The " Rock Bottom " theory doesn't hold water. When you give birth to your lovely baby, never do you imagine that one day, this could be you. These guys seem to be wonderful parents.
I'm a retired mental health therapist. For years, I've been tired of hearing how homeless, mentally ill people "fall throught the cracks" of the ental health system. Well, this is what falling through the cracks looks like. The laws are written so that mentally ill people can't bee forced into care unless they meet very dire criteria, and most homeless people don't meet those criteria. It's the system we're stuck with. Believe me, no one would love to impose treatment on these people more than mental health workers. Even so, once their medication stabilizes them they are discharged from the hospital and released into the community. The first thing they do is stop taking their medication. I wish these parents the very best. 💐
Addiction is crazy. Ive been in and out of it for two decades. Finally got sober with the help of some medication. Working on getting a job. Staying grateful and going one step at a time.
Wow. That was a truly honest, inspiring, loving interview of Alex’s parents. I am so glad I came across this as my family is going through something very similar. It is heart wrenching and soul sucking to live with this happening to your loved one. I admire everything they do to help someway. There are no easy answers. I pray for Alex and your family. Peace in 2025
My heart breaks for these parents. I have walked this exact road until my son eventually committed suicide at the age of 21. It is an emotional roller coaster and usually never has a happy ending. Praying for them.
I heard many of these stories when I was a regular Alanon attendee. (I moved and there are no meetings here). I do recommend Alanon to parents, children and associates of alcoholics and addicts. The program helped me to find strength and understanding.
Glen and Allison, I have so much respect for you. Thank you Glen for affirming your wife for being a good mother. I can sense your love for your son. My husband and I have gone through painful events with our son also. He is estranged from us right now. I went through guilt and shame but we believe in God and I have had to put my son down at the foot of Jesus and I’m trusting God to bring about reconciliation. I’m praying for healing for your son. There is hope with God.
Hugs and prayers, never give up, do what you feel is right, live your life too! PAL is an organization that is for parents of addicted loved ones. They have online meetings and in person meetings I many or most states.
i have a cousin who lives in the woods outside of portland. he has done so for years. he was raised in a loving, well to do family, no abuse or neglect. his father occasionally drives up from california and finds him…takes care of him, feeds and provides for him and even got him to drive back to california with him for awhile. he eventually returned to the woods though. my heart goes out to this couple.
Yes this is the other side of homelessness. So many channels focus on homeless people in a one dimensional fashion, focusing on the failures of the government as not doing enough to solve this problem. Listening to families and parents sheds light on the complexity of homelessness. Some people trapped in this way of life refuse help.
They seem like good people. I’m glad they are speaking out. Many many parents are going through this right now but most refuse to talk about it. I believe that the more people communicate about it, the sooner we can help them.💞
Absolutely - reminding people that these are people. One person at a time. It’s too great to think about solving or helping everyone but together we can help one person. And then the next person. My heart breaks for these parents but I’m so proud that they have introduced us to Alex. Alex deserves our care. One at a time a change can be made. Never give up.
Praying for you and your son. My friends' son is in the same situation as your son. He is homeless, suffering from bipolar and using street drugs to cope. He will not accept anyone's help. It's devastating to them and him. Prayers that you can continue to hang in there and search avenues to help him.
wow what great parents . Give your self some grace it sounds like you all have checked all of the boxes and there is only so much you can do. I can't imagine what you are going through my heart goes out to both of you .
I feel for you. Please try to be kind to yourself. ❤❤ I went through the same thing with my son. Thank goodness we did an intervention and he agreed and was sent in a 1 yr rehab in Prescott AZ. It’s been ten years and he is drug free however he has switched to alcohol. I wish you peace and strength. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Schizophrenia often manifests in a person’s mid-twenties and there are no indications or warnings prior to then. It’s also very genetic and has less to do with environmental factors the way other mental illness does. Schizophrenia and drug use are often two sides of the same coin. People try to cope with symptoms from the disease by using and then the effects from the drugs exacerbate symptoms like paranoia. It creates a feedback loop. It’s complicated and medication is really the only treatment for it. I hope these parents can get the help they need. It’s very hard to have a family member with schizophrenia. The book Agnes’s Jacket is a great book that looks at severe mental illness with compassion and curiosity.
I have a niece whose son has schizophrenia. She is a single parent so she doesn't have much support . My heart goes out to you guys. What a compassionate nice interviewer
A few years ago my stepson came to visit and he went into the bathroom but he didn’t come back out. I grew concerned and when I knocked to make sure he was okay, no answer. I broke in and we found him laying on the floor. He had turned purple and wasn’t breathing right. I didn’t even have Narcan so I did CPR until the ambulance got here. They had to Narcan him 3 times in order to bring him back. It’s extremely terrifying. We All need to keep a close eye on our children. Education is Key.
@@seattlestories Thank you! Yes it was terrifying and then he came right back home and shot dope again. I was up all night trying to keep him alive. He hasn’t stopped yet but I hope he will one day soon. Your interviews are Awesome!!
Respectfully, I question if it’s really a good thing to keep an human on this earth when they are suffering and in pain and want out …a friend of mine years ago 36 year old son told his mom he couldn’t deal with fighting addiction anymore, he was done with rehab .. he committed suicide…. he told his mom he was done, it was hard but she knew he was leaving I remember her saying “he’s at peace now I hope, I don’t have to see him suffer….”
