesome is He? Awesome. When Jesus died for us on the cross he died for the forgiveness of all sin… he said, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” He took the penalty on the cross— the worst penalty back in those days— as if he was a horrible mass murder, but he was sinless. When he came back to life and went up to heaven to be with the Father, he gave us this thing called the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is our helper… it can heal us spiritually and physically, which I believe is what happened with you.
I am so glad that you are feeling pain-free. I pray that God will keep you that way. That is a very special thing that he spoke to you through a dream. I was going through a really down time in my life and I believe God sent an angel to me in my dreams; she told me “you need to take from your bucket of joy more often.” I wrote a song about it called “Bucket of Joy.” My myspace page is http://www.myspace.com/dejosmusic if you or anyone would like to check it out.
I hope you get this message Jeff! I just wanted to let you know that I was praying for you and will be.
Love, DeJo
December 4th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
I honestly love this show, I’ve been in AA for the past 18 years and hopefully can continue on my path. Watching this show is like a meeting for me, I felt for Steven Adler, he’s come a long way I hope he is able to find and keep his way on that positive path. He’s got what it takes and for the first time in his life this is the longest he’s been sober since he was 11, he’s got a way to go and I can only hope and pray that he makes it……..I really hope that powerful people are with him while he is on tour, or I hope the tour does get canceled he needs this time to work on learning more about this program, and it has to stay in his head, if he wants to survive this he will.
Today’s show I didn’t watch it all because I usually watch it in the evening and I can only say is this, I hope this show and next weeks really keeps all of those who are in there now, right where they are because someone is going to come back into the mix and they will see that this disease is not a joke.
December 4th, 2008 at 5:46 pm
Dear Sean, I have never, ever wrote to anyone before, but my heart goes out to you. I can see so much good in you. My step-son is 26 this year, and I can not imagine anyone hurting him the way you have been hurt. You are not a waste… you are a blessing… to yourself and everyone you touch. If people around you make you feel that way, you must move forward and away from them… even if their related to you. I’m a child of the 60-70’s, seen a lot of stuff, done a lot of stuff, even I’m a little surprised I made it though. But, the way I made it though was to put those who weren’t on the same page, behind me. Life will never be perfect, but that’s ok. I hope nothing but good things for you. I think your a lot stronger than you give yourself credit for. Just remember, your name is Sean Stewart NOT Sean Stewart-Son of Rod Stewart. You take care of you and the rest will fall into place.
December 4th, 2008 at 7:20 pm
We think Dr. Sophy’s comment during the family visit regarding sex to Nikkie was incredibly out of whack! “You need to be available as a wife” (meaning sexually). The girl’s mother has been dead less than a year! true - the grief process needs to move forward as Dr. Drew stated but the pressure and message sent that you need to make your partner happy as if you ‘owe’ him that by virtue of marriage irregarless of what else is happening in your life in insane. Nothing like a little pressure to get the addition back in full swing! Heal the addiction first, become better friends second and the rest will follow. The sex sounded so important to Dr. Sophy that I can only hope his comment stood out due to bad editing.
December 4th, 2008 at 11:23 pm
To all the celebritys, my prayers are with you! Dr. Drew, you’re a God send and I believe you’ve touched more lives than even you know. Mine as well! Rodney King, I think you touch me the most. Only you know the hardship of the abuse you’ve had to endure and relive. I know that God allows things to happen for reasons we sometimes do not understand. Stay strong and don’t give in, your story is a testimony for so many people in like situations. Steven, dude you remind me of my brother in that you seem to have a very stubborn streak as far as your recovery goes. My brother went through so many rehabs, too many to even count. His heart was always in the right place, but unfortuneately he died during his final relaps. But, take heart in this. Your stubborness can go either way. Use it to push on and beat this. Please don’t end up like my heart (my brother)! Good luck to all of you and remember this, you’re all a huge inspiration to those of us still struggling with addictions. I’ve been an addict for 32 years. That’s over half of my life! Today is the first day of my sobriety for the first time! No help by the way, other than God. Please pray for me, God knows who I am. Thank all of you for your story! You have no clue just how much you are inspiring me!
