- Видео 206
- Просмотров 107 208
Spirit To Live
Добавлен 14 ноя 2011
Raising awareness on addiction and mental illness to remove the stigma and to build a positive supporting community.
I started this channel with my son, Ben- to share our day-to-day lives in a real and raw viewpoint from people who are living it. I do not give advice but rather share my experience in hopes of helping and encouraging others to find the spirit to live and continue to fight another day.
Our health system needs to see what’s happening in our community.
Change starts with us.
I started this channel with my son, Ben- to share our day-to-day lives in a real and raw viewpoint from people who are living it. I do not give advice but rather share my experience in hopes of helping and encouraging others to find the spirit to live and continue to fight another day.
Our health system needs to see what’s happening in our community.
Change starts with us.
Naloxone | International Overdose Awareness Day
Today is International Overdose Awareness Day. We honour those we have lost to addiction and the people who loved them.
This year is harder for me as Ben lost his life on July 3rd. We need to remember everything he has taught us over the years.
Ben and I started this channel to raise awareness and end the stigma. I will always continue to advocate in honour of Ben.
I share the importance of Naloxone, why having a kit is a life saver; it has saved Ben’s life countless times over the years, which gave Ben opportunity to recover.
Watch past videos Ben and I did for Overdose Awareness Day👇:
ruclips.net/video/3BPJanQ5yhk/видео.htmlsi=c93iTT9iX4cuooLh
ruclips.net/video/ENtOKi00RNE/видео.htmlsi=i9h...
This year is harder for me as Ben lost his life on July 3rd. We need to remember everything he has taught us over the years.
Ben and I started this channel to raise awareness and end the stigma. I will always continue to advocate in honour of Ben.
I share the importance of Naloxone, why having a kit is a life saver; it has saved Ben’s life countless times over the years, which gave Ben opportunity to recover.
Watch past videos Ben and I did for Overdose Awareness Day👇:
ruclips.net/video/3BPJanQ5yhk/видео.htmlsi=c93iTT9iX4cuooLh
ruclips.net/video/ENtOKi00RNE/видео.htmlsi=i9h...
Просмотров: 207
Видео
Forever 27 | A Great Loss
Просмотров 1,7 тыс.Месяц назад
Today, I share the sad news of my son Ben’s passing. He will forever be 27. I recite my eulogy so that everyone could learn about Ben’s true essence. He will not be forgotten as I continue to advocate for all the Bens out there. The system has failed, this is not okay and this is not the end. • Update | The Last 3 Months - Ben passed 2 days later (m.ruclips.net/video/1CFSCsJT2M8/видео.html) • A...
Addiction Can Be Fatal | Another Loss
Просмотров 1,5 тыс.Месяц назад
Tonight Ben shares his feelings about the friends he has lost over the last couple of years and most recently this week. This is reality. Addiction can be fatal. Where there is breath, there is hope. ✌️ ❤️
Update | The Last 3 Months
Просмотров 7 тыс.2 месяца назад
Today, I share the events of the past 3 months and why I haven’t posted a video. I give an update about my son’s hospital stays and the treatment centers. I share what I have been doing between working full time, trying to take care of myself and handling the addiction monster. Our health system is broken. Saying nothing means it’s okay and IT’S NOT OKAY!!! It has been a challenging few months....
Update | Nothing Changes if Nothing Changes
Просмотров 5424 месяца назад
Today, I give an update on where things are with Ben. I also share some things I’ve learned on my journey which includes working on and changing ME. Once, I grasped that nothing changes, if nothing changes, I had no other option but to look within as I could not change my son, no matter how much I wanted to. Insanity is defined as, when you keep doing the same thing over again and expect a diff...
Update | Hope
Просмотров 3855 месяцев назад
Today, I give an update on where things are with Ben. I talk about the most challengng months that eventually led to recovery. I give hope to those who have a loved one with an addiction problem. Even in the darkest of times there is hope. Working on myself and self care allowed me to be there to support Ben when he was ready for recovery. Where there is breath, there is hope. ✌️ ❤️ A few resou...
Addiction | Full Circle
Просмотров 3215 месяцев назад
Today, I talk about what it is like to love someone who has a substance use disorder. I share some of my experiences from over the years and how I am using what I have learned to help my son navigate the health system. Life with addiction is not something I would have chosen. Although because of it, I know I am a better person. I am grateful for all that I have learned. I am grateful for my exp...
Moms of Addicts | Insanity to Serenity
Просмотров 2517 месяцев назад
Today, Lisa and Carolyn (whom I met through Nar-Anon) join me in sharing some of the insanity we’ve experienced in our journey of having a loved one as an addict, before we reached out for support. We talk about our rock bottom and how today we deal with situations in a healthier way. Seeking support in dealing with a loved ones addicton has been life changing. We have found serenity. You to ca...