What beautiful parents this Mom and Dad are! I hope Alex gets the strength to find treatment someday! Bless all the people and parents that have the struggle of Mental health and addictions! The drugs out there are terrible and so hard for people to get off!
Strong testimony. I keep narcan at my house. It’s an incredibly stressful event to have to use it on someone. Thank you for sharing your experience. I think the system has failed many families.
Oh what a story! Thank you both for being so honest with it. You are so sincere in your search for contact with your son. I love Glen's little laugh at the absurdities you of life. Here's to your Alex making his way home to you both. Much much love xx
These parents did NOTHING wrong. No one can control the life of another. It's clear to me the son's problem started with the painful break up with a gf. It's unfortunate that drugs are effective at numbing pain, and become progressive in their destruction. Still lots of ppl decide to seek help on their own when their life has gotten so miserable they are willing to put down the drugs. Didn't cause it, can't control or cure it. Prayers!❤
The story that they’re telling about their son sounds just like my grandson. This is meth psychosis. The paranoia, the homelessness, wandering around, delusions and even attacks of destruction and violence. They minimize the amount of drugs they take and pretend that they’re normal and just fine. My daughter has gone through hell with my grandson. He started with alcohol and over-the-counter pills at 14. He went to rehab and lived in a special rehab for teens for one year. He got out came back home and went to high school. It wasn’t long before he relapsed and begin doing harder drugs, and that led to meth. It’s been a nightmare. He’s been in jail and in rehab a few times, but always leaves after about four or five days. He’s 32 now and my daughter has banished him from her house. For many years, she tried to help him, and fix the situation, but to no avail. He has to make the decision to recover, no one can do it for him.
I can relate to their story my son stayed on Myrtle Beach for around a year and a half homeless I'd go pick him up bring him to my house he was sober up I'd help him through his withdrawal he turn around be ready to go back at it so I found that running to him wasn't really helping him when I did the tough love thing he came around he went to a rehab in Florida and was there for 6 months he got clean and thank God he's clean and sober today and has been for almost 2 years so I know how it is to not have fun I know how it is not to have a night that you stay asleep I used to feel bad because I would eat a meal and I would think oh my God you know I'm eating this hot meal and he's out there in the cold but thank you so much for posting this kind of interview I think more of these should be done so parents feel like they're not alone thank you again for sharing have a blessed day
That is fine for drug addicts, but isn't wise for schizophrenics. They need love, and you must find them to give it to them. My husband always responded to love.
He needs to hit rock bottom. And he will ! Eventually he will realize that not everyone has such wonderful and caring parents ! I feel so bad for them. I wish I had such nice parents. Not everyone does !! I’ll be praying for them ! ❤️🙏💯
I know what they are going through. I haven't seen my son or talked to him for more than 2 years. I am homeless and don't behave transportation so I don't have an opportunity to go to Seattle to find my son. Police I think get mad if you report your family member missing. My heart is breaking everyday and I just want to see him and hear his voice. If I could have one wish it would be to have the funds to stay in Seattle longe enough to find him. I will pray from the parents on this video and I pray for all of the people on the street who need help and hope for a Chance to see my boy again . Thank you for this video . I feel a little less alone.
I am very sorry for these people. I see the encampments all around Seattle. I know they are growing in other major cities as well. I feel hopeless as I don't see a solution. This couple has TRIED! Obviously, they love their son. And yet, there aren't many choices or options for them or Alex. How will we get through this housing/drug/mental illness crisis? I'm "frustrated in Seattle." These lives are not throw away! These people are important!
Thank you so much for sharing. My heart aches for the hurt you have experienced trying to help him. Bless you for maintaining your unconditional parental love that we all have for our children. It must be so difficult for you both. 🙏🙏Sending you both prayers.
Thanks for posting this. I'm so glad I came across it. I've always thought having a child living on the street would just be the end of the world. Seeing this couple dealing with it the best they can over the years has helped me to see that we parents simply cannot expect or be expected to control where life takes our adult children. If handing him a meal from McDonald's through their car window eases their conscience I guess it's worth it, but in reality it doesn't make any difference to their son one way or the other. They seem to have a loving, supporting relationship with each other, though, and that's wonderful to see.
My heart goes out to these parents, my son will be 48 in June 2024 and this is the story of his life. Though his problems started at 6 years old and just continue to progress and no matter what I tried to do for him it would never last more than an hour or two or a day or two. It's hard to keep your chin up. But nonetheless I love him and I just have to let him live the life he wants and be glad when he calls me and we laugh and talk a minute sometimes and say we love each other in spite of it all. The heartbreak is so real. But God is good and even if I don't understand it all I know he does and I know he watches my boy even when he's wrong. Ps my son loses everything as well he just wants to be free and out on the streets to roam as he sees fit. Truly unbelievable. You as parents cannot blame yourself but it is sad for sure. Its been 42 yrs.
Schizophrenia is one of the worst mental illness to have. Medicine helps, but they have to constantly tweak it and change it and be willing to do that. Big ❤
I hope other parents can learn from this. Kids need unconditional love and support, not judgement and accusations. If the parents aren't the one source of safety from the harshness of the world, they will lose hope and spirit.
