Beautiful I cried so much ! So touching I’ve never been a drug attic but I had drug attic parents n an ex husband and addiction is a very very serious sickness we suffered with them me and my siblings with our parents and me and my children suffered with their father 😭 this touch my heart I’ve always wanted a place like this for people that i luv n see today still hurting GOD BLESS U ALL And every night from this moment on I’ll always pray for Brooks house and all the people in it God bless you to her father 🙏🏻🙌🏻💯😭
As someone who has been in treatment myself… Inpatient to…Addiction has to be talk to students early on… It’s not always a choice and it can be strictly bio chemical
I was a heroin addict for 2 years, 17 years ago. It's hard but quitting is not impossible. My brother died from complications of his addiction. I have to live for him now.
Rose I congratulate you for staying clean . You’re a blessing to many out there struggling. Yes you’ve to live for your brother and for so many that want to get sober. Blessings to you and your family 🙏
@Mean Azz yeah, your name says it all. I hope to God you don't have any children because they certainly will be raised up with no compassion from you. Must be nice to be perfect.
As a person in recovery, this truly touched my heart. I was a heroin addict for 5 years. I will be a year clean on June 16th. This story just reinforces my strength to keep fighting the good fight. Not everyone is lucky to get out alive. My condolences to Brooke's family and loved ones. Her parents, along with that community, are true heroes. You guys are amazing, thank you for your care and empathy. Sending everyone in recovery and even in active use much love and positive vibes. You guys can do this, even if you relapse, don't give up.
Sara A I am very proud of you. it is not easy at all. people that say that it is has never ever been there. I used to tell the families of my inmates that, " we have them clean now, they have been here a couple of weeks, now starts the very hard part." they would look at me so puzzled. I had to tell them "for soooo many using, it is because of what is going on around them. and to feel better for an hour or so, will mean everything to them." " just to feel better and maybe pretend at that time they have no worries." many do not understand, I do. clean since 81. you can continue to do this. just one hour at a time. always reach out when something bothers you. but You can do it. very proud of you Sara a
Thank you so much, you all are so very kind. It means so much to read your supportive messages. I wish you all the best on all your endeavors this year. Sending all of you much love 😘
I lost my beautiful 28 y.o. daughter 14 years ago to an overdose, it haunts me to this day. Your story touched me deeply, and you have turned an awful negative into a positive with what you are doing. Bless You and your family
I am so sorry for the loss of your daughter your loss of your daughter will never go away and the pain but your daughter will always be with you in mind and spirit bless you and your family
Ian, I am so very sorry for your loss. I just cannot imagine anything worse than losing a child. I lost two during pregnancy and that was hard enough. My heart breaks for you. I pray that you know the Lord's comfort and have felt His love for you!
My BFF lost her youngest son in 2010, he drowned on her birthday. He had issues with drugs. Last June(2020) she lost her oldest son to a drug of sorts, food. Watching her I know that you are right, no pain can compare. May God comfort you and the parents of Brooke.
Such a sad story. Congratulations on opening up Brooke's house. You are doing an amazing thing helping out all these people who need the help.. Thank you from the bottom of my heart
Whoa. I immediately balled into tears. I work in the mental health field and this struggle of finding dual diagnosis help is rare in my city as well. It’s sad but we continue to remain hopeful 💔 my prayers go out to this beautiful family
I myself am in recovery from Heroin. Just passed 3 years this January! This touched me so much. More people need to watch this. My heart goes out to this father and family. Such a sad sad story. Thank you for sharing your daughters story. 💚💚
Brooke was on this earth for a reason, the reason is now there is Brooke's house helping people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol. It is sad the way she died, but she had earned her wings and is watching over all what is going on. My condolences to the Brookes family may God lead you further in the right direction and give you all peace.
As a recovering opiate/heroin addict, this seriously touched my heart and my soul. I have 3 years sobriety, and I'll do my best to stay clean to honor those who have lost the fight to this insidious disease.
"9 out of 10 times that person doesnt want to be out there" this is something any family needs to realize, most of the times the addict doesnt want to be a addict. but i know their struggles..
People dont realize how painful heroin withdraw is. They just compare it to a painful experience theyve had and say no big deal, youll get through it. Its a kind of pain you cannot understand until youve been through it. Its more servere than anything youve felt, and you will do literally anything to make it stop. I wish more people understood that.
@Pieces of April Rose Is "Pieces of April Rose" the name of something popular or are you, Miss April Rose, simply a very prolific commenter? I see you EVERYWHERE!
Sorry, PAR, but thats some serious Kumbaya stuff right there. In the entire history of the world that has never happened, and it never will. Life is hard, people are hard, people are cruel, the sooner everyone accepts it the better off we will be. Dancing with the devil and shooting up hard dope just makes everything worse.
Wow..this made me cry. I'm 14 months clean now..this disease is sick. God Bless Brooke & All her family. Beautiful what her father has carried on to do and help their community. There's this Persian proverb that goes "I died a lot To live a little With you" Recovery is worth it.
