Former addict whose baby died can barely speak when Secret Santa gives him a life-changing gift
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- Опубліковано 9 гру 2019
- The EastIdahoNews.com team is busy helping a local man gift $500,000 this holiday season! Secret Santa is a real person who wants to remain anonymous and wants to help as many people as he can.
We will be surprising deserving people and families every day from now until Christmas with gifts unique to their circumstances.
Brennan O'Rourke is a single, full-time father of a 20-month-old son. He works with disabled adults to make ends meet while caring for his child. He is a 2 year recovered addict who has completely changed his life to be a better example to his son. And by changing his life, we mean everything. He doesn't do anything but work, care for his toddler and stick close to family for companionship.
He first started his recovery five years ago at age 21. When he and his girlfriend were in rehab, they learned she was pregnant. Both of them remained clean until their baby daughter died at one month of age. They awoke to find her not breathing. Brennan started CPR and mouth-to-mouth but to no avail. Leigha Marie died one day shy of her 1-month birth date. The autopsy later revealed that Leigha had Interstitial Pneumonia, which sometimes happens when newborns have to be intubated.
Brennan had PTSD for quite some time and both he and his girlfriend relapsed off and on. A few months later, they learned she was expecting again. Three months before the baby boy was born, Brennan completely changed his life. He recovered and is clean and sober still to this date. He recently celebrated his 2 year sobriety date.
Brennan is a full-time parent living with his parents but is saving for his own apartment and is set to start college soon. His dream is to have his son watch him graduate. He drives an old 1992 Ford pickup that is constantly breaking down (it's currently sitting in the driveway) and he shares a vehicle with his mom when he can.
Secret Santa was inspired by Brennan's story and asked the East Idaho News elves to go give him an early Christmas gift. Watch the video above to see what happened!
#SecretSanta #EastIdahoNews #Christmas
"My worst times sober are still better then the good times as an addict." Yes sir 👏
Yeah! Wow! Them words hit me too..
Very powerful speach..
Good on him for making that change & having the courage to follow through!!
Just good on him .
Any addict who gets clean deserves a little extra love.. good on them..
God bless x
I agree. My worst day now is way better than my "best day" getting high. I was slowly dieing not living at all. Today I'm truly blessed and living ❣️
Powerful and true 🙌🏻🙌🏻
@@HollySmith-we2bf wonderful message , thank you , and Merry Christmas, Holly. 🎄 please pray for my daughter , 🙏 she's probably an alcoholic , and doesn't want to even text me anymore , I raised her to be a Christian but, she's very opposed to all that now. She needs God, and HIS Sons forgiveness , so much , it hurts me so much to realize the situation she's in.... her whole life and relationships will be ruined, if she doesn't get saved and can turn around from her own destructive behavior. 🙏
As someone once said, "It's not how far you fall, It's how high you bounce back."
We dont bounce back up we crawl back up against all the forces trying to keep us down.
@@abelovedsonofGodinwhomHeis35-6 Amen
A normal Christian and that’s the truth! Towards the end, I felt like I was in a tornado, and I knew there was a door, I just couldn’t find it. Check out a poem, “addict in a hole” if you’ve never read it.
Beautiful 💖🇮🇪
Such an inspirational sentence.
"He's never seen me high or drunk" I'm so proud of this complete stranger!
Lmaoo he lives by himself with a child claiming he doesn’t drink an is sober all the time an there’s a half empty bottle of UV BLUE vodka on the fridge ... he’s probably a bum son of someone that works for east Idaho news
@@MegaSk8bros He literally said he is staying with his parents if you bothered to watch the video. Why hate on someone like this? Bringing negativity into the world will only come back to bite ya in the ass.
@@MegaSk8bros I love how you were able to evaluate the empty bottle on the shelf. But we’re unable to come to the conclusion that he doesn’t live on his own, and just because he’s sober doesn’t mean his parents are too. It didn’t even have to take seeing his stepfather in the garage in the beginning of the video, or him stating that he lives with his parents. But they gifted him a car because his was old and broke down, yet there were 2 other more modern cars in the driveway that he clearly didn’t own. It’s so obvious you just wanted to talk shit. You thought you were smart for spotting that, but you look dumb for all those other reasons. I wonder how sober you are 🤣🤣🤣
@@jerrysantangelo5188 not sober at all lol weed an whiskey
Who cares tho if u have money an are stable .. this guy almost ruined his life for nothin good guy tho I bet 👌🏼
What a great young man. Thank you to everyone who didn’t give up on him , he made it.
Yeah!. That's cool isn't it!
Amen
No
He died of an overdose in 2021.
@@redshift912why would you ever reply with the word "no"
I love when people who have money use it this way.
Matt Groters can you imagine being able to do something like this for someone?
@@oldline90 I would love to. if I had money I would be broke so quickly from giving it away. which is why I stay broke now.
@@oldline90
You can do a lot.
Homeless shelters need volunteers, it only takes time. Food kitchens need help, churches and communities need help. You can give your mail man a water bottle, little things help too. There's so much people can do! It takes all of us, not only the financially well off
The nice thing about this program is that it inspires other people to help people who need it.
@@oldline90 You don't need to do anything this big. Next time you are standing in line to get a coffee (or whatever), offer to pay for whatever the person in front of you orders.
If you are in line at a supermarket and someone takes something off their bill because they can't afford it, offer to pay for it for them.
The next time you buy a bottle of water when you are out and about, buy two and give one to a homeless person.
I love how the interviewer said “Anything you feel comfortable saying” he wanted to make sure he was still comfortable, not forcing him. Good job interviewer! Don’t see that often’
Indeed.
Our World is changing, for the better.
I loved that too
Even though he already told his whole story?