What is it that other parents should learn? What more would you have these to do? Do you think they didn't try their best? Speaking from experience, a child growing up with unconditional love and support is not protected against mental illness and drug use. Did you notice their humility in saying that they used to believe that a child in their neighborhood must have had bad parents? Please consider that even if parents are a source of safety, like these are, the child may be too sick to keep their hope. Good parents who try their best are better than the alternative, but we don't have systems in place in our society to effectively care for mental illness.
My husband had intermittent mental illness until into his early thirties. It came home to stay and that was the schizophrenia. I had to call police on him a few times, one of which he walked away with two young fit officers hanging off his arms, carried them like they weighed nothing. He wasnt on drugs, i had been with him all day long and the night before. You just cant predict what is going to happen with schozophrenics. Hubby was manic depressive/schozophrenic with other problems too. God sorts them out and meds are far better than we knew about when my husbands journey started. God bless you for not giving up!
You are beautiful people, and I will be praying daily for Alex and both of you ❤❤❤ I live in Bellingham, and I will keep an eye out for him if you would like. I donate a bags of dog food to homeless . You both are giving it your all and that's pure unconditional love that is priceless ❤❤❤ Hang in there. Your story is heartbreaking but inspiring too ❤️ 💙 🧡🩵
This vlog is hard to watch. God please keep these parents safe while they are looking for their son, and I ask you keep the son safe. I pray for this family for all to be saved and have a relationship with Jesus, it seems He is the only one that can help doctors couldn't, rehabilitation couldn't , but God can. God show them when enough is enough and give them the strength to do what is best for all . Sending love to these parents
I tried searching for the posting about Alex on Facebook but was unable to find it. I live in Lake City and have seen a younger man walking around with a moving blanket wrapped over his shoulders; I’ve also seen him at/near the Shoreline McDonald’s on 145th/Bothell Way. Wondering if it is him. If there is a way for me to see what he looks like from a photo/get a link to posting then I’d be glad to notify you next time I spot him (if this is your son). Description seems to match - he’s usually walking solo. Sending love to you both ❤
By contrast, I spent some months homeless in Seattle after 9-11. Couldn't find work (I'm a carpenter), lost my apartment and I was living in my van. At least I had shelter and mobility., so I was better off than most. Got rousted by the cops wherever I went, despite my trying to keep a low profile. Did my parents care? Not a whit. They refused to help me at all, called it "tough love". Worst time of my life. At least this kid had parents who gave a shit. And I am not a drug addict nor am I mentally ill, but I was treated like shit for being out of work. Nobody had work after 9-11, it was such a a shock to the economy. People just assumed I was a low life. Brutal. But I plugged away, finding small projects, doing yard work, house sitting (which was a godsend), and other odd jobs. Eventually I was able to save up enough to get my own place, but it was a long haul.Did I thank my parents for their wisdom? Hell no.
Yes early use of marijuana can bring on schizophrenia in males around 21-22. Very very difficult. I feel for the parents. I have dealt with this sorta thing and situation in my own family. Some of the same issues minus the hard substances. My loved one called the sheriff on himself and we had to call several times and also have an eviction. That seemed to help our kid. But it is truly heartbreaking 💔!!!😢😢
Yes, ppl don’t realize that there is a serious connection between marijuana use and the onset of schizophrenia. Especially since there is higher concentration ofTHC in today’s weed, I’d seriously counsel kids about the drug being “safe”.
Thinking of setting up a Zoom meeting for parents interested in talking about our situations. Maybe we could become allies to make a difference in Seattle. Let me know by posting here
So hard.He needs mental health assistance and with schizophrenia he is unable to make proper choices.Then if he's not going to kill himself or someone else at the moment they can't keep him.To expect him to make clear decisions is mostly impossible. No commonsense with mental health.You have been there done so much.Family member was homeless and mentally ill.Got into minor altercation with police and was given choice for jail or state hospital.He was put in medication and now lives by himself , pays his bills.It was a God intervention.
How heartbreaking for you. You are such wonderful parents. Please don’t blame yourself for his condition. You are very loving. Please go to support groups. How is your daughter doing? How old is she and how has her brother affected her. I hope with all🎉 my heart that you find joy in life, you sure are a loving couple and so glad you have each other, through this horrible time in your life. I do not know you, but Wish I could hug you both and tell you not to blame yourself ever. Would love to keep in touch, do you have a email or face book account? Please let me know.
At what point is appropriate to give up for self preservation? Although you can always have hope, I believe at a certain point you need to let go and move on. Is this wrong?
@GlennSMac My prayers go out to you. I grew up with a brother who was addicted to heroin. It took two stints in prison and almost a 3rd for his rock bottom. Thankfully, he did not also have mental illness.
I think people feel like its their fault...or that people will judge them...which many do...ive even been guilty of that....my screwed up ego....because i was not a saint....PEER PRESSURE is the damn evil entity!!..God bless you for being open and honest.you can help others so much!!!
To me this so called addiction is different with mental illness person vs others who are addicts for the euphoria reasons. Schizophrenia usually exhibits in the early 20's with the paranoia & voices. They find drugs or alcohol as a way to deal with the disease. As opposed to addicts who start with recreational drugs & go on to harder drug chasing that high. Like someone mentioned there is no law to keep mentally ill patients in treatment. They won't stay on meds without supervision.