I’m glad he realized that addiction is not a choice. It’s a disease and it doesn’t discriminate no matter who you are and no matter how good standing your family is to the community. We need more people like this man in the world. There are so many great people who are addicts and they get looked at as scum. I’m one of those people. I have an amazing family who supports me but many addicts don’t! This man is a life saver and I’d shake his hand and give him a big ole hug and thank him for understanding the life of an addict, and tell him that his daughter was an absolutely beautiful woman who although was a sick girl, she had an enormous heart and was and will always be a magnificent soul in his life. Bless you and your family and thank you so much for what you do and understanding that we’re all people, all equal whether you have the disease of addiction or not.
As a recovering heroin addict I can promise you she didn't want to hurt you and didn't want to die. It's a daily struggle and it breaks my heart to see how it's broken you. All my condolences
You can hear the pride in his voice as he speaks about what they do to support people. You sir, are amazing. And Brooke will always be with you every step of the way. She is proud of you.
What an honor to his daughter Brooke’s life. I’m sure she’s watching this and is happy because she knew her daddy was a hero and could help people. This is one of the most gut wrenching stories ever and he’s an incredible man & father. 🙏
As sad as it is, his personal experience opened his eyes to the reality of a hard life, and its admirable that he could see and learn that. How humbling that he chose to do more with the result than grieve and step away. His heavy heart will create a line of empathy for others to seek help thru him. xx
It is so sad and sick that this is how he had to learn that people need help not handcuffs. I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. Thank you for honoring her life and being so resilient.
One of the things I always thought was weird is that people want to throw addicts into jail, then are surprised when they return to their old lives after they're released. With a felony on your record, it's going to be nearly impossible to get a job that's actually worthwhile. We want addicts to change, do better, but we cripple them further, limiting their ability to do better. It's like seeing someone drowning, so you throw them an anchor, then act surprised and disappointed when they end up fully drowning.
@@kylereed5161 I'm not suggesting that people shouldn't have consequences for their actions, I'm suggesting that if you want to take people who are criminals due to addiction and reform them, something other than traditional prison needs to happen. If you want to cut down on criminal behavior, and the root cause is addiction, the prison system as it is does not help create healthy, functioning humans; I would imagine it further hardens and dehumanizes people who, without their addiction, would be "normal" members of society. Further, by limiting their ability to get a good job, you create conditions that make it incredibly difficult to turn one's life around. Clearly, habitual offenders of violent crimes, and/or those who commit vile acts against others, are of a different class altogether, and I have no sympathy for them.
This really touch my heart! My Son is incarcerated for drugs use, and I was so shocked how little is done to help! The judicial system is such a mess! They push to lock people up and throw away the key! God Bless to this family and all suffering!
What an amazing father. I’ve heard so many stories of parents just kicking their kids to the curb and regardless of his civic duty he was there for her till the end. And then made her dream came true 🥺
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I know, some people you just cant save, but there are some you can!!! Thank you for what you both are doing!!!
This father is incredibly inspiring. It’s so nice to see someone being REAL & EMPATHETIC. What a heck of a dad! His daughter is over the moon excited watching him do all that for her ❤️ That’s love.
You are a remarkable man! In one of the worst moments of your life you have turned it around to help others. RIP Brooke. I pray you receive signs from Brooke from heaven as I receive signs from my 21 year old son who passed away in 2019.
I LOVE THIS❤️ I’ve been off the streets of Philadelphia PA for 9 1/2 years! I was in and out of jail, finally court ordered to inpatient treatment! I wanted to get clean soo bad! I just didn’t know how to live with the heroin and crack! I was suffering with emotional pains & guilt. Took 4 different treatments and 9yrs later Still in therapy! I’m sane & sober! Have beautiful children, and I am worthy of happiness! And every addict is worthy! These are people suffering!
This man had a beautiful heart. Unfortunately it always takes someone to know or be related to someone deep into addiction before they truely understand the disease. We needs to educated more. I hope he keeps telling Brookes story & informs others .
Absolutely heartbreaking. I’m 2 years clean from Percocet myself and seeing this father re live this experience brought back some dark memories from my own family. Drugs tear families apart.
I just wanted to say, "" Thank you"" for telling Brooks' story, building the center so that people may receive counseling and job training there, as well as , offering these people hope for finding their sobriety again which in turn opens the door to a better future. Kudos!! Thanks for sharing this with us !!💜💙💜
I can totally relate to what he saying it's impossible to get your child into treatment. Almost 4 years ago this happened to my son except they dragged his body down the he was missing for 3 days before someone found him my little boys was there for 3 days while bugs crawling all over him . The cop's said thank goodness another drug addict gone and did nothing to person or person's that did this to my only son. I miss you J
That's a terrible thing to say about someone who passed from an overdose..shame on them.!!! I lost my little brother and my closest friend to an OD.. we were the ones trying to help so when our loved one passes, we feel guilt over it. We shouldn't tho. I'm sorry for your loss. Your loved one wasn't just another addict.💚
I was a heroin addict, first starting with percocet that was legally prescribed after major surgery. I just celebrated 6 years sober this March. This story had me in tears because I know it too well. Brooke was such a beautiful person and I am sad that she wasn't able to get the help she needed while she was alive but her dad is a huge inspiration and I am so glad that this opened his eyes that addicts are people too, broken people who need help. Addiction can affect anybody!
I've always told my daughters, "I wish you were small enough for me to be able to tuck you in my pocket to always keep you close, and safe". Children make us so vulnerable to the evils of this world. We have to trust God each and every day to keep them safe. May He give you strength, and grace to carry on. Your daughter is beautiful and she will always be her father's daughter. I am truly sorry for your loss.
