Often, when individuals resonate with a story, curiosity extends beyond the narrative itself and delves into the person behind it. In the realm of personal stories of recovery and transformation, “Dr. Mike” from Topeka, KS, has touched many with his candid account of battling alcoholism and finding solace in sobriety. This has naturally led many to wonder, “How Old Is Doctor Mike?” While the exact age of Dr. Mike isn’t explicitly stated, his journey, marked by decades of experience as a medical professional and his profound recovery journey, speaks volumes about a life richly lived and lessons learned over time.
Dr. Mike’s narrative, shared within the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), unveils a man who dedicated 40 years of his life to medicine as a medical oncologist before retiring in July 2016. His professional life, characterized by expertise and dedication to healing others, stood in stark contrast to his personal battle with alcohol. He openly shares his initial foray into treatment in 1987, revealing a period of “physical sobriety” that spanned approximately 14 years. However, as he poignantly describes, this sobriety was devoid of emotional depth.
During this phase, Dr. Mike candidly admits to living a “self-centered life” and grappling with a “spiritual malady.” His decisions, rooted in self-interest, led to harm for both himself and those around him. This period highlights a critical distinction in recovery – the difference between mere abstinence and genuine emotional and spiritual healing. He recognized a profound disconnect, a life that, despite outward sobriety, was “not working” and filled with “emotional pain.” It was in this state of despair that he turned back to alcohol, seeking a solution in “Kahlua and cigars,” only to find deeper defeat.
The pivotal moment in Dr. Mike’s journey arrived on February 8, 2002. In a moment of utter surrender, at 2:30 in the afternoon, he knelt and uttered a heartfelt plea: “God please help me, I don’t want to live like this anymore.” This marked a profound turning point, a recognition of his powerlessness over alcohol and a willingness to seek help beyond himself.
His return to AA, an organization he had encountered after his initial treatment in 1987, became the cornerstone of his lasting recovery. He re-engaged with the fellowship, finding support and guidance from “wonderful people” who aided him in working the Twelve Steps to the best of his ability. The meeting format, characterized by open discussions, fostered a sense of community and belonging. Crucially, he found a sponsor, a mentor he connected with daily, providing consistent support and accountability.
Dr. Mike’s story underscores that recovery is not merely about ceasing alcohol consumption; it’s about embarking on a journey of emotional and spiritual growth. His experience resonates with many who seek to understand the complexities of addiction and the transformative power of recovery. While the question “how old is Doctor Mike?” might stem from a simple curiosity about his age, his narrative reveals a timeless wisdom gleaned from facing adversity and embracing the path to healing. His journey serves as an inspiring testament to the possibility of redemption and a life transformed through the principles of recovery.