God bless you in your efforts for your son. It’s up to him, and may come down, eventually to involuntary help, because of his Schitzoid disorder. They never want take meds, usually and refuse everything. Just remember, it has nothing to do with you or anything , just him. Pray through Christ Jesus for help you cope and be at Peace , in Him. Amen.
prayng for your son's healng and salvation in Jesus name, my fam had also been affected but saved with miracle w/ Jesus... hope those voices leave by the power of the Cross . and play worship hymns and classics like Canon D
I am sorry...it is a crazy tunnel of blackness to try and help an addict...especially one that doesn't want help...you need to NOW look after your own mental health so that you are in a healthy headspace to help him when he's ready...stop wasting your energy on going nowhere. Stop running after a rabbit you'll never catch...stay healthy for when he's ready.
Recently the "thought" seems to be that those who were raised "soft" , soft men make hard times. Hard times make hard men. Something like that anyway, lol. Sorry I can't remember it well. My memory is going.
@@GlennSMac! Hubby first was diagnosed as drug seeking, then as schizophrenic, them manic depressive schizophrenic. Then add on personality disorders, then multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, diabetes. Wondering if the multiple sclerosis didn't cause the rest. He died at 62. At home.
@@annsaunders5768 ((Hugs)). I’m sorry bout your husband. That’s a horrible combination of circumstances. My dad passed at 60. Just alcoholism. The closer I get to that age, the more I wonder if I end up like him. I tell myself and others….he died of a broken heart 💔
Can they not get Medical power over him since he isn't able to make good decisions and have him committed maybe?? especially since he has a mental issue
The " Rock Bottom " theory doesn't hold water. When you give birth to your lovely baby, never do you imagine that one day, this could be you. These guys seem to be wonderful parents.
Thank you❤️
@cathtf7957 I agree with you. I am surprised people are still giving this advice. It very, very, very rarely works. It is really old school.
I hate the AA philosophy!!
@@13FallenAngelait’s just not relevant in all situations.
This video hits home more than you know. Thank you for posting this. My heart is with these parents. We totally understand. Our hearts break everyday.
Glad there are others who understand❤️
I'm a retired mental health therapist. For years, I've been tired of hearing how homeless, mentally ill people "fall throught the cracks" of the ental health system. Well, this is what falling through the cracks looks like. The laws are written so that mentally ill people can't bee forced into care unless they meet very dire criteria, and most homeless people don't meet those criteria. It's the system we're stuck with. Believe me, no one would love to impose treatment on these people more than mental health workers. Even so, once their medication stabilizes them they are discharged from the hospital and released into the community. The first thing they do is stop taking their medication. I wish these parents the very best. 💐
Agreed!
Addiction is crazy. Ive been in and out of it for two decades. Finally got sober with the help of some medication. Working on getting a job. Staying grateful and going one step at a time.
Which medication?
Dear God, love and protect this precious family, keep them from the evil agenda of drugs. Save their son and restore health and happiness! ❤️🙏🙏🙏❤️
Thank you😇❤️
Wow. That was a truly honest, inspiring, loving interview of Alex’s parents. I am so glad I came across this as my family is going through something very similar. It is heart wrenching and soul sucking to live with this happening to your loved one. I admire everything they do to help someway. There are no easy answers. I pray for Alex and your family. Peace in 2025
My heart breaks for these parents. I have walked this exact road until my son eventually committed suicide at the age of 21. It is an emotional roller coaster and usually never has a happy ending. Praying for them.
So sorry about your son. Thank you for your prayers.
I’m truly sorry. I’m praying for you and your mother’s heart. Only Jesus can heal our wounds.
I heard many of these stories when I was a regular Alanon attendee. (I moved and there are no meetings here). I do recommend Alanon to parents, children and associates of alcoholics and addicts. The program helped me to find strength and understanding.
Glen and Allison, I have so much respect for you. Thank you Glen for affirming your wife for being a good mother. I can sense your love for your son. My husband and I have gone through painful events with our son also. He is estranged from us right now. I went through guilt and shame but we believe in God and I have had to put my son down at the foot of Jesus and I’m trusting God to bring about reconciliation. I’m praying for healing for your son. There is hope with God.
Thank you for sharing❤️❤️
Hugs and prayers, never give up, do what you feel is right, live your life too! PAL is an organization that is for parents of addicted loved ones. They have online meetings and in person meetings I many or most states.
My heart breaks for these parents. 💔😢
Thank you!❤️
@@GlennSMac Praying for you and your son. 🙏🏼
i have a cousin who lives in the woods outside of portland. he has done so for years. he was raised in a loving, well to do family, no abuse or neglect. his father occasionally drives up from california and finds him…takes care of him, feeds and provides for him and even got him to drive back to california with him for awhile. he eventually returned to the woods though.
my heart goes out to this couple.
Yes this is the other side of homelessness. So many channels focus on homeless people in a one dimensional fashion, focusing on the failures of the government as not doing enough to solve this problem. Listening to families and parents sheds light on the complexity of homelessness. Some people trapped in this way of life refuse help.
Yes, tough situation. I appreciate your input that there are others in same situation ❤️
sounds like he worked out his own treatment like you have to in the USA
It’s important that your child knows you love him unconditionally
Heart goes out to Glen, Allison and their son.
They seem like good people. I’m glad they are speaking out. Many many parents are going through this right now but most refuse to talk about it. I believe that the more people communicate about it, the sooner we can help them.💞
Thank you for your post.