No one *wants* to be an addict. Addiction grabs a person by the guts and dares them to run. Thank you so much for helping, and for helping others to see what addiction is truly like
What a bittersweet story. The pain in this man's voice when he talks about losing his daughter AND realizing his whole life was a lie is so deep. It's lovely how he made his daughter's dream come true.
All I can say is this is a beautiful tribute to Brooke, a father's love knows no end. I can see that him helping these ladies get better is healing him as well🙏🏿💜
I just watched, you brought me to tears. I can say I am a recovering addict of crack cocaine and heroin. I have 9 years clean but I slipped 2years for 6 weeks and regretted it. I dont care who you are you are never recovered we are only recovering one day at a time. I'm so glad that Brooke had great parents that saw and tried to help her in stead of shaming her. I was on the streets for 13 years and finally my last o.d. was my last. So plz for those who are comeing clean and staying clean, pls belive you are not missing a thing. I'm clean again but I did not take 8 in a half years away from being clean. I lost my husband and i turned to drugs, i gave my children to my mother wich was a mistake. I have lost so much due to my choice to use. Only 1 out of 3 of my children talk to me and grandchildren that I'm not allowed to see.plz think your life through befor you decide to choose drugs because it's not just your self that suffers with addiction in this ruthless world. God BLESS to everyone that has this battle and fight with me. to stay clean. Much love to the parents of Brooke and I'm so sorry for your lose. You have done a wonderful thing by helping and understanding. Thank You!!!!!!!
This really touched my heart. What a amazing person Brooke was knowing that deep down u would understand and help she knew her Dad's heart. And you kept your promise and are helping so many ppl it's so touching and amazing. Thank you for saving lives 🙏
I remember first hearing her story and hearing him tell it and I thought "another case of 'I only care because it affects me'" and I kinda still feel this way. Why is it people are only passionate about things when they have personally been touched by it?
Have you never held a position on anything in life, only to have someone educate you to facts that changed your thinking? As we go through life we continue to grow and educate ourselves, or at least we should, as that is one big component to gaining compassion and empathy. I grew up in the 70's & 80's and I know that the research and understanding of how addiction works, is light years ahead of where it was back in the day. When we know better, we do better!
That’s human nature, if you’ve never experienced something it’s very hard to empathize. There are so many problems in the world imagine if we took all of them on emotionally. We wouldn’t survive a week.
God, or the universe only can teach a lesson to some by making them experience things in life that they can not comprehend without direct contact within their lives, to show how it personally feels, and changes people. Some have to learn empathy, even when they are very capable of empathy in other situations, they aren’t capable of understanding without losing their ignorance towards what one is brainwashed with learning something is about.
Tears are pouring down as I write this; what a wonderful, loving & compassionate family!! God bless you for this AMAZING GOOD thing you have started... Saving lives & giving us a chance. Thank you from all of my 💜!!
I am a recovering heroin addict and this year July 25 will make 10 years I have been clean. I have overdosed three times and I really shouldn’t be here today but by the grace of God go I. I have seen many videos about addiction, but this one has touched my heart more than any one I have ever seen. People just remember that addiction is never a choice and every addict is somebody’s somebody. Their lives are not a waste and will never ever be in vain. May Brooke rest in Paradise ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈
This gave me chills through my tears. Heartbreaking. I am so grateful to this fine man for sharing this story. I love this man for speaking the truth. May every American hear it.
What great parents,I went to my mother and I told her I was a addict and I was kicked out and my family never spoke to me again,now 20 yes later I have 3 beautiful kids and I'm clean,my life didnt change overnight and it wasn't always easy but I done it and I have 3 kids that have grown into amazing adults,my daughter is in uni learning to be a a midwife,my son just joined the armed forces and my other son is a labourer I'm so proud of them and of myself alone I turned my life around but my heart will always hurt that my own mother found it so easy to turn me out of her life,rip Brook
I don’t know how you turned your life around without love and compassion. My husband and mom love me so much I had to get better for them. I would never do it for myself. Tough love wouldn’t work for me.
@@ana-bananainca790 I'm so glad I had the strength to pull myself out of it,lucky I done it in spite,I think I got by with just wanting to prove my family wrong that not once a junkie always a junkie,because some of us come out the other side,it still hurts me though and I really wish it didnt,
I commend Mr. Simmers for all of his hard work. All four of my siblings and some of their children have been on drugs. I loss two sisters from overdoses. It's so hard. I love all them dearly and have done all I can to help them, but just couldn't. Now, I won't even let them know where I live and won't go around them. I wish them well.
I hate that for you Padussia, that you cannot be around family because of what addiction has done to your loved ones. You did what you could, please give yourself some grace. Live your best life, gentle hugs. 💕
When we know better, we do better. If that is you in your profile photo, I am quite sure I am older than you, I lived through the 'Just Say No' philosophy to drugs in the 80's. Research into addiction was light years behind where it was back in the day. As the medical profession has come to understand addiction, so has law enforcement.
Omg was in tears watching that.something definitely needs to be done everywhere in the world.people need to start caring more for each other and helping those less fortunate.sending love and prayers your way🙏❤❤
OMG... I HEARD YOU SIR! This call is one of the most awakening message and réalisation of the reality of actual need, what you have done for Beautiful Brooke and still doing in the name of Brooke’s ars. God bless you and your wife, and as for Brooke I am so sure that she is looking over you and be soo proud of what you are doing for her and others with addictions.
