It Can Happen to Anyone

A loving home, a father’s cancer diagnosis, and a teenager who didn’t yet have the words for fear. Brian Cunningham’s story shows how addiction can grow in the quiet spaces we overlook.

What began with marijuana and alcohol as a coping tool shifted at seventeen when cocaine entered the picture. From the outside, he still looked like the “good kid” in sports and choir. Inside, nights stretched long, money disappeared, and the lies got heavier. Brian recounts the moment everything fell apart and his choice to seek inpatient treatment.

At the heart of this story is the second family he found in recovery, and the practical steps anyone can take to begin their own journey toward healing. 

Podcast Guest

  • Brian Cunningham, OASAS Addiction Program Specialist 2 

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Feature Quote

It doesn't really matter where you came from. You know, we're all starting to understand that addiction is a brain disease and can affect anybody. I'm a walking example of coming from a loved, great, supportive family, and still ended up almost throwing my life away and almost ending up in a grave. And luckily I was able to turn it around.

—Brian Cunningham

Resources