Absolutely - reminding people that these are people. One person at a time. It’s too great to think about solving or helping everyone but together we can help one person. And then the next person. My heart breaks for these parents but I’m so proud that they have introduced us to Alex. Alex deserves our care. One at a time a change can be made. Never give up.
Their new normal is so heartbreaking… God bless them and their son
Thank you❤️
Praying for you and your son. My friends' son is in the same situation as your son. He is homeless, suffering from bipolar and using street drugs to cope. He will not accept anyone's help. It's devastating to them and him. Prayers that you can continue to hang in there and search avenues to help him.
Thank you so much❤️❤️
wow what great parents . Give your self some grace it sounds like you all have checked all of the boxes and there is only so much you can do.
I can't imagine what you are going through my heart goes out to both of you .
Can’t help but keep trying. It’s burning us up inside and this helps alot❤️
These parents are so decent and inspiring. I so appreciate their strong hearts and getting to meet them thro this interview. Thanks to all… with ❤️
Thanks❤️
I feel for you. Please try to be kind to yourself. ❤❤
I went through the same thing with my son. Thank goodness we did an intervention and he agreed and was sent in a 1 yr rehab in Prescott AZ.
It’s been ten years and he is drug free however he has switched to alcohol.
I wish you peace and strength. 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Can relate. This addiction stuff is terrible!
Wonderful parents doing everything they can.
Thank you❤️
Schizophrenia often manifests in a person’s mid-twenties and there are no indications or warnings prior to then. It’s also very genetic and has less to do with environmental factors the way other mental illness does. Schizophrenia and drug use are often two sides of the same coin. People try to cope with symptoms from the disease by using and then the effects from the drugs exacerbate symptoms like paranoia. It creates a feedback loop. It’s complicated and medication is really the only treatment for it. I hope these parents can get the help they need. It’s very hard to have a family member with schizophrenia. The book Agnes’s Jacket is a great book that looks at severe mental illness with compassion and curiosity.
Thanks for watching and your thoughts. It's a rough disease indeed, incredibly complex.
Good points of information. We experienced the drug induced person more than the schizophrenia it self!
I have a niece whose son has schizophrenia. She is a single parent so she doesn't have much support . My heart goes out to you guys. What a compassionate nice interviewer
its not complicated; its easily cured with B3 Niacin non flush variety, very large doses are required...dr abram hoffer MD
You folks are warriors. Standing by your son all these years is more than commendable. I wish for God to stand by all three of you each and every day.
I’m so sorry that she feels regret…they did nothing wrong. Drugs are relentless enemies.
It’s hard to manage these feelings and wonder if I would of….
A few years ago my stepson came to visit and he went into the bathroom but he didn’t come back out. I grew concerned and when I knocked to make sure he was okay, no answer. I broke in and we found him laying on the floor. He had turned purple and wasn’t breathing right. I didn’t even have Narcan so I did CPR until the ambulance got here. They had to Narcan him 3 times in order to bring him back. It’s extremely terrifying. We All need to keep a close eye on our children. Education is Key.
Thanks for sharing, that sounds terrifying. Really glad he made it and you were there.
@@seattlestories Thank you! Yes it was terrifying and then he came right back home and shot dope again. I was up all night trying to keep him alive. He hasn’t stopped yet but I hope he will one day soon. Your interviews are Awesome!!
That sounds like a very difficult situation. I appreciate your share.
@@AllisonD24 Thank you Allison!💞. It took me a long time to be able to share. It really was bad.
Respectfully, I question if it’s really a good thing to keep an human on this earth when they are suffering and in pain and want out …a friend of mine years ago 36 year old son told his mom he couldn’t deal with fighting addiction anymore, he was done with rehab .. he committed suicide…. he told his mom he was done, it was hard but she knew he was leaving
I remember her saying “he’s at peace now I hope, I don’t have to see him suffer….”
This is heartbreaking I am just absolutely amazed at what parents y'all are. 😢❤
Thank you❤️
K jo@@GlennSMac
What a hard path you and you’re family are travelling, as are so many many parents, sending love 🇬🇧
Thank you❤️
What beautiful parents this Mom and Dad are! I hope Alex gets the strength to find treatment someday! Bless all the people and parents that have the struggle of Mental health and addictions! The drugs out there are terrible and so hard for people to get off!
They seem to be great parents.
I’d give a limb to have even one parent like them.
It’s so sad that he can’t appreciate how lucky he is to have them.
Bless your hearts. You’re trying your best
Thank you!
Hugs to these Sweet Parents. I hope Alex can get the HELP he needs You are in my thoughts and loving prayers. May God Bless you both ❤
PS You are so right Glenn never give up. You both look very familiar, I know we have crossed paths. You both are beautiful Parents❤️🌺
Strong testimony. I keep narcan at my house. It’s an incredibly stressful event to have to use it on someone. Thank you for sharing your experience. I think the system has failed many families.
That's great! More people should have it. I keep it in my purse, that way if I'm in my car or in my house, I will have it.
I feel terrible for these fine folks. It must be very painful for them to share their story about the son they love so much. Breaks my heart.
