In this episode of Stories of Hope: Worldwide, I sit down with the courageous and deeply compassionate Andrea Simmons, founder of the Australian Anti Ice Campaign. Andrea takes us from the “perfect” picture of worldly success into the devastating descent that followed the first time she tried ice at the age of 40. In just two short years, she went from the boardroom to the basement, losing her health, her wealth, her identity and almost her life.

Andrea opens her heart as she shares what ice addiction really looks like behind closed doors – the psychosis, the paranoia, the crime, the shame, the broken relationships and the deep grief of losing connection with her daughters and missing out on years of their lives. She describes a long, honest journey of recovery, and a gradual rebuilding of her mind, body, and soul.

Today, Andrea is one of the “two out of a hundred” who make it through. She has turned her pain into purpose, creating a national movement of lived-experience advocates who are educating schools and communities, walking alongside people trapped in addiction, and breaking down the stigma that keeps so many silent.

If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, I believe Andrea’s story will speak straight to your heart. Her life is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark it gets, there is always hope, there is always help, and you never have to do this alone.

Get in touch with Andrea Simmons:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-simmons-5068a952/

Website: https://www.australianantiicecampaign.org.au/

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Thank you for listening to Stories of HOPE: Inspiring Humans with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an Inspiring Speaker, Professional Counsellor and Mental Health Coach. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt (artlist.io)

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss (https://www.mbpod.com)

Mentioned in this episode:

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