December 4th, 2008 at 11:24 pm
Dear Sean, You are a wonderful young man. Keep your head up. Your story has touched my heart. I’m sure there are so many people that love you.(how could they not) I pray God blesses you as you continue your journey.
December 4th, 2008 at 11:56 pm
I am not sure of when and where to post? I really feel soooo much empathy and personal pain for all of Dr. Drew’s patients. I have never written anything like this in my lifetime, however now I find an overwhelming desire as well as need to give of my self. Jeff, Gary and Steven have touched my life and heart more profoundly than they will ever know. I would give anything to be able to interact with them by email or phone. My heart hurts for you all….you all help me every minute of every day to try, just try. So here I am……scared but just trying….please contact me, please. I’m soooo sorry for all of the horror and pain that has tried to keep so many of us stuck like terrified innocent little children looking for nothing more than love…thank you for showing your love for people like me, by sharing your very personal lives, thoughts, insecurities……. What you are all doing is huge!!! Never let any one take that from you. All of human kind is in so so many ways better off for your contributions to the human race. You all make me want to be the best me possible! Jeff C., I am in a very similar situation as you- pain is pain, and life shouldn’t only be pain…
December 5th, 2008 at 2:37 am
I commend all of you, clients and staff, for not only walking this path but to have it be shown to the masses that watch the show each week. I believe this country needs to be educated about the disease of addiction and you all are very courageous to take on this task in addition to the difficulties of very early recovery. I think it was very contraversial to have Seth’s sponsor take him to score. Many families just learning about addiction and the 12-step process could get the wrong impression of what the true function of a sponsor is. A sponsor is truely a selfless, god-directed person who possesses the integrity and discipline to walk straight up to the gates of hell with someone, but not walk through. I understand that Seth’s safety was taken into consideration.
I finally realized that I couldn’t run anywhere without finally showing up there myself, and five years ago I landed in the state of Utah and got sober. I have a licensed, sober living facility for women in a state where it is thought that this disease doesn’t exist. The dominant religion and government are so enmeshed, we have to fight to educate the public. I really appreciate all of you for putting it out there for the world to see. I love all of you and wish you the greatest blessings as you are “rocketed into the fourth dimension”. God bless.
December 6th, 2008 at 12:08 pm
To Amber: God, do I feel for you. It was chilling watching your own mother try to guilt trip and con you into leaving recovery (make no mistake, that’s what she was doing.) I know. I had a terribly abusive and ENMESHED relationship with my own mother. She treated me the same way I saw yours treating you while the two of you were on your bed. Excerpts: “I’m the one who got the short end of the stick. YOU got your whole life going (this is incredibly awful for a mother to say–SHE’S wrong, Amber.) Also: “Stop being SO FULL OF YOURSELF because you’re ahead of me.” That’s worrisome on so many levels, Amber. YOU should be FULL of who you are. A healthy mother, capable of genuine love and concern, would implore you to be exactly, FULL, full of life, full of wonder, full of YOURSELF. And, I love how she kept saying, “we.” Ugh, run for your life, Amber. I swear to god it was deja vu listening to your mom. I know it’s difficult, but more than likely, the best way for YOU to get the fresh start you need for your own recovery, is to severe contact with your mother (I did this for one year and it worked like magic; my mother ceased guilting me.) I know, I really do know, how hard it must feel. My mother also had schizophrenia, which only added my misguided sense of guilt. Anyway, I’m pulling for you. I think you’re way more than beautiful, you’re incredibly intuitive and smart. I’m rootin for you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 6th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
Hello, all, My husband has had 12 back surgeries, but we found something that people with back problems can have done now to stop the pain, My husband had a SCS Spinal Cord Stimulation implant, it is a system that management chronic back pain, it electrically stimulates the spinal cord to alter the perception of pain signals, you have the stimulator inplanted in your back and these lead wires are put up throught the spinal cord, with that in you use a remote contral to manage your pain and you don’t need meds anymore you contral your pain. check it out, if you need to check on line under SCS Spinal Cord Stimulation. It is better than meds, my husband is doing well with it and it helps him alot, he is so glad that he doesn’t need pain meds anmore, I wisj Jeff the best, and this will help him out. It would be the best for the pain he is going throught. Good Luck.