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Bless you.
@@katiekorell9776 ij
Beautiful I cried so much ! So touching I’ve never been a drug attic but I had drug attic parents n an ex husband and addiction is a very very serious sickness we suffered with them me and my siblings with our parents and me and my children suffered with their father 😭 this touch my heart I’ve always wanted a place like this for people that i luv n see today still hurting GOD BLESS U ALL And every night from this moment on I’ll always pray for Brooks house and all the people in it God bless you to her father 🙏🏻🙌🏻💯😭
This should be required viewing in all police departments & schools.
AGREED!!
Agree
I agree. Definitely.
As someone who has been in treatment myself… Inpatient to…Addiction has to be talk to students early on… It’s not always a choice and it can be strictly bio chemical
It won’t be viewed. I was in law enforcement for 15 years. It’s all about the money....
I was a heroin addict for 2 years, 17 years ago. It's hard but quitting is not impossible. My brother died from complications of his addiction. I have to live for him now.
Rose I congratulate you for staying clean . You’re a blessing to many out there struggling. Yes you’ve to live for your brother and for so many that want to get sober. Blessings to you and your family 🙏
@@ec8787 Thank you.
Im proud n in awe of ur perseverance! U are awesome! Continue to share ur story!
Good job mamas 🤍 much love ❤️
Rose God bless you and we are proud of you 🤗🤗💝 💘 keep on keeping on
Now this is how you honor your daughter's life. Many lives will be saved thanks to that man. How bitter sweet.
Man I swear Frfr super bitter-sweet
No it won't their lives will be saved when they're ready to save it🤷🏾♂️
@@isiahconrad6243 people need a loving and warm place to turn to, when they're ready. This place will provide that. xx
@@isiahconrad6243 yes it will. That is why they are there so their call for help can be answered
@Mean Azz yeah, your name says it all. I hope to God you don't have any children because they certainly will be raised up with no compassion from you. Must be nice to be perfect.
You're a true hero. Being able to admit mistakes made over you career, honoring your daughter and protecting the city! Thank you for Brooke's house!
As a person in recovery, this truly touched my heart. I was a heroin addict for 5 years. I will be a year clean on June 16th. This story just reinforces my strength to keep fighting the good fight. Not everyone is lucky to get out alive. My condolences to Brooke's family and loved ones. Her parents, along with that community, are true heroes. You guys are amazing, thank you for your care and empathy. Sending everyone in recovery and even in active use much love and positive vibes. You guys can do this, even if you relapse, don't give up.
Please never ever give up. Keep fighting forever
Sara A I am very proud of you. it is not easy at all. people that say that it is has never ever been there. I used to tell the families of my inmates that, " we have them clean now, they have been here a couple of weeks, now starts the very hard part." they would look at me so puzzled. I had to tell them "for soooo many using, it is because of what is going on around them. and to feel better for an hour or so, will mean everything to them." " just to feel better and maybe pretend at that time they have no worries." many do not understand, I do. clean since 81. you can continue to do this. just one hour at a time. always reach out when something bothers you. but You can do it. very proud of you Sara a
we love you.
& we’re so very proud of you.
keep up the amazing work! ❤️
I’m so proud of you. Keep going girl😄
Thank you so much, you all are so very kind. It means so much to read your supportive messages. I wish you all the best on all your endeavors this year. Sending all of you much love 😘
Im crying like a baby. What an incredible family.
omgosh girl me too 😭😭
hope ur doing well 💌💌
@7:20-7:40 😭🙏
me too 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭😭
I'm not crying, YOU'RE crying!
@@d0ugh2k "youre gunna cry, than im gunna cry, than we're all gunna cry.." !!!!
I’m sobbing right now. I “felt” his anguish, his deep pain. What a beautiful daughter, what a loving Dad. My heart breaks for their family. 💔
I’m so relieved that we’re moving towards a place of compassion for addiction.
Isn't that the truth. ♡
it's really difficult to see your child's life fall apart right in front of your eyes, especially when you just want to help them
Charlatte, I sense that you are speaking from personal experience. You are not alone.
@@JustMe-gh7ib I lost my daughter from an overdose, the worst pain I have ever experienced.
@@jodeepace Mom to Mom, I am so very sorry.
AMEN 🙏🙏
@@jodeepace I can not even imagine my heart breaks for you and your child. 🙏🙏
I lost my beautiful 28 y.o. daughter 14 years ago to an overdose, it haunts me to this day. Your story touched me deeply, and you have turned an awful negative into a positive with what you are doing. Bless You and your family
I am so sorry for the loss of your daughter your loss of your daughter will never go away and the pain but your daughter will always be with you in mind and spirit bless you and your family
So very sorry for your loss! Embrace your beautiful memories! 🌸🌸🌸🙏
@@chanelgez2146 Thank you for your lovely thoughts
@@gayledimitri5887 Thank you so much for your lovely thoughts, they touch me deeply. Bless you Gayle...................Ian W
Ian, I am so very sorry for your loss. I just cannot imagine anything worse than losing a child. I lost two during pregnancy and that was hard enough. My heart breaks for you. I pray that you know the Lord's comfort and have felt His love for you!