@@jaksiege9753 Hi :-) The part at the beginning where the reporter told us Brennan's story, was most likely filmed *after* the reporter had already spoke with Brennan and had gotten "the okay" (Brennan's permission) to go ahead and tell us. During editing, they put the "whole story" at the beginning as an "introduction" so that we would know what the circumstances were and what we were about to see happen.
Merry Christmas, btw. 😃
Jak Siege do you honestly think if the young man wasn’t comfortable sharing his story, they would have told his story at the beginning??!! Of course not!! This wasn’t live guys! If he wasn’t comfortable sharing his drug addiction, then they wouldn’t have put that at the beginning of the video. But since he told his story when they met up with him, then that’s when they were like, “Okay, we can tell his story at the beginning when we edit the video because obviously he is okay with it.” Idk how any of you people on here have anything negative to say about the job they did!! Sad!!
As a mom of 3 & 12 years sober from heroin, this hit me so hard. Good for him. Recovering addicts rarely are treated like human.
Edit; I'm not crying! You're crying!
Blessings to you and all
Good job! I haven’t experienced what you have, but I can only imagine how hard it was to get clean! Stay blessed, and I hope you live a great life!
@@NEbeliever ty :)
I'm crying with you; God bless.
Good for that dad who is putting his son above himself. This will help him to not only better himself but also create a better future for him and his son.
Amen Judy
He passed away :(
Where did you see he passed away?
I’m starting to think secret Santa might own a Hyundai dealership.
Mopar Casey he gave the one girl a Subaru
He must be owner of Hyundai group to give away so many cars.
And Subaru
🤭🤭👍
Ha! You made a funny! That is pretty coincidental though, is it not? Every car so far has been a Hyanda! Hmmm.
I wanna shake this dad's hand and give him a hug. Not all addicts are bad people who wanna just stay on drugs. Great job bro. Lots of love and bless your heart and soul
@Adolf Hitler one big hug sent your way
Big Huggs sent to him and his little boy for Xmas xoxo
What an awesome gift from his secret Santa
I totally agree! I have sent this to my son who is having a very bad time too!
No addict wants to stay on drugs! Some are just in a deeper darkness
Yup
Hearing him talk about his son and waking up to his smile is everything. So deserving and I wish him the best with his continued sobriety.
His step dad def went In there like “there’s some people with cameras outside looking for you” 🤣🤣🤣 you can tell by the way he came out all cautious.
I love that you’re not just highlight ‘normal’ families, people need to see that drug addicts aren’t bad people they’re just in a bad spot
Yes! Absolutely! I'm a former pill addict and been through the ringer! & I'm still smiling! I SURVIVED DRUGS AND ALCOHOL!!!! that's a major part of my life. I'm the kindest, most honest, caring person still so even though drugs took some of my personality away as far as how I used to remember fun jokes and tell good stories, it didn't break me! I'm still a great human being with lots of personality! Bless our Lord and savior, He answered my prayers. Hopefully now I can get a better job and get a place of my own, I feel so lost in life. Any helpful comments welcome, I need guidance.
@Angel Bulldog happy birthday!! Great way to start the new year.
Emily Grace Sirett roses grow best in shit, my friend. 🌹
Addictions are a world problem, no control do they have. Lie, steal, cheat many do. Choices all make in what they give and what they take. Kudos to those that recover, strong Spirits prevail...
Hello Sweetheart I’ve been clean 6 months I’ve heard after the first year it gets easier I hope that’s true
Seems like there’s one person that watches all these and down votes them. A true grinch. This guy seems like a great dad.
People who thumbs down these videos , are just plain Jelly .
I don't understand it either 🤦♀️💔❤
I think it's a bot
Haters hate... it’s what they do because they can’t open their heart. They can’t see past their own noses...
People have the right to think and like/unlike videos as they please so stfu and move on.
As someone who went through what felt like hell during my addiction, I applaud this man for making it through. I'll be 18 months sober on Christmas 2021 and I couldn't be happier. I finally moved back to my home state and have my whole family back in my life. Without them I'd still be lost.
I am beyond happy for you, Sam! You are so strong and so deserving of this beautiful change in your life. I hope your Christmas was lovely and a very happy new year to you and all your family and friends!
Keep going 💜
You got this!
Wishing you the very best Sam! I hope you have a great 2022!
Great job man! Youre killin it!
Hes so humble but broken inside. Young man keep your head up for that baby boy living.. my son changed my life
Yeah man. There’s certain things that really break someone. He’s a warrior. He will keep moving forward, but you can tell it has taken a huge toll on the guy. I hope things get better for him. Seems to be a decent person
The sad part for me its hard for him to accept when he keeps recieving loses.. everyone goes through stuff but dayum man i wish i could do more for people.. honestly and this is coming from an youngster from a horrible past..
@@Christiangonzaless998 that’s why I wish I had the kind of money people like mr beast has. Not because I want to live a super luxurious lifestyle, but because I would be able to help so many people to change their lives… there’s a youtuber like that I think his name is BI Pakhathi. A great guy. Always spreading love to those who really need
You guys are awesome!! I feel the exact same way about all of it!! I've been thru hell and I'm clean.. its a hard road to come back from..I could not handle trauma I've been thru..I believe if we face what's underlying we have a chance to make it.. the numbing is so easy..I pray everyone of us realize how to stay clean..I wish I had money to bless people.. to help change lives
@@rebeccafieldsofdreams8428 glad to know you’re overcoming your hardships. Stay strong. You are a warrior. Thanks for sharing your story with us. I wish you the best. GOD bless you
This mans woke up from a nap after working a whole day and straight away starts telling strangers openly about himself, big bros got a big heart
those of us that are recovering know that being open is the greatest way to hold ourselves accountable and make sure we dont slip. I celebrate a decade in april, and I'll tell anyone that wants to know about it.
