Struggles to Strength: Chad's Journey of Recovery and Giving Back

CentraCare – St. Cloud Hospital Addiction Services Counselor Chad Weisser, LADC, shares his journey to sobriety with clients, recognizing the power of lived experience in the recovery process.

Chad was born and raised in Foley, where he grew up in a loving and supportive family. His father was a school superintendent, and his mother was a stay-at-home mom. After high school, Chad attended vocational school to become a diesel mechanic, but he didn't pursue that career. In his early years, Chad worked various jobs including construction in Minneapolis, where a serious accident changed his path. A wall collapse left him with a broken hip. During his recovery, he began struggling with addiction, which started with heavy drinking while on workers' compensation.

Chad's life continued to be a series of ups and downs. After returning to vocational school to become a machinist, he was laid off. He bounced between jobs including managing a golf course clubhouse and owning a business with his wife in Foley. When the business venture failed, his drinking escalated, eventually leading him to seek help at CentraCare Addiction Services program (formerly called Recovery Plus) in St. Cloud in 2011.

Chad's journey to sobriety was challenging, filled with financial strain and personal obstacles. He worked various local jobs while focusing on staying sober. In 2012, at the age of 50, Chad made the bold decision to go to college, encouraged by his family and church community. Despite his initial fears—such as not knowing how to even turn on a computer—Chad embraced the support around him and pursued a degree while balancing his responsibilities as a father and husband.

Through his church, Chad found a deeper purpose, becoming a go-to person for others struggling with sobriety. He and his pastor, who was also a close friend, developed a strong partnership, and Chad began sharing his experiences to help others. His pastor encouraged him to formalize his efforts by pursuing a career in counseling. With support from his family and church, Chad went back to school and eventually started working at CentraCare - St. Cloud Hospital's Addiction Services. Although he explored other facilities, he always found his way back to the place that had such a significant impact on his recovery.

Reflecting on Recovery

Reflecting on his time as a patient in the Addiction Services program, Chad describes it as a pivotal experience, even though he initially resisted the process.

"I was very stubborn and didn't really absorb what they were trying to teach me," Chad admits. "But I was determined to get sober and stay sober."

Over time, he internalized the lessons and began to see their value. The unwavering support of his family—his wife and three children—and his church played crucial roles in his recovery journey, along with his determination.

A significant part of Chad's success in recovery has been his continuous involvement in the community. He is passionate about giving back and frequently volunteers his time and talents to support the recovery community. One of his recent endeavors is his involvement with the Recovery Community Network (RCN), an organization in the St. Cloud area that promotes sober activities and helps individuals find resources on their recovery journeys. This year, Chad accepted a position on the board for RCN, providing him with a meaningful way to stay connected and contribute to the community that supported him.

Sharing His Story to Help Others

Today, Chad shares his journey with clients, recognizing the power of lived experience in the recovery process. While some clients may find value in having a counselor who has gone through similar struggles, Chad emphasizes that every counselor, regardless of their personal history, is dedicated to helping because of their deep commitment to addressing addiction.

Vocalizing his experiences was not always easy for Chad, but it has become an essential part of his work. He strives to balance transparency with professionalism, maintaining boundaries while offering hope.

"The thing I use the most is, if I can do it, anybody can do it," Chad says. "I was a wreck, and if sharing my story gives someone else hope, then it's worth it."

His journey from a small-town upbringing, through addiction and recovery, to helping others find their paths to sobriety, is a testament to resilience, the power of community, support and the importance of giving back.