Help Me Rebuild My Life and Return to Sobriety

Help Me Rebuild My Life and Return to Sobriety

Hello, my name is Shaphan Tackett, and I’m humbly reaching out to ask for your help during one of the most critical moments of my life.

When I was just six years old, my world changed forever. I endured six years of brutal physical abuse at the hands of my older brother, who was just 14 when his addiction to hard drugs began. We were raised by our elderly grandparents after our mother proved unable to care for us, but even their love and guidance couldn’t shield me from the violence and fear that became my daily reality.

The abuse ranged from verbal threats to being pistol-whipped and even having shots fired. It finally came to a breaking point between the summers of 1998 and 1999. Terrified for our lives, my loving grandmother made the brave decision to secretly move us two hours away, starting over in a small two-bedroom apartment where my brother couldn’t find us.

Tragically, in July of 2000, my grandfather found my brother deceased from a drug overdose. Although it brought an end to the immediate danger, the damage had already been done. Our family, once close-knit and loving, was left shattered.

Since that time, I have struggled with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and my own battle with substance use — a battle that began when I was just 12 years old. I fought hard to reclaim my life and, at one point, achieved three years of sobriety while living in Los Angeles.

However, in January 2025, I returned home to Northern Kentucky to live with my sister, and sadly, I relapsed soon after. Just last week, I experienced an overdose.

I cannot begin to describe the love, patience, and forgiveness my sister has shown me. She has stood by me when I least deserved it, and I am beyond grateful for her strength and compassion. But I do not want to continue being a burden to her — she has already given so much.

That’s why I’m turning to you.

I am raising funds to cover a few months of basic living expenses like hotel stays, food, and transportation while I work to stabilize my life and return to Los Angeles — where I found true healing before.

Unfortunately, during my relapse, I lost my driver’s license and am now waiting for replacement documents (birth certificate and social security card), which will take time to arrive. Until then, I have no formal ID and limited options for housing or employment. My hotel checkout is tomorrow morning, and without your help, I will have nowhere safe to go.

I am humbly and respectfully asking for any assistance you can offer. Every dollar, every share, and every act of kindness means more than I can ever express. Even if you cannot donate, sharing this campaign could make all the difference.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing that hope and healing are still possible for me.

— Shaphan