Who knows, maybe I can help someone facing the same struggles I faced that led to my addiction
@@lawlmatty712 I can sense you have a powerful story and I'm actually curious to see if you would share your journey with me, if you don't mind, that is.
@@meluk6991 I don't mind at all, the short version of what happened that lead me to chase synthetic feelings in drugs was that I grew up in a broken home feeling like nobody wanted me. Fast forward 14 years or so, and I started to party basically any chance I got because it just felt good at the time. That ended up escalating from just drinking to abusing drugs (My preference was Methamphetamine).
I used regularly for about 2 years and was shooting up for the last 3-4 months of it. I was learning to DJ at the time so I'm sure many people could at least appreciate the appeal of a drug that makes you hyper focused and wide awake for days on end. Towards the end of my use, I had honestly already "wanted" to get clean, but my addiction was really powerful, to the point I passed amazing opportunities to make a better life for myself and always gave some stupid BS excuse as to why I had to refuse.
UNTIL! I had noticed I'd been getting way more comments on how skinny I was than I'd ever normally gotten. (I've always been a skinny guy 145-150 since freshman year of HS) That kinda planted the seed that lead me to stand on a scale and realize I had dropped to a whopping 102 fully clothed. It was a wake up call for me like no other. A friend of mine that was in the Air Force at the time bought me a train ticket to come out to Minot ND from Chicago, and I wish I could say I've never once looked back or thought about using again, but I can say I havent for the past 4 or 5 years.
After getting away from the people places and things that kept me using tho, I was able to get a job, saved up some money, started a relationship with my now wife and mother to 2 out of 3 of my beautiful daughters. All in all, I would never go back and change the fact that I used, it's help me be the person I am today. Twice just this year 2 different co-workers decided to literally start smoking meth right in front of me, all I could think about was calling my wife and hearing her voice.
This path we addicts choose to take of sobriety is honestly an extremely bumpy road, but with the right motivation, the right stimulus, its a path we can succeed on!
and when I say regularly for 2 years, I mean I would be high 5/7 days of the week, some weeks it was 7/7 days
@@lawlmatty712 Hey man, I truly appreciate you sharing your journey to overcome addiction. I can just picture you being high and DJing and such... and then taking that trip from Chitown to Minot, ND... bro, was that a culture shock or what? I actually we to Nebraska for college and thought "what have I done!" But I'm happy to hear you are well and setteled, lovely family and all. In case you're wondering, what triggered my interest was your opening line from your previous comment... "those of us that are recovering know that being open is the greatest way to hold ourselves accountable and make sure we don't slip." For some reason that hooked me. Happy Holidays to you and your family and thanks again for sharing your story with me. And I still would've read the long version if you posted it 👌.
I’m a recovering alcoholic blessed with nearly 26 years of sobriety, I wish him everything I have.
Well done. All the best from Canada.
Congratulations with love from England 🇬🇧
Congrats from England🏴
Well done sir you truly are blessed!
17 years here. Life has never been better.
Beautiful story. So glad he was given a second chance at life.
He chose it… his second chance
He wasnt given anything, he had to earn it
He passed away
@@chickinpoofy is that so? How did you hear and how did he die?
The fact that this man so openly and so willingly shared his pain in his story and possibly helped others who are struggling in similar situations prior to having any idea why the news was even there just goes to show what kind of genuine person this guy is.
Dude's kicking ass, single father, working hard and staying clean. What more can you ask, seriously.
Secret Santa whom ever you are, your one amazing person!
👍✌️
God bless him!
That's a man, right there. Not perfect, but committed to being a dad and doing his best
I love inspirational videos!!!!!! There are still good people out there
AMEN
He us mot a single father. He is living with his parents not to say he doesn't help them if older but he's not doing it alone. There is nothing wrong with this either because not 1 person in this world has ever done anything alone.
Broken people can be rebuilt and grow in the darkest of places. God bless those who use their monetary blessings with others. This is so heart warming. I love this story
@Gray_ Foxx what does that mean?
Great comment!
@Digitalbumpin wrong
Absolutely! Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only the light can do that! Those children are the light that drove out that darkness in his life!
Love that reporter, being excited but also so respectful
As the mother of an addict “s” I can’t stop crying….. God bless
it will be okay!
Lisa downs keep going lisa, pray I'll keep yours in my prayers. God bless
@@mariemiller8740 bless you marie
Don’t give up on them. Where there is life there is hope.
I can sense a bit of despair (I think) in your comment but trust me, keep hope alive. Happy Holidays, Lisa.
Just saying, as a recovering addict.... if my baby died...... I don’t think I’d be able to handle it. At all. The fact that you survived is a miracle. You’re a miracle. Your baby is a miracle. You deserve this
Losing my son was probably the biggest reason I started using. I wasn't suicidal, but I just didn't care anymore. But having my daughter saved my life.
Same. My daughter is my inspiration to stay sober. Without her, I know I'd drink myself to death. This guy is stronger than he knows.
💯❤
@Coweenuh M, you too are a miracle, read your own words 🙂🤗👏🙏❤️
i would have drank myself to death if i would have lost one of my children. it is a miracle he didnt relapse
Shoutout to every RECOVERING addict: ONE DAY AT A TIME. Good things are yet to come. We got this.!
Definitely
Keep coming back. You're worth it!
@@psychshell4644 ironic name but thats all it is hopefully. Peace sister.
Get it girl!
3 years sober 💪🏽
He’s in shock. I pray that he keeps on this straight journey. What a gift. ❤️
Negative, those are meth nap eyes 👀 he’s on the jib again I live right down the road from his parents.
@@DevinRyan How do you know hes doing that again?
He passed away
Big props to this guy. I had 3.5 years & couldn't get through the first year of covid without a relapse, this man stayed sober through that & still with the pain of a losing a baby. I hope he reaches all his dreams.
