In the bustling world of real estate and photography, AJ is a name that stands out not just for his professional achievements but for his profound personal transformation. His journey from addiction and struggle to sobriety and success is a testament to the power of resilience and the principles of sober living. Here’s how AJ turned his life around and became the founder of Vertical House, a sanctuary for those seeking recovery and renewal.
A Rollercoaster of Struggles and Success
AJ’s story begins in high school, where what started as casual marijuana use and weekend drinking quickly spiraled into a serious addiction. Dropping out of high school to pursue a GED seemed like a setback, but AJ’s determination shone through as he excelled in junior college, achieving a 4.0 GPA and transferring to Texas State University in San Marcos, TX.
College life brought new challenges as AJ’s relationship with alcohol deepened. What began as a social activity became a central part of his life, negatively impacting his academic performance. Despite these struggles, AJ leveraged his passion for photography to start a successful wedding photography business—a venture that continues to thrive.
The Impact of Alcohol and a Life-Changing Diagnosis
Even as AJ’s business flourished, his drinking continued unabated. The downward spiral reached a critical point when, in 2015, he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes—a direct consequence of his excessive alcohol consumption. The diagnosis was a wake-up call, but it took AJ another two years of battling both diabetes and alcoholism before he sought help.
In 2017, after a pivotal moment at JFK Airport in NYC, AJ took his last drink and began his journey toward sobriety. His path to recovery included attending Alcoholics Anonymous, where he embraced the program’s principles and discovered a new purpose.
Embracing the Principles of Sober Living
The principles of sober living are integral to AJ’s story. AA emphasizes a structured approach to recovery, including acknowledging a higher power, making amends, and continuously working on personal growth. AJ’s commitment to these principles laid the foundation for his transformation. His dedication to sobriety not only improved his health but also allowed him to explore new passions and opportunities.
A New Chapter: Real Estate and the Vision for Vertical House
In his 30s, AJ discovered a newfound interest in real estate. This career shift proved to be both successful and fulfilling. By 2019, AJ and his wife Kim began to discuss the dream of opening a sober living home in Austin—a vision that was inspired by their own experiences and AJ’s commitment to helping others.
However, the road was not always smooth. While navigating the challenges of a commission-based career in commercial real estate, AJ encountered a new obstacle: kratom. Initially used to boost energy, kratom developed into a physical dependency. Recognizing the danger, AJ checked himself into treatment and reaffirmed his dedication to AA principles.
Founding Vertical House: A Safe Haven for Recovery
With his renewed commitment to sobriety and a clear vision, AJ launched Vertical House, a sober living home designed to provide support, structure, and a safe environment for those in recovery. Vertical House embodies the principles of sober living, offering individuals a space where they can focus on their recovery and rebuild their lives with the help of a supportive community.
The Power of Resilience and Redemption
AJ’s journey from addiction to entrepreneurship underscores the transformative power of resilience and the principles of sober living. By embracing the AA program and pursuing his passion for real estate and sober living, AJ has not only changed his own life but has created a supportive environment for others on their path to recovery.
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, remember that recovery is possible. AJ’s story serves as a powerful reminder that with determination, support, and the right resources, a brighter future is within reach.
For more information about Vertical House and the principles of sober living, contact them directly to learn how you can support or get involved in the recovery community.