I lost my son as well. No pain can compare. I admire you so much. Thank you soo much
I can't imagine. I'm truly sorry
♥️
Big hugs
My BFF lost her youngest son in 2010, he drowned on her birthday. He had issues with drugs. Last June(2020) she lost her oldest son to a drug of sorts, food.
Watching her I know that you are right, no pain can compare. May God comfort you and the parents of Brooke.
So sorry for your loss. I lost my daughter like Brook they threw her on the side of the road like trash.
Such a sad story. Congratulations on opening up Brooke's house. You are doing an amazing thing helping out all these people who need the help.. Thank you from the bottom of my heart
He tried to save his daughters life.😔🙏🏾
And look how many daughters lives he did save. Beautiful
I've been in recovery for 6 months. And I feel amazing. This story is so inspirational! Sober life is so much better!!!
That's awesome.! Keep pushing.!!🥳💙
Whoa. I immediately balled into tears. I work in the mental health field and this struggle of finding dual diagnosis help is rare in my city as well. It’s sad but we continue to remain hopeful 💔 my prayers go out to this beautiful family
I’m 4 years clean from Heroin & fentanyl.
Words can’t describe how sorry I am.
You’re a hero❤️
You must have been constipated
Good job sweetie. My brother in law just died from it. Stay strong and continue with help.
@@nibsbrooke5251 I'm so sorry for your loss. Addiction is horrible.
Thank you so much for your kindness 💖
Good for you! Congratulations and blessings your way 😊🌸😊🌸😊🌸✌️
You are so strong girl!! I’m so proud! 🥳
The love of a parent to their child can be truly amazing and this father is beyond amazing!!!!!
@F Trakk How do you figure?
@F Trakk Man, have some dignity
I just love this man. What a beautiful soul.
What an amazing dad. And the realization about what addiction really is and how it should be treated. He is a real hero.
Love this guy for admitting and realizing his mistakes he was blind to in our corrupt and broken system
I saw it as placing blame.
🙄🙄🙄😒😒😒
The best comment up here!
@@kellygreen7275 oh wow
I’m glad you found a way to take this tragedy and change your outlook and help people. Truly sorry for your loss.
He was a sick until it hit home, imagine how many people he put in jail until it was his own kid!
@@sierrachoco5271 he thought jail was the answer. he trusted the system to rehabilitate these people
I myself am in recovery from Heroin. Just passed 3 years this January! This touched me so much. More people need to watch this. My heart goes out to this father and family. Such a sad sad story. Thank you for sharing your daughters story. 💚💚
Thank you for sharing your story. So glad you’re clean now! You’re a beautiful soul and God Bless you❤️
Brooke was on this earth for a reason, the reason is now there is Brooke's house helping people who are addicted to drugs or alcohol. It is sad the way she died, but she had earned her wings and is watching over all what is going on. My condolences to the Brookes family may God lead you further in the right direction and give you all peace.
Absolutely! 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
AMEN!
As a recovering opiate/heroin addict, this seriously touched my heart and my soul. I have 3 years sobriety, and I'll do my best to stay clean to honor those who have lost the fight to this insidious disease.
"9 out of 10 times that person doesnt want to be out there" this is something any family needs to realize, most of the times the addict doesnt want to be a addict. but i know their struggles..
People dont realize how painful heroin withdraw is. They just compare it to a painful experience theyve had and say no big deal, youll get through it.
Its a kind of pain you cannot understand until youve been through it. Its more servere than anything youve felt, and you will do literally anything to make it stop. I wish more people understood that.
Imagine how different the world would be if everyone treated everyone else at all times with nothing but empathy 🤍🤍🤍🤍
Thanks for that feeling :) I only hope for this as well! :) ♡♡
Amen!!
💞
@Pieces of April Rose
Is "Pieces of April Rose" the name of something popular or are you, Miss April Rose, simply a very prolific commenter?
I see you EVERYWHERE!
Sorry, PAR, but thats some serious Kumbaya stuff right there. In the entire history of the world that has never happened, and it never will. Life is hard, people are hard, people are cruel, the sooner everyone accepts it the better off we will be. Dancing with the devil and shooting up hard dope just makes everything worse.
Wow..this made me cry. I'm 14 months clean now..this disease is sick. God Bless Brooke & All her family. Beautiful what her father has carried on to do and help their community. There's this Persian proverb that goes
"I died a lot
To live a little
With you"
Recovery is worth it.
Congratulations on what I am sure was a hard fought sobriety, best wishes as you continue on your journey!
That’s beautiful! I never heard that. Be well! ✌️🌸✌️🌸✌️🌸
I’m glad he realized that addiction is not a choice. It’s a disease and it doesn’t discriminate no matter who you are and no matter how good standing your family is to the community. We need more people like this man in the world. There are so many great people who are addicts and they get looked at as scum. I’m one of those people. I have an amazing family who supports me but many addicts don’t! This man is a life saver and I’d shake his hand and give him a big ole hug and thank him for understanding the life of an addict, and tell him that his daughter was an absolutely beautiful woman who although was a sick girl, she had an enormous heart and was and will always be a magnificent soul in his life. Bless you and your family and thank you so much for what you do and understanding that we’re all people, all equal whether you have the disease of addiction or not.
