Marathon Runner Shares Journey from Addiction to Recovery

Four years ago, Raelynn Franklin was trapped in the grips of alcoholism, struggling to find meaning in her life. Today, she is a marathon runner, having completed her seventh marathon, including the recent New York City Marathon. Her transformation underscores how active communities can be pivotal in overcoming addiction.

In traditional recovery circles, the phrase “fake it ‘til you make it” often circulates. Franklin initially excelled at this, but she quickly learned that one cannot fake the physical and mental endurance required for a 26.2-mile marathon. For her, running became not just a hobby but a crucial aspect of her recovery journey.

Many individuals require clinical rehabilitation to address their substance use issues, but Franklin discovered that this alone was insufficient for her. After completing treatment in 2019, she found herself returning to the isolating environment that had fueled her addiction. This period saw the abrupt end of her marriage and her subsequent job loss, leading her deeper into alcoholism.

Attempting to manage her drinking, Franklin soon realized that it was nearly impossible to limit her consumption to social contexts. She entered treatment believing she could learn to drink “normally,” without understanding the complexities of addiction. Without structure or a supportive community, her efforts faltered.

In 2020, a friend introduced Franklin to The Phoenix, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering sobriety through physical activity and community engagement. Members must maintain sobriety for at least 48 hours to participate in various activities such as yoga, weightlifting, and hiking. This model resonated with Franklin, who craved accountability and support.

At first, she volunteered while secretly arranging her drinking schedule around group activities. Yet, as she became more involved with The Phoenix, her perspective began to shift. With encouragement from her sponsor, Char, Franklin resolved to commit fully to her sobriety in early 2021.

The decision to run the Long Beach Marathon followed soon after. Initially, she did not expect to enjoy the experience, viewing it as merely a challenge. However, running provided the structure and purpose she had been missing. Each run fostered a sense of accountability, helping her keep promises to herself and building confidence she had long lost.

Since that pivotal moment, Franklin has expanded her role within The Phoenix, becoming a certified yoga instructor and leading classes to assist others on their recovery journeys. She is also featured in an upcoming documentary titled SOBER, which explores the impact of connection and physical activity on rebuilding lives.

Now residing in a condominium along the beach, Franklin reflects on her journey from addiction to recovery. She emphasizes the importance of community support in overcoming substance use disorders, advocating for the approximately 5.6 million Californians facing similar challenges.

Franklin believes that the solution lies in creating and funding communities that prioritize connection and self-belief. She encourages individuals and organizations to contribute to recovery programs that foster a sense of belonging. Simple actions, such as leading a yoga session or forming a running club, can significantly impact those in recovery.

By replacing isolation with community and support, Franklin asserts that individuals can rediscover their confidence and transform their lives. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for recovery through connection, purpose, and perseverance.