It’s About You | Loving An Addict
Просмотров 3367 месяцев назад
Today, I have a guest join me: Eleanor. Eleanor’s family member has a substance use disorder. She shares what lead her to the journey of Nar-Anon and how the program and support has helped her through loving an addict. Eleanor gives a snap shot of her behaviour and actions before and after Nar-Anon. Eleanor and I talk about how Nar-Anon and the fellowship has helped us navigate through the worl...
2023 Recap | There is Hope
Просмотров 2567 месяцев назад
Today, I recap some events from 2023. I also share an update on where Ben is today. I am grateful to have all my tools which continue to help me get through one of the most challenging years. I choose to be grateful for all the struggles I have conquered and how it has made me the warrior that I am today. We are not alone and there is always hope. Where there is breath, there is hope. ✌️ ❤️ A f...
Moms of Addicts | Choices We Make
Просмотров 2638 месяцев назад
Today, Lisa and Carolyn whom I met through Nar-Anon join me in sharing the choices we have made in our lives that have helped us navigate life when affected by a loved ones addiction. Understanding it doesn’t matter whether I am sitting at home worrying or out enjoying lunch with friends, I have no control of the outcome of others. We only have control of ourselves. We choose what works for us....
Things Change In An Instance
Просмотров 4438 месяцев назад
Today, I share an update since my last video ‘Getting Through The Holidays’ which I’ve linked below. I talk about how I was going into Christmas thinking it was going to be smooth sailing as Ben was in detox and seemed to be on the road to recovery. To my surprise, he left detox 2 days later. I’m sharing this because things can change in an instance. It is out of my control what Ben chooses to ...
Getting Through The Holidays
Просмотров 3048 месяцев назад
Today I give an update on how Ben and I have been doing over the last month. I also share how I get through the holidays as the holiday season can be challenging in the best of times. Knowing I am not alone and that there are supports help me get through the day. I’ve done a video, a year ago with two other mothers of addicts and we share the tools that help us get through the holidays: m.rucli...
Update | Overdoses and Homelessness
Просмотров 4499 месяцев назад
Today, I share an update on what has been going on over the last few weeks. I talk about overdoses and being unhoused (homelessness). I want to express my gratitude to all who have been following our journey over the last 5 years. I know that addiction can hijack our lives if we let it. Today I choose to not allow addiction to dictate my happiness. Where there is breath, there is hope. ✌️ ❤️ A ...
Update | Slowing Down
Просмотров 33610 месяцев назад
Today, I talk about the tools I use to deal with Ben’s current situation and being unhoused. I share about my visit with him and how I dealt with it. As a mom it’s very hard seeing your son in this situation but I remind myself of the tools that I need to use and how far they have brought me. Addiction is a family disease and we all need reminding sometimes to not get in our heads. I took the o...
Sandra, my heart breaks for you. I wish in the US we could get a kit for free. My son is in active addiction as I write this. Sending you hugs. 💜💜
Thank you
Im sorry to hear this. I thought of Ben today and was wondering how he was doing. Sorry for your loss. God Bless you!
Sandra, my heart goes out to you. I’ve obviously been off RUclips for awhile and just saw this. Drug addiction is a terrible disease. And sadly we family members cannot really do anything to help. I’m so so sorry. Sending love, prayers and hugs. Let us know how you are doing.
Sending my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. It's a crappy club to belong to. Just heartbreaking. You are an inspiration and have guided many to a better understanding of addiction and co-dependency. I call Seth “My beautiful boy” too. Continue to take of yourself. 12:41
@@jeffschmidt3003 Thank you. I think of you and Seth often. I feel blessed to have learned so much from Ben. He made a difference and will continue to. ✌️ ❤️
Sending my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. It's a crappy club to belong to. Just heartbreaking. You are an inspiration and have guided many to a better understanding of addiction and co-dependency. I call Seth “My beautiful boy” too. Continue to take of yourself.
OMG I am so sorry yes!! use your voice to advise people or your story! Thank you for sharing !!
If he leaves you,he will leave any facility. Im not quite sure what you expect.
He didn’t leave by choice. He was discharged. There is a difference as he wanted the help. ✌️ ❤️
Oh my goodness. Im so sorry. God bless you. Lord have mercy Jesus.....
I am heartbroken to hear those. He was your beautiful boy and will live forever in your heart ❤️
I’m so sorry Sandy. Sending you and your family so much kindness, love and warmth during this difficult time.
Somehow someway we must address mental health .
So sad for you Sandy and Ben . I have watched your videos for couple years. Thank you and thank you Ben your videos a few times carried me. Thank you thank you so sorry for your loss. Heaven has gained an angel.