Initially it's a choice, and most of us have been educated on the risks. It's unfortunate.
Totally. Making NARCAN kits available for anyone is a positive thing, but it has to be SO MUCH BETTER than just that.
I didn't expect to cry during this 😢🥲
Same here
Hard not to cry watching this
Right I literally just wanted learn about gruesome crimes and now I’m crying my eyes out wanting to volunteer somewhere
Me either. He reminds me of my dad, and now I know the pain he felt during my active addiction.
As a recovering heroin addict I can promise you she didn't want to hurt you and didn't want to die. It's a daily struggle and it breaks my heart to see how it's broken you. All my condolences
Best of luck with your recovery
Praying for your strength against that BEAST. XX
Wow, what a way to honor his daughter 😢😢🙏🏽🙏🏽 Rest In Peace Brooke, may you live on through your father ❤️👼🏽
She's living on through HERSELF AND HER LOVING FATHER. An Angel, ...
You are an amazing man. Your daughter is proud❤
You can hear the pride in his voice as he speaks about what they do to support people. You sir, are amazing. And Brooke will always be with you every step of the way. She is proud of you.
It's really touching when he said "Do something......."
What an honor to his daughter Brooke’s life. I’m sure she’s watching this and is happy because she knew her daddy was a hero and could help people. This is one of the most gut wrenching stories ever and he’s an incredible man & father. 🙏
As sad as it is, his personal experience opened his eyes to the reality of a hard life, and its admirable that he could see and learn that. How humbling that he chose to do more with the result than grieve and step away. His heavy heart will create a line of empathy for others to seek help thru him. xx
Exactly! Well said! 😊🌸
Yeah, sounds like he wasn't the most ethical cop... sad it took him struggling with his daughter's addiction & to lose her for him to actually care
"The greatest challenge in life is not your imperfections, your greatest challenge is your ability to truly be honest with yourself "
It is so sad and sick that this is how he had to learn that people need help not handcuffs.
I’m so sorry for your family’s loss.
Thank you for honoring her life and being so resilient.
One of the things I always thought was weird is that people want to throw addicts into jail, then are surprised when they return to their old lives after they're released. With a felony on your record, it's going to be nearly impossible to get a job that's actually worthwhile. We want addicts to change, do better, but we cripple them further, limiting their ability to do better. It's like seeing someone drowning, so you throw them an anchor, then act surprised and disappointed when they end up fully drowning.
May be because of the crimes they commit to receive their drugs.
The anchor analogy was a good one!
Very well said and very good point.
That is such an accurate comparison. That is exactly what it's like.
Unfortunately there are consequences to committing crimes. How about don’t commit a felony or if you do, be smarter about it
@@kylereed5161 I'm not suggesting that people shouldn't have consequences for their actions, I'm suggesting that if you want to take people who are criminals due to addiction and reform them, something other than traditional prison needs to happen. If you want to cut down on criminal behavior, and the root cause is addiction, the prison system as it is does not help create healthy, functioning humans; I would imagine it further hardens and dehumanizes people who, without their addiction, would be "normal" members of society. Further, by limiting their ability to get a good job, you create conditions that make it incredibly difficult to turn one's life around.
Clearly, habitual offenders of violent crimes, and/or those who commit vile acts against others, are of a different class altogether, and I have no sympathy for them.
This really touch my heart! My Son is incarcerated for drugs use, and I was so shocked how little is done to help! The judicial system is such a mess! They push to lock people up and throw away the key! God Bless to this family and all suffering!
God bless your son.❤
What an amazing father. I’ve heard so many stories of parents just kicking their kids to the curb and regardless of his civic duty he was there for her till the end. And then made her dream came true 🥺
My condolences for your loss. I lost my brother to an overdose. He was tossed out in the street like garbage. So sad. 🥺
I’m very sorry, Claudetta🙏
Omg, that is heartbreaking 😓
I'm so sorry 💔
I’m so sorry for your loss :/ this makes me so sad to read.
So sorry for your loss! Peace, love and prayers to you and your family!
So was one of my uncles. I feel your pain. He was a veteran. No respect.
I cried so hard when she told the people that her dad would help. Brooke knew how amazing her dad is.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I know, some people you just cant save, but there are some you can!!! Thank you for what you both are doing!!!
This father is incredibly inspiring. It’s so nice to see someone being REAL & EMPATHETIC. What a heck of a dad! His daughter is over the moon excited watching him do all that for her ❤️ That’s love.
Sad that he had to lose his daughter to realize that drug addiction isn’t easy. So sorry for your loss. May her legacy carry on.❤️😭
You are a remarkable man! In one of the worst moments of your life you have turned it around to help others. RIP Brooke. I pray you receive signs from Brooke from heaven as I receive signs from my 21 year old son who passed away in 2019.
I LOVE THIS❤️
I’ve been off the streets of Philadelphia PA for 9 1/2 years! I was in and out of jail, finally court ordered to inpatient treatment! I wanted to get clean soo bad! I just didn’t know how to live with the heroin and crack! I was suffering with emotional pains & guilt. Took 4 different treatments and 9yrs later Still in therapy! I’m sane & sober! Have beautiful children, and I am worthy of happiness! And every addict is worthy! These are people suffering!
much love to you on your journey...
