Episode Summary

What happens when love, addiction, and recovery intersect? Join us as we welcome Dave and Carla, who recount their extraordinary 21-year journey that began with a chance meeting at the San Francisco airport. Carla reflects on the thoughtful nature of Dave that won her heart early on, while they both share memories of a life filled with travel and joy. However, their idyllic beginning faced an unexpected storm as Dave’s addiction rapidly intensified, leading to immense challenges as they navigated the pressures of merging their lives and Dave’s business decisions.

Carla and Dave’s story doesn’t end in hardship but transforms into a tale of resilience and recovery. Carla reveals how her approach matured over the years, from walking on eggshells around Dave’s addiction to establishing clear boundaries and taking decisive action. The couple emphasizes the critical role of family involvement and community support in the recovery process, with special acknowledgment of programs like Valiant’s family night. Dave opens up about his rough patches and the unwavering support from Carla and their daughter Coco, illustrating the power of mutual support, clear communication, and set boundaries.

In the final part of our conversation, the focus shifts to rebuilding trust and the delicate balance of tough love with genuine care. Dave explains his decision to seek help at Valiant and underscores how trust played a pivotal role in his recovery. Carla distinguishes between being in recovery and simply being sober, highlighting the importance of community involvement and personal choice. They share their experiences of navigating tough love, reestablishing family traditions, and maintaining an open door for support, showing that life’s challenges can be tackled with shared experiences and relentless effort. Tune in to be inspired by their compelling story and learn the collective effort required to sustain a supportive environment for recovery.