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.

Jul 11, 2024

Perla Celebrates Elijah's Life

"I don't just say it cause he's my boy but he was special," Perla reflects, "I've never met anyone as thoughtful as him."

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Jun 6, 2024

Amy & Susan Honor Melanie's Memory

Melanie was a funny, outgoing, and charismatic person. She was a cheerleader from the age of 5, and she loved fashion and dancing.

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Feb 26, 2024

Amber Opens Up About Dreason

Amber's son, Dreason, had the brightest smile, and he'd always light up the room.

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Jan 30, 2024

Danny Talks About How Addiction Can Happen to Anyone

Danny wants to honor Kathy's life and memory.

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Jan 12, 2024

Juli Takes Action

Addiction didn't run in Tyler's family.

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Nov 16, 2023

Marion's Advice for Talking with our Loved Ones

Marion's loss has inspired her to take action.

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Aug 1, 2023

Danny's Message: It's Okay to Talk About Addiction

Danny and his wife Kathy owned a gourmet grocery store in Sacramento together.

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Dec 20, 20241 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 20, 20241 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 11, 20241 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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