Thank you so much Mark for giving me this opportunity to speak about my parents and my story. And thank you all for the kind and supportive comments it really means a lot to me❤️

Holy shit. Her father was my tattoo artist. He did a piece on my elbow the day before he died. I was the last person he inked. God bless you, October. You look just like your mother. There's hundreds and hundreds of people here in Tennessee that love you and wish the best for you, even though we will never know you.

My mind is blown at how this young woman managed to keep herself so strong and focused while being surrounded by unbelievable family turmoil. October, your intelligence and your spirit are immeasurable. The best is yet to come for you. Love and power!

This girl's going to be all right. You can see the strength in her.

How she went through all that and came out in one piece is beyond me. She's amazingly strong.

The way she speaks about her parents says a lot. She told her story so non-judgmentally. She doesn’t mention ever feeling unloved or being abused, just explains what happened. I’ve heard many stories similar to hers, but never told in this way.

I am age 73. My mother passed a few months ago at the age of 93. All I felt was relief. I don't have to deal with any parent mental health, and addiction issues ever again! 73 years is a long time.

This old soul has lived a thousand lives! She's an absolute emotional force to reckoned with. All odds stacked against her and yet shows the deepest grace!

“It’s easy to compare yourself to other people’s paths, but when you have been through a narrow path with tons of shit in the way, it’s okay to take it slow”🥺 really needed to hear this. Thank you beautiful October✨

This interview ran over an hour so I was gonna watch only a few minutes but I couldn’t stop. October, you have such grace, intelligence and beauty despite all the family turmoil. I hope that from now on you’re able to make the satisfying, no-drama life that you so richly deserve.

She tells it with the acuity of a professor, the honesty of a saint, and the innocence of a child.

This is a woman who was dealt the worst hand and turned it into a winning hand. Too often we hear these stories and aren't surprised that people turn out for the worst. October is living proof of how you cannot control your environment, but control how you react to it. Amazing person!

It’s amazing she actually said “my parents are great parents” after what can only be described as absolute hell for a child to grow through. Wish her nothing but the best

I would love a follow-up interview with her in like a year to see her progression. What a strong and gracious young woman. October, you deserve the very best! 💜

What i admire about October, she never once played the victim card. Nothing but unwavering love for her parents. She is such an emotionally mature woman. Beautiful she is ❤

I am a 52 year old woman with significant childhood trauma that carried on throughout my 20s and 30s, and into my 40s. After listening to October, I just wish that I had her in my life, even on the peripheral. Her articulation and even storytelling are helping me to stop and deconstruct everything I’ve been through. She is truly brilliant.

October is showing us what resilience looks like, and how it is the key to overcoming trauma. She is a powerful example of this. Her story, as rough as it truly is, makes her stronger as it fails to undo her.

Wow. What a woman, what a story. October is a diamond -- created from intense pressure, tough, lasting, and gorgeous. She deserves so much happiness.

I can’t tell you how much I needed this interview. Our stories are eerily similar, but instead of being in the rock scene my parents were in the hip hop one. My dad was recently released from being locked up for 4 years, and I can tell he’s already ran back to the drugs. I’m 23 years old , but I swear half of those years has been used up worrying about that man. I’m currently across the country and I feel like I’m waiting for “that call” every day. It’s killing me too. He’s my best friend and an amazing dad. Addiction sucks. Thank you for your story October.

This young lady’s a class act, if she chooses to continue sharing her story she will help a lot of people.

the compassion and understanding with which she speaks about her parents says everything about her character. october, you can do anything 🧡🦋🌻 ps, if you have no desire to have a partner that's valid. but if you ever do, remember this: "we accept the love we think we deserve." don't ever think you deserve anything less than healthy, compassionate love. be well, girlie 💖

When she said the part about her dad passing and how, i immediately started crying. Her parents obviously loved her so much but they had deep issues within themselves, as she said. Addiction is such a heartbreaking thing to go through and she is very strong for continuing to go on and not falling down the same path. RIP, they seemed like wonderful people who were tormented by addiction.