Hey I seen your comment about not being able to stay sober, I can relate to that so many time I've tried to stay sober and I would fall off the wagon I would get bored I guess you would say of sober living and that's when I would relapse but I know I can do this and so can you.... One day at a time
CL+ You have it in you to succeed, I know you do! I spent 10 years on that roller coaster ride and as you know, its miserable. I'm going to be checking back on our comments here, I'd like an update on how you're doing, good and bad! Every Christmas I'm reminded of a Mike Ness song where he says "Christmas, for a dope fiend ain't no fun." I always loved xmas but I cant count how many December 24th & 25ths were miserable for me bcuz I was sick. So dont think you're the only one! One minute at a time.
Well if you watch it again he relapsed when his daughter died off and on and this story was 2 years ago 🤔 I'm sure he's maintained the last 2 years but I wonder
I don’t know this man from a hole in a wall, but I’m so f**king proud of him! I barely cry about anything and this definitely did it.
I got clean when I found out I was pregnant with my son and I still am clean
YOU ROCK!!🎉🎉
Congrats hun!
Super proud of you. If you wasnt it would have affected your child for life. Keep taking your child to local libraries and parks, sunday school class where they do little plays on stage
Good job dear
Wonderful♥️ keep it up, rooting for you!
This guy deserves everything he received. He was so humbled. I pray he’s able to go to college and get a great paying job. May God bless him and his son!
I agree "all things are possible through Jesus Christ." 😊❤
@Andrea Y AMEN!
He deserved a better title to the video. Whoever titled the vid is extremely inconsiderate imo.
@@laska907 yeah....you know why they did though. It got the views.
@Digitalbumpin Because he tried and didn't give up..... He didn't ask for it, He didn't expect it... Its like repentance and salvation... why do you or I deserve it over it just being available to the someone who was sinless and died for us who are chosen to receive it?
anyone who recovers from addiction is an absolute badass and should feel as such.
"Do you mind sharing anything you're comfortable woth?"
Never heard so much respect in a sentence
Every "junkie" you see on the street, is someones son or daughter who just made very poor choices at some point in their live.
@Margaret GustYou just compared poeple who do drugs, to people who murder dozens of people with an assault rifle. And you call MY comment stupid ? Lol I was about to roast you, but you did that by yourself with your comment on mine.
And who is probably very deeply in pain and hurt emotionally. Most of them.
Rehab!
It's because there's fake homeless people that's why some people don't give out, I always give when I can but in my neighborhood there's this "homeless" that hops on a nice mercedez at the end of the day.
Exactly! Can happen to anyone! Hate the disease not the addict!
His son is going to be so very proud of his daddy.
@elenita jay you know, he’s been sober for two years. He has a long term plan for his life with his son. Why wouldn’t he be proud of him?
@@Vincenza8907 haters i sweaar
@@Am0ha it must be nice for people to have never had to struggle for anything. Granted, I think addicts bring it on themselves. It is their free will to start using, but it also their free will to get straight. And notice it is him alone taking care of their son. So that tells me, mom is out there usin
@elenita jay you're actually heartless. and spiteful apparently.
@elenita jay freak, he’s been rewarded for being sober how are you so dumb you can’t see that? 😂 you must be 10 years old
10 years clean in April here and I absolutely agree with him. My absolute hell days sober are a million times better than the best of best times I had high. I swear there really needs to be more programs out there like this one.
Every October 18th is one more year for me
I'm over three now
God bless you brother 🙏
Congratulations you can keep going I am in the same boat I am 2 years clean! God bless you stay strong
Looks like this baby will have a good daddy after all.
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
GetReady4LiftOff I think he always was a good daddy the fact is when the person uses or drinks to much this can effect a person physically mentally and spiritually.
my best friend was a drug addict before she had her daughter, and throughout her pregnancy she didnt want her. When she held her daughter, she said she knew she was meant to be her mom. she's been clean for almost 8 years now
bby m oh i know! My in laws have addiction problems! I know many people with addiction issues. My friend was very lucky she didnt stick with it!
Brianna the gift of a child changes us all, long may your friend stay clean
I was addicted to meth when I found out I was pregnant with my son, without my son I would have never gotten clean. I had never even had a job. God gives us children when we need them the most I feel like , my son saved my life
Im so happy for your friend i wish the best for you guys
Bri Bearden well im so proud of you! Dont let anyone ever take that away from you!!
God bless this man and his little boy. Tears flowing. Whom ever was the secret Santa here is an amazing person!✝️🙏🏻
What a good daddy, sleeping in the bed with his baby every night and staying on the right path for him! You can tell this beautiful man wanted to cry and stopped himself. Bless him and his son - I hope he made it to school!
You could see him looking over his shoulder in the car, looking at where the car seat will go. He’s a humble man and I wish him the best.
Congratulations on your sobriety Brennan 🙏 I to am in recovery, 4 years this coming may. Keep your head held high & keep up the amazing job you are doing. Happy holidays to you and your family. Secret Santa ❤️ You are awesome!!!
Congratulations on your recovery.
Stay strong!
God bless you! 😇♥️🎄⭐♥️👍♥️🙏
Congratulations on your upcoming 4 years. I'll be celebrating 20 years in February. Stay strong and know that you never have to live that old life.
Cat Savior congratulations to you!
@@zombieholic thank you very much
@@ginaevans3058 thank you very much
Sobriety was the best thing that ever happened to me and my wife.
That's humanity at its finest.. I couldn't think of any better recipient than a recovering addict. Good for you bro.. I hope you never relapse. I hope your strong enough to fight off any urges that may come your way.
His son saved his life. He deserves this gift. Bless him.
