Q&A with Chris Herren, Founder of Herren Wellness

STICK WITH THE WINNERS! –

January 20, 2021 – An extraordinary basketball player, Chris Herren was a celebrated star in his native Fall River, MA before graduating high school. He went on to play at Boston College and Fresno State, two seasons in the NBA – including one with his hometown team, the Boston Celtics – and seven seasons overseas before losing it all to the disease of addiction.

With the unwavering support of his family and friends, Chris has been sober since August 1, 2008, and he now shares his story with the goal of making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Q. If you are in recovery, what was your Drug of Choice? When did you stop using?
A. My recovery date is August 1, 2008. Since my teenage years I struggled with alcohol and drugs, which progressed to pills, then heroin and vodka. Being a high-level basketball player managing a serious emotional and substance use disorder, I always had this internal battle. This past August, I celebrated 12 years sober.

Q. Do you think addiction is an illness, disease, a choice or wicked twist of fate?
A. I truly believe that addiction is a disease that is multi-layered. It can be brought on by a traumatic experience, genetics plays a part and it always starts with one drink or one blunt. The scary thing about addiction is that you don’t know who it will impact until you pick up.

Q. Do you log on to Zoom 12-Step meetings? How often? Do you share?
A. Zoom meetings have become an unbelievable resource for people in recovery and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic. To be able to connect with people in recovery through a virtual meeting has been such a gift and one that I am fortunate to participate in through my nonprofit, Herren Project. They offer virtual recovery meetings every night and online support for families. When I join, I choose to listen and be present. I feel like I share my story often enough and a meeting is my time to provide support.