i grew up in chattanooga around october. we are the same age. i vividly remember her being one of the prettiest girls in the city yet no one ever saw her. i remember girls at my school looking through her instagram and saying “if i looked like her i would be the most popular girl in the city how come she’s not?” and the boys would look at her insta and say “how come i’ve never seen her at football games she’s so hot” it sounds super shallow but we were high school girls of course. come to find out this is what she was dealing with the whole time. october, i am so sorry you had to grow up so fast and deal with this. you should be immensely proud of who you’ve become and the grace that you’ve carried through this. praying and hoping you find peace and purpose and keep succeeding in life 💗

I lost my dad in November 2022 from a fentanyl overdose. It definitely has changed my life. You are so strong thank you for telling your story ❤

she's such a hero for being a whole parent for her own parents, especially her dad, while getting a degree in science, i have no idea how she managed to keep a clear mind through this

I cannot imagine going through all that she did at such a young age…. You are a true warrior.

Her story is so unbelievably similar to my own, and I’m amazed at her grace, perspective, intellect, and beauty- both inside and out. There’s something incredibly evolved about telling this story, a story that’s so tragic by the end, but beginning it with “I had an awesome childhood”. So many people with tragic stories just start with the trauma, start from the spot where things turned bad. To have the perspective, to understand the juxtaposition between the good and the bad, to see the nuance in spite of all that happened and how traumatized she must be, how in some ways they stole her adolescence and she’s still able to cherish the good years- it’s so unlike most people and it shows such a grace and maturity and evolved state of mind. October, I just want to say that you’re absolutely right about taking your time. I’ve got a similar backstory. I’m 26 now and I’m a law student. I started college at 23. I was way behind my peers. But I took my time. And thank god for that. Because I’m a 4.0 student, I’ve got a child of my own, and I know there’s no way I would’ve been so successful at 18 or 20. I needed time to exist, to be myself, to be separate from that fight for survival. Now I have the opportunity to go to one of the top three law schools in the US, despite being a kid from a podunk town in Arkansas. It’s beyond my wildest dreams and it’s only possible because I took my time.

"I have to start all the way over" the feeling of being constantly burnt out from living in the hell of a family affected by alcoholism is indescribable. Everything becomes so difficult, even the simplest things. And there is no escape. I have to start all the way over EVERY f@cking day of my life. October, thank you so much for sharing your story.

October !!!!!!! You are a role model to anyone going through trauma and hardship. Bless you girl!

To October, if you read this, I want to say thank you for sharing your story. ❤ You’re an inspirational person, and so resilient and strong. When you said how you loved your parents, even though they were consumed by addiction, it really showed how understanding and loving you are. Not many people have the mature perspective you do. Please never give up because the world needs more people like you. This might sound odd, but you’re existence inspires me to continue going because if you can make it then so can anyone else. You also mentioned how you may avoid future relationships, and I want to say that although I can understand your perspective, I want you to know that healthy relationships do exist and you are so deserving of one. You don’t have to be perfect to be in a good relationship, you just have to be your best self, and from what I can tell, you are one of the best people out there. Even if you don’t believe that, there are many people out there, including me, that would say you are the best! Please continue living life full of love, because the answer to all problems in life can be overcome with love. ❤

Psychedelics are just an exceptional mental health breakthrough. It's quite fascinating how effective they are against depression and anxiety. Saved my life.

Wow. She is the very definition of emotional maturity. I’m blown away by this young lady. She had to be the calm in a frazzled, consistently erratic tornado. I’m so grateful I stopped by to listen to her story. Mind blowing.

I have no words. The courage to take something so negative and turn it into something so positive. October, you are such an inspiration. Best wishes to you, you are going to continue to do amazing things.

I get the feeling she'll go on to do great things with her life, doing it at her own pace.

This story could be a helluva script for a movie. You are a great speaker and have a great future in anything you try. The love for your parents shows tons of maturity.