@@lisakidd4286 Thank you. It fills my heart knowing that our videos have helped. ✌️ ❤️
So sad that you have lost your boy. Thank you for your courage and open- mindedness and sharing the eulogy with is. You are remarkable
I really missed you Ben. Last time sometimes in June 2024 I visited you in Rehab in Mclaughin in Brampton because I know you are in a good place. When I saw you I'm so much happy because you gained weight and happy face. When I left the Rehab I'm felt mix of sadness because you've been in Rehab again for six months in Penengteguishene and you said to me I will visited you there for one day. I said I will come to you and we chill for one day. I felt relax and comfortable that you still in the clinic. After a week maybe you message me that you are homeless and I asked why you left the rehab? and you said yes. I will messaging Ben and keep asking where are you now and did not answer. After 2 weeks Ben passed away. Note to Importance:: Keep in touch always to your love ones, family and friends.
Peace Ben
I’m so sorry for your loss, Sandra. I found your videos several years ago in desperation for support when a family member was experiencing similar issues. I had so much hope that Ben would pull through. Mental health is so poorly managed across the board. I’m so heartbroken for you ❤ thank you for sharing your journeys together.
@@Aspiration0587 Thank you for your message. I’m glad you found our videos when you needed them. Our journey is not over, Thanks to Ben I found my purpose. ✌️ ❤️
@@SpiritToLive I’m looking forward to the next part of your journey ❤️ thank you for being so open and honest.
I am so sorry for your loss Sandra. So sorry to hear this.
the system sucks
Love you Sandra! May your journey on educating and reducing the stigma continue in Ben’s name. Xoxo
So sorry for your loss.
Sandra, thinking of you. I am so very sorry. Sending you love and light.
❤
I’m so very sorry your loss. I’m living this nightmare, watching your videos gives me hope that I will one day be able to speak openly about my son’s addiction without breaking down.
Please know you are not alone. I understand. Much love and strength to you and you family. ✌️ ❤️
Im sorry but if he had such a loving family why was he homeless ?
His family loved him more then words can describe, it was his drug addiction that caused him to be homeless , his family was their everyday for him along the way
If you don’t understand the disease of addiction it’s probably not the best idea to comment on the page of a grieving mother that lost her son. My son is battling addiction, I offered him help so many times while he lived with me. He chose to live in his car and do drugs over living at home and getting help.
It’s so sad that someone’s got to make a comment like that. It shows that a lot of people still need to be educated on mental illness and addiction! Please do your research or watch the videos before making a comment like that. Sandra is my sister and I know the struggles and challenges she has been through !! She’s an amazing mom who has done everything in her power to help Ben!! So I will rise above your comment knowing you just don’t get it! Have a great day!
Thanks for your comment. It truly reminds me of why we did these videos. We wanted to educate people and remove the stigma . Many that may not be affected by this horrible disease may not understand the realities that come with it. Thank you to those who responded with their own experiences, ✌️ ❤️
I’m so sorry for your loss. Wishing you continued strength and grace to continue the work of educating.
The system is truly broken prayers for you prayers Ben is at peace you are a strong women thank you for continuing to fight this battle is big
Bless you and your family Sandra. Thank you to you and Ben for removing the fears and stigma. Big hugs and love!
I love you Sandra. ❤
Sincerest condolences to you and your family from Estoril neighbors ❤
My heart is just broken for you and for Ben.
Sincere condolences Sandra. Ben is at peace. Sending love and hugs. ❤️
<3
My condolences. I’m so sorry 💕
Love you so much ❤
Love you tons ❤️
Extremely sorry for your loss. If there's anything I can do to help advocate with you, please reach out to me. Shelley
Thank you. I will keep everyone posted. ✌️ ❤️
So very sorry for the loss of your friend Ben. Sending you all hugs and prayers we find an answer to this crisis. Much love
I m so sorry prayers
Sorry for your loss ben
Hi Nolan, I’m sorry to have to share that Ben passed away July 3rd. I will eventually share with all who have followed our journey. Thanks for your support Nolan.
@@SpiritToLive I am sorry 😞 ❤️ he will be missed by many.