Dont ever put a person down for being an addict. An addict isnt a lowlife, they are Judges, cops, Nurses, soccer moms, etc. It affects all, not just those who live on the streets.
Wise words. Thank you for saying that...we all need a reminder and a reality check.
@Greek HanZol That is a great accomplishmemt, absolutely stellar! Good for you! 🤗
I'm so happy for you 😊 and glad you said that. My son wasn't able to do it and overdosed at 22 yrs old. It's been 9 years and I will never be the same. PTSD doesn't go away, and they're levels. I hope this íncredibly brave man doesn't read any of the comments either. Usually, I don't watch these kinds of videos myself because you see how mean people can be. You can ímagine my hurt if there were ignorant people who don't realize addiction is an illness, usually born out of trauma. It's a very hard thing to do and relapses are almost part of the recovery and NOT a failure. Support is absolutely necessary, and LOTS of it. You know all this. Thanks for letting me vent 🙂.
@@Sunnyflower67 im so sorry.
pigGRAYs hombakd very true.. Well said
This is so beautiful. People hear the word addict and that’s it they think they are useless and don’t deserve anything but don’t stop to think of what happened to them to get to where they were or are in life. It’s awful.. people need to be more aware! They deserve to be treated like human beings like everyone else!
So true. They should hear sick, not addict.
That makes me so sad but you are right.😞🙏♥️🥀
Some of the most profound minds throughout history were "addicts." I pray people never forget this. No one is useless. No one.
He looked stunned and completely lost for words 🙂
Such a deserving young man... I hope his sobriety lasts his lifetime 🙏🙌🙏🙌
We all have some form of addiction. Some are more destructive than others and some are socially acceptable. So proud of this guy’s perseverance.
This comment is so true. ☝🏻👏♥️
EXACTLY!!! I have an Eating Disorder!! Since 15 and I’m 60!!
jj m AMEN to that!!!
@@Nan-59 nan I hope you feel better soon that can be a really hard disease to battle!😢💔🙏 I wish you nothing but the best
So so true
They didn’t say much about the mother. She must still be struggling. Bless her too. I’m sure the loss of their baby sent her reeling, and I can only imagine.
He’s a single dad
She probably isn’t around
I don’t think she’s in the picture
Clearly she isn’t around y’all. It’s implied she did not get clean, though it seems at one point they were trying to get clean together. Losing her baby must’ve hurt her recovery big time.
That was my thought as well. Poor lass, that had to be soul crushing.
Props to this man for realizing what matters in life.
I'd sure like a follow up on how this young man is doing.
I go to college with him he is an amazing dad to his boy and takes a lot of pride with his car
@@dirtbiker3244 thank you!❤ just found this story. So glad to hear he's doing well. Happy Holidays Carlyn
Same!!
@@dirtbiker3244 Such respect for him.... Wishing him and his son the best!!!
Imagine the fear and anxiety over the second childs breathing after losing the first.
I'm sure that has something to do with why they sleep in the same bed :(
I still pause looking at my daughter to make sure she's breathing in her sleep. I wonder if that feeling of the first year ever goes away.
@@DiscoFang Nope. :) When they're teenagers you'll still be checking.
Having found more than one person not breathing I can tell you its something you hold with you forever
I know what it's like as I have lost a Son at the age of two, his Father at the same time, I almost died and was pregnant. I have PTSD from the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. Waking up not having your family is very traumatic. December 24, 2004 changed my life forever.
I grew up with brennan and still consider him a good friend. Proud of you bro
I'm very happy for him ☺ 😊 💕
@MARY HARTMAN, MARY HARTMAN Jesus has nothing to do with any of this, crazy lady.
MARY HARTMAN, MARY HARTMAN haha jeez buddy
@MARY HARTMAN, MARY HARTMAN lol I'm not for hate but homie, drop the bible because that's not the book you need.
@@TheWhyChange come on dude, no need for hate. Sometimes religion is the reason for a better life. It's all about what you use to get out.
Good luck to this young man and his family. A well deserved gift from the Secret Santa ❤️
Wow!! You never see recovering addicts get any praise!! Thank you, Jesus!!
I love the way he greeted them after being woken from his nap.
“It’s a pleasure.” He seems very humble and nice. I’m very happy for him.
Thank you to the guy interviewing him for being so sensitive to the situation.
@Paul Steinwall Found one who's jealous of the love being showed, over here. You okay Paul?
it’s probably really hard to give up alcohol when it’s sitting right on top of the fridge in the garage
That's the whole point. Alcohol and drugs are everywhere. Avoidance only takes them so far. Eventually they must be able to see it, have access to it and still not partake of it. It's easier for those with 30 yrs sobriety than someone with 2, but it is achievable.
As for this case...
alcohol may not have been his drug of choice
It's his parents' house
It could be empty
Congratulations to this man! He is doing everything he should, from one person in recovery to the next, I applaud you!
I almost have 2 years myself. My life has turned around big time since I stopped getting high.
Keep it bro, nothing good is easy.
Well done & congrats
Woot!!!! GOOD FOR YOU!!!!!!!!
Bless you! Keep it going. May God Keep you and continue to Bless you and Congrats!! 🥰
So happy for you! You just keep going and you will get to the happiest place in your life😘
So proud of you! It's a rough journey but we got it
Damn I’m 38 year old man crying watching this, Thank you secret Santa!!!!!and let’s thank God for the strength he gives us with the love forgiveness he always offers!
Thank you all for the like’s!
I'm so sick and tired of reading these types of comments, that grown men arent supposed to cry. Is it considered a sin or what?
Amen 🙏💖
And real men cry, and pray, and wear pink 💗👍
Jonathan Vester I’m just speaking on my behalf no one else!
