Philip Seymour Hoffman's untimely death has caused quite a stir in Hollywood. The event has inspired one former "Desperate Housewives" star to pen a heartfelt blog post about his own experience with addiction and the motivation it takes to save your own life.
Shawn Pyfrom, who played Andrew Van de Kamp on the hit show, revealed in his recent post that he's been sober for five months. The 27–year–old actor confessed to having struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction, and is well aware that his journey to sobriety is far from over.
Pyfrom felt compelled -- apparently against the advice of those close to him -- to open up about his personal experience.
I even question whether or not I should publish this, as I type out these words. But if these words can encourage someone to hold on to their life… to keep from ever using, or to find the strength to stop; then it’s more important that these words are shared. I’ve considered what’s at stake, for myself, by sharing this -- but i find myself without regard for that. I won’t allow my selfish needs to get in the way of potentially reaching another human being’s life.
The actor makes sure to clarify that he isn't speaking from an all–knowing pedestal, or even a very experienced one, but he feels as though all stories need to be heard in the hope that one will resonate with someone in need. Pyfrom writes about his experience with being under the influence:
"…anytime a person uses drugs, they are taking the chance that their life will be taken from them. Whether they steal your breath, or rob one last beat from your heart -- that is left to fate. But they will steal your life from you. Whether you are the occasional user, or someone that uses every day. Every moment spent using drugs (alcohol included) is a moment stolen from your life. A memory you will only recall with vague reflection -- through fogged glass. Leaving an imprint in your memory, like a stamp without it’s ink. that is, of course, my own realization."
In an honest confession, Pyfrom writes that he once "lived for drugs," which he allowed to control his interests and pleasures while simultaneously diluting them. Now, he wants people to open their eyes to the self–sabotage that results from addiction and substance abuse.
For Shawn Pyfrom's full blog post, visit his tumblr page.
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