She's so tough, smart, that girls got grit And compassion. Rare combo. ❤

Its good that she can talk about this stuff. Shes young. As you get older that internalized childhood stuff starts bubbling to the surface in odd ways: trauma, resentment, confusion, fear, anger....you think youre free at adulthood to create your own safe reality but oh no, the trauma follows you around. Talking about it helps most people, gotta keep that level head. Its work.

I can't imagine what it is like going from full-time trauma and worry about parents killing themselves and suddenly having no one but herself to care for. You could really see a relief in her whole body as she explained this. I hope she continues taking better care of herself than her parents.

This interview was really heartbreaking.. brought me the tears. To watch your beautiful family fall apart to that level......😢. I'm amazed at how articulate, gracious and well-rounded October was describing her parents and the horrors of addiction. She has such a beautiful resilience . I hope she gets all the support and healing she needs to recover. ❤❤❤

Dear October, You make everyone who hears your story proud of you. I'm so sorry for your losses, your parents, your dog, and some important parts of your childhood. I love hearing about how much you enjoy your day to day life. Educate yourself about everything related to addiction, as it can appear in many different disguises. Alanon helped me a lot, but to each her own. Sending love....

Mark I have watched your channel for over 2 years now, and this is by far the best interview I have ever seen. October, you are an absolutely incredible woman who has over came so much with so much strength and grace, take your time, because no matter what you will be extremely successful, you already are ❤️ I’m rooting for you girl 💕

Man, she is wise beyond her years. Reminds me of my daughter. I pray you don't have to spend the majority of your young adult life recovering from your childhood.

Its tragic. Her life took a complete 360 from having the most best fun childhood to a complete nightmare. Addiction changes people to where they are unrecognizable. My heart aches for her.

October is so right about not rushing things and just taking the time you need. I know so many people who have ruined their lives or made bad decisions because of the pressure to "keep up". Such a powerful story.

This was a therapy session she definitely needed. She lived such a mature life as a small teenager basically taking care of both of her parent's mental health without complaining. Hope she's doing ok wish her the best.

She says “I have to start all the way over…” - you’ve learned & experienced many life lessons, that many will never know or understand much later in life. This so much more valuable than any tangible item…good luck! We’re cheering you on!

I really appreciate how you brought up the impact that addiction has on Animals. Its a very valid yet underestimated subject. I knew two dogs who witnessed a very tragic homicide connected with their owners.. Ive never seen animals change so much in the course of their lives.

Unfortunately when one stops, it doesn't mean the other one will. My husband has 14 years more clean than I do. The fact that he stuck with me, and didn't let me go, just makes me thank God every single day. And he was there for the kids when I couldn't be. I was also raised by addicts/alcoholics. My kids are actually breaking the cycle 🙏🏻. Thank you for your story, and thank you, Mark!

I really like her perspective on life. Sometimes when you've been through a lot you just have to take it slow and be thankful for what you have. She's a wise person.

You are so mature and have the strength that many adults do not. I’m so sorry that you had to be the “parent,” and that you are so resilient is truly astounding.

Like many I came here to watch 5 or 10mins when I noticed it was over an hour long… yet here I am 30mins in and can’t stop watching. She is a very efficient and clear story teller ❤

This girl is amazing and has handled her environment and family with incredible courage. She exhibits a classic role of being the parent and responsible person in a family of addicts. I am so impressed with her.

And this is exactly why I quit drinking, so my kids will never have to feel pain like this. AA saved my life.

Girl if you’re ever in New York and need to vent..you’ve got a friend right here. I watched my mom go through a nightmare of life, a life on drugs, alcohol combined with schizophrenia and she died of cancer in September. Having unstable parents is tough. I thank god every day I was raised by my grandparents with my mom just being in and out of my life. Thank you for sharing your story. You are so strong and resilient. I’m sure maybe in the comments or in real life people might say wow how could you go through so much and come out “normal.” Remember: GOD only gives us what we can handle. We are living examples of that. I am happy you have a good head on your shoulders. Stay strong and keeping tracking forward ❤❤❤

What a sweet, smart, amazing young girl. No sex work, no addictions of her own. Somewhere in there her parents instilled something very positive in her.I guess you could say, at least she knew she was loved. I pray that she finally has the peace she deserves. She's so right, take it easy and enjoy life.