Michael Gabriel You’re an amazing person....so many men can’t even almost let themselves feel that way let alone leave it as a comment...I hope you find or already have found the love of your life and have an amazingly wonderful life sir ❤️ Merry Christmas 🎁🎄
KC Court WOW thank you so much wow I’m speechless that someone as special and amazing as yourself would leave such a Comment, thank you and I wish you and everyone a beautiful life ahead! Merry Christmas!!
God Bless Brendan, his family and the secret Santa
This is so sweet, giving this Dad a hand. I hope he and his son are doing well!
I'm not surprised this poor guy relapsed when his child passed away. So glad to see him clean now and I hope he is able to win the fight against addiction
I can't even imagine the pain of doing CPR on my own child, then still loosing baby. So sorry
It's horrible. My brother was five and he passed away in 2008 it was an accidental drowning. Something called secondary drowning. He had the tiniest bit of water in his lungs and it's like he fell asleep but I had to watch my dad and mom take turns giving him CPR till the ambulance got there. He threw up his blue Kool aid and the sounds were horrible. It's forever ingrained in my mind.
@@kynlienunez9127 that's so traumatizing. I can't imagine. Hugs to you and all the best in the new year ❤️
Wow, that’s amazing. Good on him for staying clean for his son. I lost my dad at 58 because he didnt get clean until his body was wrecked. So I can say first hand your son will appreciated it so much more having you clean.
This man has strength, to come out of everything that's happened to him just fine, he's a true warrior man.
“Lost my daughter” i cant even imagine saying those words. I have a daughter thats 3 years old. I would lose it if i lost her. This man is so strong. Stay strong my friend.
I have a 4 year old daughter and that thought pops in my head alot .. cant imagine anything ever happening.
I have a 7 year old daughter 5 year old boy 4 year old boy and 14 month old daughter. my youngest busted a hole in her lung when she took her first breath and cried out. we thought for 5 days that she wasn't gonna make it. it seemed to only be getting worse. I only got to hold her the first hour before she was taken from me when they noticed she was trying to hard to breathe. I was a complete wreck. had I lost her I would have lost myself. I cannot fathom losing your child. that has to be the most heart wrenching pain. you expect to bury parents but you never expect to have to bury your own child.
In 2 1/2 years time, I lost 2 of my daughters. They were 30 and 35. I found one of them, in her apartment deceased after I had someone break the door down. That image is engrained in my mind. The other died near the end of January of this year. My heart is permanently broken and I will NEVER be the same. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't cry numerous times. The mourning period is infinite when you lose a child, no matter what age they are when they pass. I hope that this dad is doing better and things are looking up for the family. 😪😪😪💔💔💔
@@kathieschlosnagle8410 stay strong, unfortunately youre right. You’ll never be the same. It’ll all just become a new normal. Im deeply sorry for your loss. Please please stay strong, reach out to anybody close when you need to talk. You can even reach out to me.
@@hectortorres229 Thank you for your kind words. Unfortunately, I have no one to reach out to. Everyone treats me like I have a disease they could catch.....as if being nice to me may jeopardize their own children. People that used to be my friends ignore me like the plague.
I hate that so many people treat folks with addictions like they are subhuman. They are human beings that deserve love and compassion.....and a second chance.
@@Angelwings-qz5ki what do you mean sweetheart
@@Angelwings-qz5ki lol.
@Jacob Flores I am glad that hear that Jacob. I hope you have a great Christmas and a happy new year as well!
@@Angelwings-qz5ki We all make mistakes my friend. It doesn't matter. What matters most, is how we treat others. And I truly feel in my heart that second chances are deserved. I've seen many folks who have turned their lives around. I hope that you have a great Christmas with the ones you love most.
This made my day! The gifter will probably never realize all the ripples his generosity will cause for good. May the Lord Bless & Keep all it has touched & will touch.
I’m crying. I haven’t even finished watching & I’m in tears. Such a beautiful deserving soul. So kind of people. Omg….
Hell of a tear jerker there. Huge respect to any addict that over comes addiction and moves forward
🙌🙏❤
He just woke up from a nap. He probably was thinking the whole time he was still asleep and just dreaming.
In this world of chaos, it's good to know God is still ever present in people's lives. I'm so proud of this guy, and I pray he continues to be blessed by God, and have many many memories with his children in his new life. God bless you brother.
To all the recovering addicts. YOU GUYS ARE SUPERHEROS KEEP IT UP EVEN IF IT FEELS POINTLESS OR YOUR TIRED ONE DAY YOURE GOING TO LOOK BACK & YOU WONT REMEBER THE WITHDRAWALS BUT YOULL REMEMBER THE BEST DECISION YOU EVER MADE IN LIFW TO GET CLEAN
Best one yet. I smiled and cried. My son battled addiction for many years. He lost that battle 3 years ago at 22. I miss you Ryan.
Thank you for the videos
sorry for your loss 🥺❤️
My big brother lost his battle with Addiction almost 2 years ago at 28. I wish your Ryan and my Dylan could have gotten a gift like this, but for now we just need to make them proud of what we're doing and not forget them
@@sage5725 it just sucks
I'm sorry for your loss, sending you a virtual hug wherever you might be
I’m so very sorry to hear of the loss of your son Ryan. God’s blessings and peace to you. ✝️🙏💟. (Sorry to hear of Hug Dealer’s Productions little brother’s loss too. ✝️🙏💟 )
I just celebrated 10 years sober. I was abused sexually at 4&5 years old by my brother, plus lived a life full of abuse. Years ago I asked God to help change me, I hated myself and who I was. I wanted so badly to be a person who could freely and genuinely love people instead of being so caught up in my selfish victim ways. I have had quite the time, it is not easy facing all of the demons that caused me to put walls up and alot of self destruction. I wanted to have a genuine heart for people who have gone through being thrown away like myself.
I never dreamed I could make a month let alone 10yrs.