Oh what a story! Thank you both for being so honest with it. You are so sincere in your search for contact with your son. I love Glen's little laugh at the absurdities you of life. Here's to your Alex making his way home to you both. Much much love xx
It is so wonderful that you two are on the same page...obvious major LOVE there❤
Why thank you❤️
Thumbs Up 👍 and Shared Out Everywhere!!❤
Excellent Interview!!!
Thank for your support ❤️😇
It hurts so deep when they are in addiction, prayer is my only way to help my children.
It does. Such a hopeless feeling.
These parents did NOTHING wrong. No one can control the life of another. It's clear to me the son's problem started with the painful break up with a gf. It's unfortunate that drugs are effective at numbing pain, and become progressive in their destruction. Still lots of ppl decide to seek help on their own when their life has gotten so miserable they are willing to put down the drugs. Didn't cause it, can't control or cure it. Prayers!❤
Thank you
@rainpebble8257 I agree. I feel so sorry Alex’s heart was broken and mental illness/drugs took a hold. Glen and Allison are perfect.
The story that they’re telling about their son sounds just like my grandson. This is meth psychosis. The paranoia, the homelessness, wandering around, delusions and even attacks of destruction and violence. They minimize the amount of drugs they take and pretend that they’re normal and just fine. My daughter has gone through hell with my grandson. He started with alcohol and over-the-counter pills at 14. He went to rehab and lived in a special rehab for teens for one year. He got out came back home and went to high school. It wasn’t long before he relapsed and begin doing harder drugs, and that led to meth. It’s been a nightmare. He’s been in jail and in rehab a few times, but always leaves after about four or five days. He’s 32 now and my daughter has banished him from her house. For many years, she tried to help him, and fix the situation, but to no avail. He has to make the decision to recover, no one can do it for him.
I can relate to their story my son stayed on Myrtle Beach for around a year and a half homeless I'd go pick him up bring him to my house he was sober up I'd help him through his withdrawal he turn around be ready to go back at it so I found that running to him wasn't really helping him when I did the tough love thing he came around he went to a rehab in Florida and was there for 6 months he got clean and thank God he's clean and sober today and has been for almost 2 years so I know how it is to not have fun I know how it is not to have a night that you stay asleep I used to feel bad because I would eat a meal and I would think oh my God you know I'm eating this hot meal and he's out there in the cold but thank you so much for posting this kind of interview I think more of these should be done so parents feel like they're not alone thank you again for sharing have a blessed day
Thank tou❤️ this is exactly why we did this. To help others! Your story is so close to ours.
That is fine for drug addicts, but isn't wise for schizophrenics. They need love, and you must find them to give it to them. My husband always responded to love.
Such loving parents. I pray these folks son gets some mental health care. Lkeep trying.
Thank you!! We will❤️
Such loving parents, i wish them peace in their hart and pray for them and their son🙏🙏🤎🙏🙏🤎
He needs to hit rock bottom. And he will ! Eventually he will realize that not everyone has such wonderful and caring parents !
I feel so bad for them. I wish I had such nice parents. Not everyone does !!
I’ll be praying for them ! ❤️🙏💯
Thank for the compliment!! Been waiting 7 years for the bottom. He is stubborn as we are.
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If that's Not rock bottom, what is?
A S\ave ship off the cost of India??
I know what they are going through. I haven't seen my son or talked to him for more than 2 years. I am homeless and don't behave transportation so I don't have an opportunity to go to Seattle to find my son. Police I think get mad if you report your family member missing. My heart is breaking everyday and I just want to see him and hear his voice. If I could have one wish it would be to have the funds to stay in Seattle longe enough to find him. I will pray from the parents on this video and I pray for all of the people on the street who need help and hope for a Chance to see my boy again . Thank you for this video . I feel a little less alone.
I hope with time peace is found. You are doing everything possible to help your loved one.
I am very sorry for these people. I see the encampments all around Seattle. I know they are growing in other major cities as well. I feel hopeless as I don't see a solution. This couple has TRIED! Obviously, they love their son. And yet, there aren't many choices or options for them or Alex. How will we get through this housing/drug/mental illness crisis? I'm "frustrated in Seattle." These lives are not throw away! These people are important!
They are important but most people don't understand.
Thank you so much for sharing. My heart aches for the hurt you have experienced trying to help him. Bless you for maintaining your unconditional parental love that we all have for our children. It must be so difficult for you both. 🙏🙏Sending you both prayers.
Thanks for posting this. I'm so glad I came across it. I've always thought having a child living on the street would just be the end of the world. Seeing this couple dealing with it the best they can over the years has helped me to see that we parents simply cannot expect or be expected to control where life takes our adult children. If handing him a meal from McDonald's through their car window eases their conscience I guess it's worth it, but in reality it doesn't make any difference to their son one way or the other. They seem to have a loving, supporting relationship with each other, though, and that's wonderful to see.
God be with this family and their son
Thank you😀❤️
My heart goes out to these parents, my son will be 48 in June 2024 and this is the story of his life. Though his problems started at 6 years old and just continue to progress and no matter what I tried to do for him it would never last more than an hour or two or a day or two. It's hard to keep your chin up. But nonetheless I love him and I just have to let him live the life he wants and be glad when he calls me and we laugh and talk a minute sometimes and say we love each other in spite of it all. The heartbreak is so real. But God is good and even if I don't understand it all I know he does and I know he watches my boy even when he's wrong. Ps my son loses everything as well he just wants to be free and out on the streets to roam as he sees fit. Truly unbelievable. You as parents cannot blame yourself but it is sad for sure. Its been 42 yrs.
