- Alcohol
- Friends & Family
Submitted by: Susanne Johnson
Alcohol was the drug of choice for Carinton. He started drinking at the age of 13. He found his life-saver in the form of treatment in Palm Springs, California in 2010. When asked why he finally did seek help and change, he just answered “It was time.”
Carinton worked at a different treatment center as a nurse for several years, helping those with addiction and mental health issues. He enjoyed his job tremendously, but slipped further and further into his own problems with alcohol. He could help others, but could not help himself at that time. Although he was not drinking on the job, he knew his problem had progressed and it was time to get help and do something about it. After he finally was able to realize and admit to his own problem, his employer helped him find treatment at another facility, where he completed an inpatient program. “We are always the ones that see it last,” Carinton says, full of gratitude that he does not have to live that life anymore.
He lived all his life in Memphis, Tennessee, and came back after his treatment was finished. He fell in love with the city of Palm Springs and wished he could have stayed there. He was amazed how supportive the community of Palm Springs is for people struggling with addiction or mental health issues and wishes that communities all over the U.S. would be that open and empathetic. With his run at the 6K, he hopes to do his share to help break the stigma and to make this world a better place for those who still struggle.
Carinton got himself a lovely dog named Tilli, who he considers very therapeutic for his recovery because of Tilli’s unconditional love and affection. He takes this little pup everywhere he can and Tilli even finished the Heroes in Recovery 6K run in Memphis with him. She always been part of his recovery and therefore was part of the run that honors those who choose to stay clean and sober every day and live a different life. Since the little pug can’t compete in running or even walking such a distance, nor is disciplined to avoid running in front of everyone, Carinton had her in a stroller. The picture was an unbelievable sweet team of a new-found life in happiness. Tilli seemed to have enjoyed being the center of attention, as she looked adorable wearing her 6K dog bandana, moving through the park like a princess in a carriage.