Michael Phelps: The American Comeback Story
Since the Olympics raged in Rio de Janeiro, Michael Phelps yet again made big waves for the United States in swimming. Though this was his fifth (and most likely last) Olympics, he has won more metals than more than 140 countries can claim. He began as a prodigy by making the Olympic team in 2000 at 15 years old, and has since become America’s poster child for domination at the games.
Though Michael Phelps is nothing short of an American hero, that title has not come without hardship and downfalls along the way. He pleaded guilty to a DUI charge shortly after the Olympics in Athens. Then, back in 2009, a photo surfaced of Phelps smoking a bong in Germany that caused much international backlash, including a three-month suspension from US Swimming. The third and final issue occurred in 2014 after Phelps was pulled over after going 85 mph in a 45-mph zone and blew a .14 (the legal limit is .08). He was charged with driving while intoxicated, excessive speeding, and crossing double lane lines.
This third and final arrest was the most intense because it hinted at much bigger problems than just one bad decision that night. His family convinced him to check into a 45-day alcohol treatment program in Arizona in hopes that he would recognize that he could not fix his problems on his own. He emerged from his stay at rehab more determined and focused than ever while training for the upcoming national championships. He soon had the swimming world buzzing once again for his impressive performance and renewed discipline in San Antonio.
Fast forward to the 2016 Olympic games. Phelps won five gold medals—in the men’s 4x200m freestyle relay, 200m butterfly, 4x100m freestyle, 4x100m medley, and the 200m individual medley. Not only is Phelps the poster child for American Olympic domination but also for overcoming addiction and adversity. While it would have been easy for Phelps to concede to a lifestyle of alcohol and drugs, his family and friends refused to let him continue down that path. While it unfortunately led to multiple arrests and charges, he did not let those losses define the rest of his life.
Michael Phelps is a perfect example that demonstrates that drug addiction can happen to anyone, but also proves that complete recovery is possible, as he is now back at the top of his game and dominating the field. If you are ready to take back your life and find success in recovery and wholeness, talk to one of our trained treatment specialists today at (888) 507-1355. We would love to help you find the treatment center that meets your unique needs and sets you on the path to sobriety.
