Deandre M. from Lancaster, CA speaking in Simi Valley, CA - April 20th 2008

Visit our website - Sober-Sunrise.com

Deandre shares his powerful recovery story, sober since May 29, 1991. Growing up in Watts, he found early escape in alcohol, which led to dishonesty, chaos, and self-destruction. Rehab introduced him to AA, where through painful resistance he began working the steps, especially the Fourth and Fifth, uncovering resentments, fears, and secrets that blocked him from connection. Guided by sponsors, he learned that amends meant change, not just apology, and that true sobriety requires ongoing commitment, not just looking good or “feeling better.” He warns that many relapse not at their lowest but when life improves, stressing the daily need for inventory, prayer, sponsorship, and service. Despite hardships, including family pain and personal struggles, he testifies that his life today is built on being properly armed with AA’s principles and carrying the message. His story highlights resilience, accountability, and the importance of staying grounded in the program to maintain long-term sobriety.

Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Mike S. from Riverside, CA speaking at the 25th San Diego Spring Roundup in San Diego, CA - March 30th 2002

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Mike shares his experience & journey from chaos to recovery. Marked by alcoholism, drug use, and repeated relapses until surrendering to AA in 1980. Growing up in a turbulent alcoholic household, his drinking quickly spiraled into blackouts, violence, and despair, leaving him broken despite outward successes. His turning point came through a series of “coincidences” he later recognized as divine intervention, leading him into treatment, AA sponsorship, and disciplined service that transformed his life. Through step work, commitments, and faith, Mike rebuilt his family relationships, pursued law school, and ultimately became a district attorney—proof that honesty, surrender, and action could bring serenity and purpose. His story is one of resilience, showing how embracing humility, spiritual reliance, and service allowed him to move from pitiful demoralization to a life filled with meaning, responsibility, and hope.

Music: Deep by KaizanBlu

Dustin B. from Saint Paul, MN and Kelly B. from Saint Paul, MN doing a workshop on "Questions and Answers on Sponsorship" for Area 36, District 23 in St. Peter, MN - October 25th 2008

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Dustin and Kelly share a heartfelt story of recovery, rooted in gratitude, accountability, and the power of sponsorship. Dustin, after being dragged back by a state commitment, admits his early struggles with relapse, atheism, and anger, but found freedom by fully working the steps and learning through strong sponsorship that real change comes from action, honesty, and service. Kelly, sober since July 22, 2006, entered treatment homeless and broken, but discovered hope in the Big Book and later through powerful women sponsors who showed her love, discipline, and the full circle of AA’s three legacies. Together, they emphasize that sponsorship is not therapy or friendship alone, but one alcoholic showing another “the way out of the ditch” through lived example, accountability, and the 12 steps. Their lives today—with restored relationships, joy in service, and gratitude for God’s grace—stand as proof that what once was punishment has become privilege: they don’t have to do this work, they get to.

Music: Deep by KaizanBlu