Congratulations on your sobriety ColieDee, continue to live your best life! 💕
This man had a beautiful heart. Unfortunately it always takes someone to know or be related to someone deep into addiction before they truely understand the disease. We needs to educated more. I hope he keeps telling Brookes story & informs others .
Absolutely heartbreaking. I’m 2 years clean from Percocet myself and seeing this father re live this experience brought back some dark memories from my own family. Drugs tear families apart.
This is a heartbreakingly BEAUTIFUL way to show the flaws in the system. Way to fight for your daughter, Dad💕
I just wanted to say, "" Thank you"" for telling Brooks' story, building the center so that people may receive counseling and job training there, as well as , offering these people hope for finding their sobriety again which in turn opens the door to a better future. Kudos!!
Thanks for sharing this with us !!💜💙💜
I can totally relate to what he saying it's impossible to get your child into treatment. Almost 4 years ago this happened to my son except they dragged his body down the he was missing for 3 days before someone found him my little boys was there for 3 days while bugs crawling all over him . The cop's said thank goodness another drug addict gone and did nothing to person or person's that did this to my only son. I miss you J
I’m so very sorry. Nobody should lose their child.
@@yellowmelancholy4875 Thank you
That's a terrible thing to say about someone who passed from an overdose..shame on them.!!! I lost my little brother and my closest friend to an OD.. we were the ones trying to help so when our loved one passes, we feel guilt over it. We shouldn't tho. I'm sorry for your loss. Your loved one wasn't just another addict.💚
@@millsmami sorry for your loss.
@@millsmami Wishing there was some sort of support group available for individual that have gone through something like this.
I literally burst out crying! This is so empowering!!! Beautiful ending to a horrible story!
“Do something”
He is right! I’m in tears
This is life’s pandemic. We need more places like this. This truly touched my heart. Condolences to Brookes family.
I was a heroin addict, first starting with percocet that was legally prescribed after major surgery. I just celebrated 6 years sober this March. This story had me in tears because I know it too well. Brooke was such a beautiful person and I am sad that she wasn't able to get the help she needed while she was alive but her dad is a huge inspiration and I am so glad that this opened his eyes that addicts are people too, broken people who need help. Addiction can affect anybody!
I've always told my daughters, "I wish you were small enough for me to be able to tuck you in my pocket to always keep you close, and safe". Children make us so vulnerable to the evils of this world. We have to trust God each and every day to keep them safe. May He give you strength, and grace to carry on. Your daughter is beautiful and she will always be her father's daughter. I am truly sorry for your loss.
From southern md ❤️🖤 sober since Feb 27th 2016
What a man what a dad.🥰💔💔💔
No one *wants* to be an addict. Addiction grabs a person by the guts and dares them to run.
Thank you so much for helping, and for helping others to see what addiction is truly like
What a bittersweet story. The pain in this man's voice when he talks about losing his daughter AND realizing his whole life was a lie is so deep. It's lovely how he made his daughter's dream come true.
All I can say is this is a beautiful tribute to Brooke, a father's love knows no end. I can see that him helping these ladies get better is healing him as well🙏🏿💜
Amazing STORY.
I was NOT expecting this to have such an impact on me, but it sure did! What a great man and what a beautiful way to honor his daughter's life!
Oh sir my heart bleeds for you and your family xx
I just watched, you brought me to tears. I can say I am a recovering addict of crack cocaine and heroin. I have 9 years clean but I slipped 2years for 6 weeks and regretted it. I dont care who you are you are never recovered we are only recovering one day at a time. I'm so glad that Brooke had great parents that saw and tried to help her in stead of shaming her. I was on the streets for 13 years and finally my last o.d. was my last. So plz for those who are comeing clean and staying clean, pls belive you are not missing a thing. I'm clean again but I did not take 8 in a half years away from being clean. I lost my husband and i turned to drugs, i gave my children to my mother wich was a mistake. I have lost so much due to my choice to use. Only 1 out of 3 of my children talk to me and grandchildren that I'm not allowed to see.plz think your life through befor you decide to choose drugs because it's not just your self that suffers with addiction in this ruthless world. God BLESS to everyone that has this battle and fight with me. to stay clean. Much love to the parents of Brooke and I'm so sorry for your lose. You have done a wonderful thing by helping and understanding. Thank You!!!!!!!
How do you get through the pain of withdrawal?
@@Scorch428 lots and lots of water & gatorade
Thank you for sharing your story 💜
I have A 3 year old and this absolutely tears my heart out, I can’t imagine losing my little Angel, She’s Daddy’s little girl.
Oh man this is a sad story , I’m crying like a baby I couldn’t think of the ending so sad, great job Dad! And I’m sorry for your loss!
This really touched my heart. What a amazing person Brooke was knowing that deep down u would understand and help she knew her Dad's heart. And you kept your promise and are helping so many ppl it's so touching and amazing. Thank you for saving lives 🙏
I remember first hearing her story and hearing him tell it and I thought "another case of 'I only care because it affects me'" and I kinda still feel this way. Why is it people are only passionate about things when they have personally been touched by it?
Have you never held a position on anything in life, only to have someone educate you to facts that changed your thinking? As we go through life we continue to grow and educate ourselves, or at least we should, as that is one big component to gaining compassion and empathy.