Thank you for sharing this help to be not alone ❤️
Schizophrenia is one of the worst mental illness to have. Medicine helps, but they have to constantly tweak it and change it and be willing to do that. Big ❤
Not good at all. We need more help from the agencies!
Heartbreaking
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I hope other parents can learn from this. Kids need unconditional love and support, not judgement and accusations. If the parents aren't the one source of safety from the harshness of the world, they will lose hope and spirit.
Thanks for watching and your thoughts, much appreciated.
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Great words of encouragement!! Thanks❤️
What is it that other parents should learn? What more would you have these to do? Do you think they didn't try their best? Speaking from experience, a child growing up with unconditional love and support is not protected against mental illness and drug use. Did you notice their humility in saying that they used to believe that a child in their neighborhood must have had bad parents? Please consider that even if parents are a source of safety, like these are, the child may be too sick to keep their hope. Good parents who try their best are better than the alternative, but we don't have systems in place in our society to effectively care for mental illness.
You are GREAT parents. The anger and all, it's not him, it's the disease. We all have our burdens I guess.
My husband had intermittent mental illness until into his early thirties. It came home to stay and that was the schizophrenia. I had to call police on him a few times, one of which he walked away with two young fit officers hanging off his arms, carried them like they weighed nothing. He wasnt on drugs, i had been with him all day long and the night before. You just cant predict what is going to happen with schozophrenics. Hubby was manic depressive/schozophrenic with other problems too. God sorts them out and meds are far better than we knew about when my husbands journey started. God bless you for not giving up!
Jam so sorry you’re going through this. I hope and pray things get better for you all .
You are beautiful people, and I will be praying daily for Alex and both of you ❤❤❤ I live in Bellingham, and I will keep an eye out for him if you would like. I donate a bags of dog food to homeless . You both are giving it your all and that's pure unconditional love that is priceless ❤❤❤ Hang in there. Your story is heartbreaking but inspiring too ❤️ 💙 🧡🩵
This vlog is hard to watch. God please keep these parents safe while they are looking for their son, and I ask you keep the son safe. I pray for this family for all to be saved and have a relationship with Jesus, it seems He is the only one that can help doctors couldn't, rehabilitation couldn't , but God can. God show them when enough is enough and give them the strength to do what is best for all . Sending love to these parents
Thank you ❤️😇
Amen!🙏🏻
Parents try not to take it personally, he doesnt mean to be cruel, I know his words hurt you, he needs help, my prayers go out to you🤧🙏🏼
God im so sorry. My daughter just died to leave her sad life
I’m so sorry for your tragic loss. Sending hugs and prayers
😢 sorry for your loss hugs
I tried searching for the posting about Alex on Facebook but was unable to find it. I live in Lake City and have seen a younger man walking around with a moving blanket wrapped over his shoulders; I’ve also seen him at/near the Shoreline McDonald’s on 145th/Bothell Way. Wondering if it is him. If there is a way for me to see what he looks like from a photo/get a link to posting then I’d be glad to notify you next time I spot him (if this is your son). Description seems to match - he’s usually walking solo. Sending love to you both ❤
I met an alex at Fairfax mental hospital in kirkland. Hopefully he's safe
I understand 😢
Very sad and stressful to lose a child to drugs.
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My son was my life. 24/7. He Moved to Seattle area married a cops daughter & blocked me & his loving sister everywhere Tears us up everyday
so sorry ❤
@@catherinealexandrian9927 thank you
You are right. It IS a 'God thing', not magic. God loves your son. Praying that God continues to preserve and protect Alex, until he heals him.
Its so hard, i understand
By contrast, I spent some months homeless in Seattle after 9-11. Couldn't find work (I'm a carpenter), lost my apartment and I was living in my van. At least I had shelter and mobility., so I was better off than most. Got rousted by the cops wherever I went, despite my trying to keep a low profile. Did my parents care? Not a whit. They refused to help me at all, called it "tough love". Worst time of my life. At least this kid had parents who gave a shit. And I am not a drug addict nor am I mentally ill, but I was treated like shit for being out of work. Nobody had work after 9-11, it was such a a shock to the economy. People just assumed I was a low life. Brutal. But I plugged away, finding small projects, doing yard work, house sitting (which was a godsend), and other odd jobs. Eventually I was able to save up enough to get my own place, but it was a long haul.Did I thank my parents for their wisdom? Hell no.
Awful! My brother has dealt with addiction and is now brain-injured due to an overdose.
So sorry to hear. Hoping for the best😇
Theses parents are delusional, the son they raised is dead. They need to leave him alone, stop stalking and harassing him before he kills them.
Your doing everything right there's all you can do
And pray
😊🙏💜
Thank you
I am also looking for my brother Carlos somewhere in Seattle streets???
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Yes early use of marijuana can bring on schizophrenia in males around 21-22. Very very difficult. I feel for the parents. I have dealt with this sorta thing and situation in my own family. Some of the same issues minus the hard substances. My loved one called the sheriff on himself and we had to call several times and also have an eviction. That seemed to help our kid. But it is truly heartbreaking 💔!!!😢😢
Thank you❤️
Yes, ppl don’t realize that there is a serious connection between marijuana use and the onset of schizophrenia. Especially since there is higher concentration ofTHC in today’s weed, I’d seriously counsel kids about the drug being “safe”.
