I grew up with a father and mother who misused alcohol and went on to develop my own addictions to alcohol and many other drugs. This commenced at the age of 12 and ended when I entered my last rehabilitation unit at 24 years of age.

I experienced abuse in many forms due to my vulnerability when under the influence, and experienced non-acceptance and lack of assistance from society.

I have been in recovery for 31 years and have completely turned my life around. I have worked on the front line with other people struggling with addiction issues for 24 years, and also teach about these issues at TAFE.

I am passionate about ending the stigma and shame attached to these experiences for people. I use my teaching to address this, and in any other way I can.