I'm so sorry for your journey and loss. My daughter who at the age of 13 on the same journey. Nobody would help. I tried everything. She ended up on the streets after the birth of her 2 girls (who I won custody of). It wasn't until 2024 this year she was finally diagnosed with her mental health disorders, she will be 44 this week. Now the healing has begun. I pray she can repair the damage that her girls had to endure without their mother or father. We were blessed to have a higher power watch over her. 😢
JESUS CAN SEE YOU THROUGH. SEE THERE'S ONLY ONE OF TWO PLACES THAT WE GO AFTER WE DIE. HEAVEN OR HELL. THERE IS NO PURGATORY OR ANYTHING ELSE. MOST OF US LIVE OUR LIVES AS IF WE DON'T HAVE TO GIVE AN ACCOUNT FOR HOW WE HAVE LIVED OUR LIVES. WE ARE ALL SINNERS IN NEED OF A SAVIOR. GOD CAME DOWN AS GOD AND IN HUMAN FORM AS A MAN IN JESUS CHRIST TO GIVE HIS LIFE TO REDEEM US FROM THE PENALTY OF SIN. JESUS SAID I AM THE WAY THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE NO MAN COMETH TO THE FATHER BUT BY ME ... WE CAN ONLY GET TO GOD THROUGH THE LORD JESUS CHRIST. HE IS THE ONLY WAY. MOST PPL THINK THAT IF I DO ENOUGH GOOD TO BALANCE OUT THE BAD IVE DONE GOD WILL LET ME IN OR THAT GOD WILL JUST FORGIVE ME OF IT ALL WHEN I GET THERE ... THATS THE BIGGEST LIE IN THE ROOM. THATS WHAT THE DEVIL USES TO LULL US INTO DULLNESS. OH GOD WILL JUST WIPE IT ALL OUT WHEN I GET THERE.... THATS NO WHERE IN THE BIBLE. THAT'S THE BIGGEST LIE IN THE ROOM..... IT'S A LIE FROM THE PIT OF HELL. THE ONLY WAY TO BE SAVED IS TO BELIEVE IN THE LORD JESUS CHRIST AND OBEY HIS COMMANDS. WE CANT JUST SAY WELL ILL COME TO JESUS WHEN IM REALLY OLD OR GET SICK OR SOMETHING. GOD KNOWS WHEN WE ARE SERIOUS ABOUT OUR SINS AND WHEN WE'RE JUST TRYING TO USE HIM TO GET OUT OF OUR PREDICAMENT. HE KNOWS WHEN WE ARE REALLY REPENTING AND WHEN OUR HEART HAS DECEIVED US .... THE BIBLE SAYS WHEN YOU HEAR MY VOICE HARDEN NOT YOUR HEART. THE BIBLE SAYS SEEK YE THE LORD WHILE HE MAY BE FOUND, CALL YE UPON HIM WHILE HE IS NEAR: LET THE WICKED FORSAKE HIS WAY, AND THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAN HIS THOUGHTS: AND LET HIM RETURN UNTO THE LORD, AND HE WILL HAVE MERCY UPON HIM, AND TO OUR GOD; FOR HE WILL ABUNDANTLY PARDON- ISAIAH 55V5-6 THIS PAGE HAS HELPED ME TREMENDOUSLY IN GETTING CLOSER TO THE LORD JESUS CHRIST youtube.com/@livingwaters?si=mnUpn2JZ1Vd0fPlI
I want you to know that i forwarded this to our mpp and the minister of health. Ted arnotts office has replied and thanked me bringing this to their attn.
Sandra my heart breaks for you. I pray that Ben is at peace. What a beautiful caring soul. Addiction is a disease that is as fatal as cancer!
Sorry for your loss please stay safe and stay strong
I’m sorry to share that Ben passed away July 3rd. I will eventually share with our followers. ✌️ ❤️
So sorry for your loss, Ben.
I’m sorry to share that Ben passed away July 3rd. I will eventually share for our followers. ✌️ ❤️
@@SpiritToLive I am so very sorry.
Oh dear sweet Ben, you are missed. Sandra, I have no words... sending so much support and prayers 🙏
I’m so deeply sorry for your loss. My son has suffered from mental health issues and addiction and is currently running one marathon everyday (that’s 42.2km or 26 miles) every single day to raise awareness for men’s mental health. I pray these days and weeks ahead are gentle for you 🕊️
❤
I understand how you feel! My son has needed help for years! He has overdosed several times, sent to the hospital, and just gets discharged to go live back on the streets. The system fails these addicts!
@@margaretsoares134 I am so sorry to hear this. You are not alone. I am determined to make change. This is not okay. I hope you are able to take some time for yourself. Sending much love and strength. ✌️ ❤️
Hello my friend. I will get back on this .. and try to find help....
7 months clean I was addicted for 3 months I don’t know how I survived but there is hope out there and you can change
Congratulations on your 7 months! Keep up the hard work. Be proud! ✌️ ❤️
My sister died waiting to get into a rehab. In and out of hospitals. This is not ok. You’re not alone ❤
@@katecollins3548 I am so very sorry for the loss of your sister. This happens too many times. I am determined to work on making changed. You are right, this is NOT okay. Much love ✌️ ❤️