Thinking of setting up a Zoom meeting for parents interested in talking about our situations. Maybe we could become allies to make a difference in Seattle. Let me know by posting here
So hard.He needs mental health assistance and with schizophrenia he is unable to make proper choices.Then if he's not going to kill himself or someone else at the moment they can't keep him.To expect him to make clear decisions is mostly impossible. No commonsense with mental health.You have been there done so much.Family member was homeless and mentally ill.Got into minor altercation with police and was given choice for jail or state hospital.He was put in medication and now lives by himself , pays his bills.It was a God intervention.
Thank you tor sharing! We hope he could get arrested so he could be helped! Sad that this is the only option☹️
Look up the "Surrender Novena"a very powerful and healing prayer
I have 3 sons. All adult. I don't know how I would have handled that.
How heartbreaking for you. You are such wonderful parents. Please don’t blame yourself for his condition. You are very loving. Please go to support groups. How is your daughter doing? How old is she and how has her brother affected her. I hope with all🎉 my heart that you find joy in life, you sure are a loving couple and so glad you have each other, through this horrible time in your life. I do not know you, but Wish I could hug you both and tell you not to blame yourself ever. Would love to keep in touch, do you have a email or face book account? Please let me know.
Thank you! Trying to setup a group of people interested in sharing on Zoom. I posted a comment asking.
At what point is appropriate to give up for self preservation? Although you can always have hope, I believe at a certain point you need to let go and move on. Is this wrong?
My opinion : those treetmrnt centers should be inpatient for at least a year then not released homeless but into transitional housing
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I think if the problem was drug abuse only the part about hitting bottom is true, but not with an added mental illness. He needs a mental hospital.
We agree! Hoping he wants the help some day😞
@GlennSMac My prayers go out to you. I grew up with a brother who was addicted to heroin. It took two stints in prison and almost a 3rd for his rock bottom. Thankfully, he did not also have mental illness.
So hard.
I know your own kid❤️
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I think people feel like its their fault...or that people will judge them...which many do...ive even been guilty of that....my screwed up ego....because i was not a saint....PEER PRESSURE is the damn evil entity!!..God bless you for being open and honest.you can help others so much!!!
Thank you!!❤️
Go to any AA/ NA meeting and you will see hundreds of men and women who are just like their son ... In and out of treatment centers; seldom cured ...
To me this so called addiction is different with mental illness person vs others who are addicts for the euphoria reasons. Schizophrenia usually exhibits in the early 20's with the paranoia & voices. They find drugs or alcohol as a way to deal with the disease. As opposed to addicts who start with recreational drugs & go on to harder drug chasing that high. Like someone mentioned there is no law to keep mentally ill patients in treatment. They won't stay on meds without supervision.
The word is homeless, call things what they are.
Thanks for saying it. Unhoused, unalived, all these new terms irritate me.
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God bless you in your efforts for your son. It’s up to him, and may come down, eventually to involuntary help, because of his Schitzoid disorder. They never want take meds, usually and refuse everything. Just remember, it has nothing to do with you or anything , just him. Pray through Christ Jesus for help you cope and be at Peace , in Him. Amen.
Thank you❤️
Plymouth Housing supportive housing. Please look into it.
This also sounds like the beginning of Schizophrenia, but not denying drug abuse.
Wish we could help figure this out ❤️
prayng for your son's healng and salvation in Jesus name, my fam had also been affected but saved with miracle w/ Jesus... hope those voices leave by the power of the Cross . and play worship hymns and classics like Canon D
Thank you for your prayers.
I am sorry...it is a crazy tunnel of blackness to try and help an addict...especially one that doesn't want help...you need to NOW look after your own mental health so that you are in a healthy headspace to help him when he's ready...stop wasting your energy on going nowhere. Stop running after a rabbit you'll never catch...stay healthy for when he's ready.
The religious right always blames the absence of the “core family”. Seems like a lot of troubled people are from really good homes with mom and dad
These diseases don’t pick and choose. Thank you❤️
@@GlennSMac My point exactly!! 😃
Recently the "thought" seems to be that those who were raised "soft" , soft men make hard times. Hard times make hard men. Something like that anyway, lol. Sorry I can't remember it well. My memory is going.
@@GlennSMac! Hubby first was diagnosed as drug seeking, then as schizophrenic, them manic depressive schizophrenic. Then add on personality disorders, then multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, diabetes. Wondering if the multiple sclerosis didn't cause the rest. He died at 62. At home.
@@annsaunders5768 ((Hugs)). I’m sorry bout your husband. That’s a horrible combination of circumstances. My dad passed at 60. Just alcoholism. The closer I get to that age, the more I wonder if I end up like him. I tell myself and others….he died of a broken heart 💔
Hes not insane. Its the meth
Depression? 😢
No sure yet between drugs and mental illness
Souvds as though he may be Schizoprenic, this is the age when it developes .Rugs arevused to cooe with the illness and may possibly accelerate it.
Meth is the problem in Seattle
There but for the grace of God go i.
Can they not get Medical power over him since he isn't able to make good decisions and have him committed maybe?? especially since he has a mental issue
At age 18 it changes everything. They have to be truly suicidal and be admitted somewhere