Laron Mason

When I think about what kept me going through my recovery journey, one word comes to mind: family. Not just the people I’m related to by blood, but the people who stood by me when I couldn’t stand on my own. For a long time, I let alcohol pull me away from those connections, but today, I’m proud to say I’m back — sober, focused, and more grateful than ever.
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Getting to that point wasn’t easy. I tried before, but I wasn’t ready. After my child’s mother and I broke up, things spiraled. I was working at UCLA, raising my baby, and mourning the loss of my father — all at once. Drinking became my way of coping. When I got a DUI, it felt like my world was crashing down. That’s when I first tried treatment — but I wasn’t ready to admit I had a problem. I checked in, but when I saw people using meth in my room, I walked right out the door.

I told myself I could handle things on my own. But I couldn’t.

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The blackouts, the regrets — they kept piling up. I knew I couldn’t keep living that way. I didn’t want to keep missing moments with my daughter or walking around feeling numb. I wanted to be better — for myself and for my family. Finally, my lawyer suggested treatment again – which led me towards the Grandview Foundation.

Grief had played a huge role in my addiction. Losing my dad broke me. Growing up, I believed men weren’t supposed to cry — you just push through. But that mindset nearly destroyed me. Through recovery, I’ve learned it’s okay to grieve. It’s okay to talk about your feelings, write things down, and trust someone enough to share what’s on your heart. It’s okay to cry.

Today, I focus on being present — really showing up for my daughter. I want her to see her dad as someone she can count on. Someone she knows loves her fully and unconditionally. My relationship with her mother is better now too. We’re not together, but we’re partners in raising our daughter. I have a lot of respect for her, and I know that putting our daughter first is what matters most.

Recovery has also given me the strength to focus on my goals. I’ve always been competitive, and now I channel that energy into building a better life. I’m working toward finishing my business degree, and I’m eager to dive into the buy-and-sell business. I want to build something real — something I can be proud of. One thing I’ve learned is that success isn’t about rushing; it’s about starting what you know you can finish.

Next month, I will be moving into a family-focused recovery home, and it’s exactly where I need to be. Being surrounded by people who are committed to doing better keeps me grounded. Kids are always watching — they see what we do more than what we say. Knowing that keeps me focused on doing the right thing every day.

For anyone struggling, I’d say this: Do what you need to do, not just what you want to do. Ask for help when you need it. Don’t let fear hold you back. And most importantly, be a light — not just for yourself, but for the people around you.
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Today, I’m all about action. Words are good, but actions are what really count. I’m grateful for my family — for the second chance to show up, be present, and build a future I’m proud of. That’s what keeps me going, one day at a time.

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