December 7th, 2008 at 12:20 am
HI DR DREW,
I watch the show faithfully and each week has brought me closer to where I am today. I truly believe I have hit rock bottom. I plan to detox at home this week. I work in a pharmacy so I am quitting my job.(I guess) I am so confused, but am having so many symptoms of possible od or something. my marriage has fallen apart, my 8 year old is out of control, my mother is an addict as well, my father died 4 yrs ago and I am emotionless. I just dont feel anything. Except, FOG, TWITCHES, N/V, MEMORY LOSS,(EVEN 5 MINS AGO) , ETC. Also within the past month or so over half of my hair has fallen out and still is by the handfuls, Is this normal with an opioid addiction??? I’m really freaked out and dont know what to do????? could you please give me some advice???? I want my life back!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m tired of not living , dr drew PLEASE I NEED HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 7th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
I was abused by both my parents. They beat me, humiliated me, told me i was a piece of garbage and a sack of &_@&)_^(~)+**#~! The first beating I recall was when i was 4 years old. ) You had to have your clothes off for the beating. And then after my mother would want you to take your clothes off to make sure you got it good enough. That would go on for a few days until your next beating because you were starting to heal from the one so it was time to give you another one.
They both sexually abused me. I had another uncle sexually abuse me and another one that raped me.
I got pregnant and had my uncles and my child when i was 17. He has disabilities.
I ended up with a severely damaged jaw. I am almost 50 now and am in so much pain.
I almost started doing drugs but, the day i was supposed to, i looked out the window and the sheriff was coming up the driveway. And after that close a call I never tried it again. I can’t deal with the jaw pain sometimes. i feel really really badly for Jeff Conaway, because of his pain that he endures. I am not saying mine is worse than his, i just feel for him.
It is kind of funny because i went through labor and delivery 4 times and when i go to acupuncture i react to the pain that the needle causes on the side of my face. So i guess what i am saying is that each pain is different and a person might be able to handle one kind of pain and maybe not another kind.
December 7th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
take the women to some animal shelters to do volunteer work regularly; take Jeff to the Motion Picture Hospital in Calabasas daily for 2 weeks to sit and visit; take Sean Stewart to volunteer at a childrens hospital for 2 weeks;take Rodney to a Veterans hospital to volunteer for 2 weeks;Seth needs a padded room, then make him work at a childrens hospital like St. Judes for a month; Gary B. could volunteer at a mission as a host. take a corner in your facility-a place to paint/watercolor/oil/acrylic/clay for sculpting. A small library with some ‘interesting’ books also making jewelry is good for both men and women.Its good for them to focus on themselves butt they need MORE of a distraction to use their own thought processes. Can’t just focus on I, I, ME, ME. Reward the ones that want to with a bike ride in a safe place, like the strand in Manhattan Beach or a train ride to San Diego. Let me know if you want more comments……We owned mental hospital and sanitariums throughout my growing up.
December 8th, 2008 at 6:17 pm
I am a huge fan of this show and especially of Amber this year. I think her’s is a very profound story and not enough attention is paid to her. The small tidbit she shared about the demographics of the shelters was heart wrenching to hear. She is so stunningly beautiful, it’s very hard to imagine the depths of despair she’s experienced. And I agree with Tawny … I’m mad at her mother. To me, a mother’s role is to project her child at all cost. And “protect” means a lot of things including protection from any kind of exploitation. It’s sickening to hear the role she’s played in Amber’s unfortunate journey. I feel that all these issues are so closely knotted together, Amber’s chances of full recovery seem very limited … unless she can share her story on an even wider scale than this program. Maybe then she could begin to experience the level of self worth she deserves. I too had a mother who exploited me - as I’m sure you can tell by my comments. I’m pulling hard for Amber’s success.
December 12th, 2008 at 2:01 am
Sean your an amazing young man. On camera you seem so articulate and in control. Why not take back that same power that you give away to drugs and abusive relationships. You have so much life ahead of you I pray that after you’re done with rehab you’ll see what we all see…A beautiful human being. God bless You
January 30th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
i need help