This story blessed me beyond belief and the people who are in addiction and feel theres no way to have a better life or be a better parent..... I was the worst there is and if I can do it , they can do it?
You are amazing and strong.
Good for you! Isn't amazing? We can accomplish the impossible with God's help.
I have my own traumas and have heard a lot in therapy groups. It's true that it's hard to face the demons, but it's so worth it.
Who cares
cool story sis
What a poignant example of a former addict who found his way back to sobriety...God bless this dear man, his son & family...I'm sending my genuine love to you...
MORE of this everywhere! We all fall at times, let's carry each other, not push each other further down. Bear one another's burdens joyfully. Merry Christmas and God bless the innocent hearts. 👏✝️😃👍💕🐻🎄🙏💯💜
This is a guy who has overcome great obstacles to become a better man. Congratulations on your sobriety. I'll be celebrating 20 years in February. Just live one day at a time and know that you're inspiring others.
Todd Parker : Thats awesome & amazing. Congrats to you also !!!🎈
So happy for you. That's sooo wonderful.
This story is so heartwarming it makes you want to say Carry on brother because your testimonials help people you don't even know or will ever hear from them. Keep on keeping on, So happy for you and Brennan.
Congratulations Mr Parker. Many BLESSINGS For You and Your Family. You are a Role Model for Many♥️♥️♥️
Todd Parker CONGRATS!!! :)
Todd Parker Congratulations and Merry Christmas 🎄🎄
Years ago I had a friend who was a firefighter. One day he was called to a fire and there was a baby on the third floor, he took his tank off and jump out the window with the baby. They both lived but he broke up his back and ended up on drugs. Honestly he was a good hearted man. God wants us to show love and think of the needs of others. Thank you for helping this man
How is he doing now?
Jess he died from his addiction
Damn that’s sad! Poor guy, well done to him saving that baby!
Fra Bar that’s tragic
That's amazing spirit.
I'm in tears. I wish him the best. Thank you good people of this world.
"my worst times sober are still better than the good times as an addict" That's really beautiful, I wish I felt this 💔 6 months sober and still wishing I was dead because I would rather be high.
This man is a wonderful man and father and he's been through so much. He deserved this, thank you guys for doing this. Addicts deserve compassion just like anybody else.
Atleast you have made it 6 months. I don't think I could make it 6 days.
Don't give up on yourself.
6 months will become 1 year, and then 2 and so on.
Just do one day at a time and put one foot in front of the other. Don't look back and you will beat this awful life consuming disease. You Can Do It!!
Merry Christmas Michael
@@Watchout5035. I couldn't for a long time, now I have no option because my family forced me into rehab for 4 months and my dealer cut me off. I spend most days trying to relapse.
You can tell he is a recovered addict by how he is so open and passionate. A huge step in the addiction recovery process is to be open about the addiction. Let him be an example to any of us addicts who struggle to take that step.
Yes, when my husband worked with men in a recovery program, he always said that humility was critical to success. Many guys would think, "I got this." Those who thought they could do it on their own would almost always fail. Those who surrendered to Jesus and took steps to turn and live a life of obedience to him were so transformed that you would never know they had once been addicts.
My son passed away 9 years this New Years Day. I miss him everyday. I tell him I love him everyday. I don't think even after all this time I have accepted his death. I say he's gone. I am afraid if I truly admit it I will loose it. I am so proud of you. I wouldn't wish this on any parent.
God bless you Susan, I cannot even comprehend the struggle of losing one of my kids, stay strong in your faith.
@@tommymorano7254 ty so much means a lot. I'm alone nice to know there are kind caring people even in trying times. Bless you and your family. Stay safe and Happy New Year 💖
I tell you a story. Most of my life i felt that when you die, you just die. And that you just cease to exist. There is no pain or missing or anything. When you think about it, it is hard for our brains to imagine they stop working. But several years ago i had a stroke. Not just a stroke but one of those strokes where you go to sleep and die. Happens everyday. But i woke up.My left side was frozen. Every inch of my left side was froze and swelled up and on fire. And my right hand was swelled up. Slobber all over me and the pain was too hard to explain. I was alone and had fallen asleep on the couch with my right side to the inside of the couch. I used my right arm to push me face first into the floor. Anyway i was misdiagnosed. Later on the find i had this stroke that nobody lives from and 2 different specialists missed it. Why ? Because nobody lives from it. The one day the doctor says to me ( while we are arguing ) that i should be greatful to be alive. I said i was but my left side has limited motion and he says to me that my brain is dead for that movement and they cannot figure out how i move at all. So i'm like i am supposed to be dead ? He said not supposed to be but we have all spoken and we have no idea how the hole in your head , where it is , makes any of this possible. He looks at me and says the grace of god. Then said if you believe in that sort of thing. I laughed and just thought, man i am one tough sob. Then about 3 months ago i was thinking about something. When i sleep, i notice everything. A person standing there. A bug on me or mosquito or a spider. Even a cramp or if i'm laying funny. And i dream almost every night and i remember lots of those. But this night when i'm sleeping , i had my arm and leg and head explode. My eyes in torture and hands swelled up so big they could not close. My organs were in so much pain and it felt like i had 100 vices squeezing my body. I am a big old tough guy but that is pretty extreme. But i never woke up. All of that was going on and i never woke up. Everybody who had this stroke dies and i woke up. How ? Or why didn't i wake up from all that furious pain? Then i thought god maybe did wake me up just to torture me. I did not go to the doctors after that stroke. Rehabbed myself. Saw the first doctor 5 months later. The stroke cause high blood pressure that i did not have before it. So far i am still here. Your son may have died. And I lost my grandmother and 2 uncles in the last 3 months. I am here to tell you that he is fine. You miss him and i still miss my best friend who was killed by a drunk driver 31 years ago last month. You will always miss him but he is out there. He is out there because there is no way i just opened my eyes to that kind of pain. You can talk to him and he can't answer. But he is there. Whatever god is ,tapped me on the shoulder after i died, i do believe. You take care of yourself and be safe.
