83. Living to Die - Part 2 (w/ Brandon and Cary Sanders)

In this powerful episode, guests Brandon Sanders and his wife Cary Dawn Sanders share an unflinching, firsthand account of long-term addiction, relapse, and radical restoration through faith. Brandon—once a nurse who spiraled into pain‑killer abuse, prescription fraud, and years of heroin and meth use—and Cary—who battled similar darkness and suicidal thoughts—walk listeners through the events that led them to rock bottom and the faith‑based programs that helped them rebuild. Topics include the early prescription that sparked addiction, life as a double‑life addict, arrests and pretrial diversion, secular rehab vs. faith programs like Teen Challenge and Wings of Life, suicidal ideation and near‑death experiences, the role of community and toxic relationships in relapse, and the practical steps they took toward restoration: surrender, ministry, counseling, and family reconciliation. Key moments: Brandon’s surrender in a hotel room, Cary’s encounter with the Holy Spirit, their meeting while serving outreach, marital courtship under pastoral oversight, and later miracles including restored relationships and the reinstatement of Carrie’s nursing license. Listeners can expect candid stories about shame, loss, and recovery, reflections on how Christ overcomes addiction and brokenness, and actionable encouragement about staying connected, avoiding premature relationships in early sobriety, and trusting grace. This episode is for anyone facing addiction, supporting a loved one, or seeking hope in the midst of despair.