When Bryan arrived at Ashley in the summer of 2023, his life had quietly unraveled. What began as social drinking had grown into something that controlled every part of his days. The pressures of work, family loss, and new responsibilities felt overwhelming and alcohol became his way to cope.
“I turned to drinking to handle everything I didn’t know how to process,” Bryan shared. “But soon, I was drinking just to feel normal.”
After several attempts to quit on his own and through outpatient care, Bryan’s family intervened. Within days, he found himself driving to Ashley’s campus—scared, exhausted, and ready for change. “When I saw the brick sign welcoming me to Ashley, that’s when it got real,” he said. “That was my low point.”
At Ashley, Bryan discovered more than treatment, he found understanding, structure, and a new way to live. The daily rhythm of meetings, physical activity, and honest conversations helped him rebuild confidence and hope. Surrounded by peers who shared his struggles, Bryan began to see that recovery wasn’t just possible, it was sustainable.
He also found lifelong connections. The friends he made in treatment remain a vital part of his recovery, meeting weekly and supporting one another through life’s ups and downs. His counselor helped him learn to let go of constant work pressure and focus on what truly matters: his well-being and family.
Today, Bryan is thriving. He’s sober, rebuilding his family, and living a full, grounded life. “Ashley didn’t just save my life—it gave me my life back,” he said.
Stories like Bryan’s remind us of what healing can look like when compassion meets opportunity. Because of supporters who believe in Ashley’s mission, countless individuals and families continue to find hope, dignity, and a second chance at life—just like Bryan.
Learn about the Unlocking Ashley’s Future campaign.
