Fighting for Yourself

My name is Russell, and I’m a father, a former Welsh Boxing Champion, and someone who knows firsthand how addiction can take everything from you. But I also know that recovery is possible. I’ve been alcohol-free for two and a half years now, and I’m using my experience to help others find their way out—just like I did.

“I Couldn’t Drink Like Other People”

When I started out in boxing, I had it all. I was young, ambitious, and winning titles. But I quickly realised I couldn’t drink like other people. Some could go out, have a few pints, and call it a night. That wasn’t me. For me, once I started drinking, I couldn’t stop.

At first, it was about celebrating after a fight. But when I found out I got paid the same amount whether I won or lost, something shifted. I started taking on tough fights just for the money, knowing I’d probably lose. And when I did, I’d take that cash and drink it all away.

“It Was a Slippery Slope”

Before I knew it, alcohol was controlling me. I thought I needed it—to feel like I belonged, to be the funny, outgoing guy. But it didn’t take long before I wasn’t winning fights anymore. I was just getting hurt, fighting for money to fund my drinking.

Eventually, the drinking took over everything. My friends disappeared. The money ran out. I went from being a national champion to sitting alone in my flat, finishing off one to two bottles of vodka a night. That was my life for over two years.

Things hit rock bottom when I got arrested for shoplifting. That was my wake-up call. I had lost everything—my career, my friends, my dignity. That’s when I found Kaleidoscope, and that’s where my recovery started.

“Honesty Was My Way Out”

One of the biggest things that helped me in recovery was honesty. I’ve always been open about my struggles, and that’s made a huge difference. If you don’t tell people you’re struggling, they won’t know.

I’ve been to parties in the last two years where people have put drinks right in front of me, trying to get me to have one. But I’ve learned how to say no. I know where that road leads, and I’m not going back there.

Today, I work as a Key Worker at Kaleidoscope’s Welshpool base, helping others who are battling addiction. Across Powys, we support over 450 people, and I see every day that recovery is possible.

Caroline, my Service Manager, always says how proud she is of me, how I’ve turned my life around. But really, I’m just doing for others what Kaleidoscope did for me—offering support, guidance, and hope.

“Addiction Can Grip Anyone—But There Is a Way Out”

Now, I’m a better father, a better husband, a better brother, a better son. And I want people to know that addiction doesn’t discriminate. It can happen to anyone, from any background. But there is help out there.

If you’re struggling, I promise you—walk through our doors, and you’ll be met with a warm smile and a cuppa. You don’t have to do this alone.