Stories

At the core of the Unshame California campaign are the thousands of Californians impacted by substance use disorder. They are our parents, siblings, children, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. These are their stories.

Nov 20

Melissa Helps Others Feel Welcomed

Melissa reminds us that it’s important to accept everyone we meet, including people who use substances.

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Aug 22

Marissa Knows It's All About Support

Marissa and her team don't just offer supplies and resources, but they offer connection without judgment.

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Aug 14

Mike Inspires Us to Be Free of Judgment

He knows that all people are worthy of love and compassion.

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May 31

Mike Uplifts His Community

Mike's community has shown him a lot of love, and he loves to pay it forward and show his community love right back.

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Jan 10

Conrad's Message: People Need People

Human connection has been key to Conrad's healing.

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Jan 4

Support & Acceptance Can Make All the Difference

Cassondra and Ryan are no strangers to experiencing stigma around their substance use disorder (SUD).

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Sep 20, 2023

"We Are Someone's Loved One"

Andres has a growth mindset, something he gained as a direct result of his substance use disorder and recovery.

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Sep 6, 2023

Heather Shares about the Chain Reaction of Kindness

When Heather was using substances, the people who showed her kindness made the difference. Now she wants to pass that kindness on.

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Aug 31, 2023

Danielle and BriarPatch Food Co-op Take Action for their Community

“I love that I get an opportunity to show up and help somebody in some, maybe small and meaningful way every day.”

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Aug 16, 2023

Mike on Learning to Love Himself

Mike's friendships, faith, and personal growth help him sustain his recovery.

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Jul 11, 2023

Dr. Christina is Changing her Community Through Education and Compassion

Dr. Christina talks about what she has learned about opioid use disorder (OUD) and medications that can treat OUD.

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Dec 201 min read

Recovery Journeys

Cameron Is Proud To Be Himself

His favorite part of recovery has been thriving in his own skin and living his values.

Sean Pays It Forward by Supporting Others

Sep 201 min read

Giving Back

Sean Pays It Forward by Supporting Others

Since deciding to learn more about himself and focus on his recovery, Sean has applied what he’s learned to help others.

Melissa Found Connection in Her Recovery

Sep 111 min read

Lived Experience

Melissa Found Connection in Her Recovery

When Melissa started pursuing her recovery, she found the community and support she'd been looking for through her relationship with God.

Dr. Christina is Changing her Community Through Education and Compassion

Dr. Christina talks about what she has learned about opioid use disorder (OUD) and medications that can treat OUD.

Bryant Talks About the Science of Addiction

Bryant shares how educating himself and those around him has helped reduce the stigma of blame.

Deanna Shares the Importance of Family

Journeying Toward Hope: Supporting Her Brother's Recovery from Opioid Use Disorder and Overcoming Stigma Together.

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