I grew up in the 70's & 80's and I know that the research and understanding of how addiction works, is light years ahead of where it was back in the day.
When we know better, we do better!
That’s human nature, if you’ve never experienced something it’s very hard to empathize. There are so many problems in the world imagine if we took all of them on emotionally. We wouldn’t survive a week.
It's human nature! Do you care about every issue in the world?
God, or the universe only can teach a lesson to some by making them experience things in life that they can not comprehend without direct contact within their lives, to show how it personally feels, and changes people. Some have to learn empathy, even when they are very capable of empathy in other situations, they aren’t capable of understanding without losing their ignorance towards what one is brainwashed with learning something is about.
@@dellahicks7231 YO. Well put
“Helping” starts with compassion and he had a lot of it.❤️
Very touching story of pain and accomplishment. What a great human being and selfless
As a recovering addict, this cut deep. The pain I've caused my family is immeasurable...This father's love is beautiful. ❤️
Treat addiction like a medical condition. My condolences for such a profound loss of your daughter.
Tears are pouring down as I write this; what a wonderful, loving & compassionate family!! God bless you for this AMAZING GOOD thing you have started... Saving lives & giving us a chance. Thank you from all of my 💜!!
I am a recovering heroin addict and this year July 25 will make 10 years I have been clean. I have overdosed three times and I really shouldn’t be here today but by the grace of God go I. I have seen many videos about addiction, but this one has touched my heart more than any one I have ever seen. People just remember that addiction is never a choice and every addict is somebody’s somebody. Their lives are not a waste and will never ever be in vain. May Brooke rest in Paradise ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️🌈🌈🌈🌈🌈
This gave me chills through my tears. Heartbreaking. I am so grateful to this fine man for sharing this story. I love this man for speaking the truth. May every American hear it.
Such a beautiful way to honor your daughter! And to be there on the front lines for someone else's daughter...
The love he has for his daughter is amazing! Very touching story
What great parents,I went to my mother and I told her I was a addict and I was kicked out and my family never spoke to me again,now 20 yes later I have 3 beautiful kids and I'm clean,my life didnt change overnight and it wasn't always easy but I done it and I have 3 kids that have grown into amazing adults,my daughter is in uni learning to be a a midwife,my son just joined the armed forces and my other son is a labourer I'm so proud of them and of myself alone I turned my life around but my heart will always hurt that my own mother found it so easy to turn me out of her life,rip Brook
I don’t know how you turned your life around without love and compassion. My husband and mom love me so much I had to get better for them. I would never do it for myself. Tough love wouldn’t work for me.
@@ana-bananainca790 I'm so glad I had the strength to pull myself out of it,lucky I done it in spite,I think I got by with just wanting to prove my family wrong that not once a junkie always a junkie,because some of us come out the other side,it still hurts me though and I really wish it didnt,
Brooke was definitely a soul who’s light shined so bright, and she still does and always will!! God Bless!!😇💜
I commend Mr. Simmers for all of his hard work. All four of my siblings and some of their children have been on drugs. I loss two sisters from overdoses. It's so hard. I love all them dearly and have done all I can to help them, but just couldn't. Now, I won't even let them know where I live and won't go around them. I wish them well.
I hate that for you Padussia, that you cannot be around family because of what addiction has done to your loved ones. You did what you could, please give yourself some grace.
Live your best life, gentle hugs. 💕
What a Tragic Loss of Life. I Think every Parent, Can Somehow Relate to This Story. Its Incredibly Great, That They Can Help Other People in Need.
wow i wasn’t expecting to cry this morning
Thankyou so much. May your words be heard and heeded all over the world.
Its such a shame that some people have to face tragedy in order to change or open up to help
He _thought_ he was doing the right thing, at least.
There was no malice in it, only ignorance.
So what do you do to help?
When we know better, we do better. If that is you in your profile photo, I am quite sure I am older than you, I lived through the 'Just Say No' philosophy to drugs in the 80's. Research into addiction was light years behind where it was back in the day. As the medical profession has come to understand addiction, so has law enforcement.
Omg was in tears watching that.something definitely needs to be done everywhere in the world.people need to start caring more for each other and helping those less fortunate.sending love and prayers your way🙏❤❤
God Bless this man and family . My heart goes out to you all.
Thank you for your testimony, your honesty, your strength and service and your love. God bless
I wish A&E posted a link to brookes house so people could easily see it and donate!
I'm so sorry for your loss.
THANK YOU FOR SPEAKING IN HONOR OF YOUR DAUGHTER. I WISH THERE WERE MORE LIKE YOU.
I’m so sorry you lost your baby girl. My heart mourns for you
Amen to this father I just love him
OMG... I HEARD YOU SIR! This call is one of the most awakening message and réalisation of the reality of actual need, what you have done for Beautiful Brooke and still doing in the name of Brooke’s ars. God bless you and your wife, and as for Brooke I am so sure that she is looking over you and be soo proud of what you are doing for her and others with addictions.
you know what the sad part is?? the situation hasn't changed a bit when it comes to addiction/ mental health treatment.
I lost my brother in January to addiction. It's truly heart breaking
I’m speechless what an amazing job you are doing.
Brooke's Life had Purpose, Thanks Dad !!
RIP Beautiful Lady ❤⚘🎈
She's Safe and Warm in the Arms of Jesus Christ ❤❤❤