@@edsmith6785 hi Ed ty so much for your story. I don't try to understand why things happen. You are and have to be a very strong person. I hope and pray you get better everyday day. I feel what you think in life that makes you weak. It doesn't if you learn from it makes you stronger.
Thinking of you and the precious presence of your son.. wishing you comfort and happiness.. please know that he’s ok and with you, loves you always☺️ take good care
I'm an addict and this guy's story gives me hope
🙏❤
Everyone makes mistakes, some bigger then others but they do not define you as a person. Keep your head up and move on. He has a wonderful son to keep him going everyday.
I myself am actually 100 days on this day sober of alcohol. My kids are what drives me to further make my life healthier. It's been a long journey and I'm thankful for my decision to quit.
how are you doing now? :)
@@lavaical sitting at 174 days strong. Best shape of my life. And most importantly full of life. My kids enjoy me better as well. An added bonus is all that extra money saved going towards the best Christmas to date.
@@bamawama1 awww that's great! keep it up man, even a stranger is rooting for you i'm sure your loving family is happy for you too dear. stay safe xx
congratulations - i wish you all the best and a healthy recovery
@@linzzyy currently at day 256 and still counting. Back in control of my life and have moved on to amazing things and have surrounded myself with positive people now.
I am a recovering drug addict i started using when i was 15 yrs old now been clean for 14 yrs he is one hell of a strong person to get himself clean to look after his son and get a good education to get a job keep your head held high because you chose a new life I'm very proud of you😊
It's amazing how having children puts everything into perspective... at least for a lot of people. Sadly not all.
“Congratulations” everyone is very proud of you 💖💯💯💯
And I’m proud of you too!!love from 🇦🇺
amanda raven Congratulations 🎊 on your 14 years sobriety
amanda raven Congratulations 😊❤️
I lost my wife and kid. Went through the same stuff... I am happy for that guy. If you guys knew what a help this can be. Keep it real big man. You got this buddy.
Wouldn’t it b beautiful if every expect father felt like this young man does- he wakes up to his son smile( loved that) he became a man 3 mos before his son was born deciding and got sober , found work stepped to b the parent every single child deserves
My sister lost her son at 3 weeks old to SIDS. She was in recovery at the time, and she just completely gave up. That was 6 years ago and she's still out there struggling. I know how hard it is to come back from something like that, many people don't. Well done to this man and his child's mother for getting themselves together after such a tragic loss.
Last part of his interview nailed it. " ... worse times sober, better than best times as an addict." The brain sober becomes your best friend and guide- the best guide you can
find in this short life. Bravo, Man!
Jhava Joe you nailed it yourself by what u said. The Brain sober becomes your best friend and guide.
What u don't realize is I needed to hear what u said. God used you to help me. I love how God works. Thank u❤️
I'd sooooo like to be that guy's friend. People with that kind of humble resolve to be the men life was calling them to be are so inspiring. And so rare. Most of us don't get tested like that. I may just look him up. Thanks for sharing.
I love people helping addicts!!! Not enough people trust us to do something amazing like this. We can change, we just need to believe we can and have others believe it too. ❤️❤️❤️
❤❤❤
Keep going Brennan, It's the best fight you will ever win. Clean 5 1/2 years...
“Congratulations”💖💯💯💯
Congratulations!!👍🙏💝🎈🎊 I've been clean for 8 months it was the hardest but best thing I've ever done
Were cheering well done !!!
@Dan el good on you brother don't even know you but proud of you for fighting that battle. Hope the rest of your days on earth are clean free,healthy and focused.
@@tamiweber7241 Thank you Tami, it's been the best 5 1/2 years :)
My dads an alcoholic, he almost died a couple months ago from withdrawal and after about a month he relapsed and I just lost hope and he says stuff that a kid should never hear like “my life doesn’t mean anything to me” after watching this I just get a feeling of reassurance keep in mind I’m only 14
Im sorry.. I really wish the best for you.
You hang in there sweetheart, maybe look for some literature for your dad to read about the proper way to wean off the alcohol. He actually shouldn't try to stop by himself, medication is necessary to assist with withdrawal symptoms. Sending Prayers to you and your family, Stay Strong and 🙏💚
Jakob Sailor have you checked out Al ATeen. Some solid support in those networks.
My dad left me when I was like 7-8 I saw him not long ago for the first time in 8 years I'm 16 now I've had to realize that addiction changes a person and their values and they need to want to be sober or it'll never happen I'm not saying give up on your dad but take what he says with a grain of salt and you gotta move on its tuff dude I get it I've cried so much over it but life isn't fair and that's j how it is gotta keep going no matter what
Jakob Sailor Jakob, two of my kids had parents in addiction. It’s been a rough road for them. As their adoptive parent, I could not love them more. They have issues they deal with. Life is a roller coaster, but it has much to offer. Bless u.
That's so scary, I'm having a son soon after my daughter and I wouldn't be able to recover if I lost either of them. God bless this dude.
I'm a glass artist of 12 years. Last year I was hit by a car while riding my motorcycle (not at fault in anyway) & shattered 7 bones and 4 surgeries later I'm alive. I'll never be 100% again or even able to do any of my passions snowboarding , motorcycles or flameworking.. I've been struggling with PTSD anxiety and depression since the accident. I've been to some very dark places a young man shouldn't go.... But this video just hit home for me BIG TIME. I've got to "keep pushing" like he said even on today like today when I wanna just end it all... I gotta keep pushing! THANK YOU good on you man love you!