I cannot express how much empathy I have for you, you went through so much. My dad was an alcoholic and I always thought my parents were better off separated (they were separated for a while but both were fighting for assets and made me crazy)…well it took 35 years for them to divorce and when it finally did I felt free for the first time in my life. Hugs to you! You’re a warrior, I take my hat off to you. ❤

This young woman is the epitome of dignity, perserverance and grace. Her experiences prove that some people can choose not to allow their past to define their future and I wish Miss October all of the hope, peace and joy that life has to offer. Happy Journey!

She rose above it all and never gave up. My heart hurts for what this young lady went through but I am also happy for her that she is in a safe space. We need to protect this young lady at all costs!

October, I am so sorry you lost both your parents. I lost my mom to DV fueled by drugs and alcohol and I am ok now. I’m not 100% fine but I’ve been a pediatric ICU nurse, I worked adult ICU during the pandemic and I’ve saved hundreds of lives. I have a son. I have a home and a car and dogs and I’ve been beautiful places. I do what I love now. Have hope. Life is not always sunshine and rainbows and I did experience DV later on in life but I learned so much from that. Things are better on the other side of all this. I don’t drink or do drugs. You’re going to have an amazing life and if you ever do have kids you can tell them your story and also every person you meet so hopefully one less person has to go through this. ❤ God bless you girl. Keep being strong.

You are a compassionate old soul and the world is blessed to have you in it.

She’s been through so much at such a young age. I’m praying for her to find her happiness. ❤️

Wow, that was off the charts! For her to be so articulate about her family and navigate her parents addictions, just incredible. Often times the children become more of a parent than the parents are. Thank you for sharing

October you are such an amazing storyteller, you have so much strength and such a good head on your shoulders. I’m a similar age to you and experienced a few major traumatic events back to back in college and I was brought to tears when you spoke about going easy on yourself for not being in school. You deserve the world! Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing

Sorry to hear about your mom :( I lost my mom when I was 19, she was 50 to lung cancer. It's so hard losing a parent. You've got a bright future ahead of you young lady. Thank you for sharing your story. Very well spoken!

For not being an ex-addict, she would be a great addiction counselor. She’s lived through it!

I'm a father of 4 kids. I feel for this young woman. I have made my mistakes but never left my kids in a state of needing me and not being there.

October, you unfortunately learned super early how precious time is. So I’m glad you’re not rushing things, you’re able to just figure it all out. I’m really sorry about your parents. You sound like you were a great daughter…and it’s nice that you can remember the parts of them that were sweet. I know it sounds cheesy but I’m glad you have your dads dog, I hope that you guys can grieve and heal together.

What this girl has gone through is unfathomable. She is amazingly strong.

Wow - she doesn't have a single visible tattoo. This is incredible, given her parents' love of this artform.

I am 50 years old and have been clean and sober for 29 years....Sorry that you had to go through this but just know your parents loved you and they were just sick...focus on the good memories and spend the rest of your days living the best life you can....live the way you wished they would have lived their lives ....god bless

I've seen this before - and not always drug addicted parents and with kids her age! The daughter is the parent, and her parents are the children she is caring for. Anyhow she is an absolute angel. I wish the very best for her, as do EVERYONE who has seen this video. She has a LOT of fans, supporters, and people that care for her.

You can't think for a second that your parents weren't proud of you. They looked up to you like a mother. Addiction makes people so vulnerable and your love for them felt like the love of a parent as I listened to your experiences. We can't fix anyone's addiction, they have to come to that point on their own. I'm so sorry that your life was so traumatic and condolences for your losses. You're an inspiration to those listening and whether you become an esthetician or something else it's clear you're someone to be proud of. You'll find your way and heal others along your path. I don't even know you but I'm proud you. Thank you for sharing your story with the world. I hope everyone's comments find you like a loving embrace. It would have been easy to fall into the same patterns of addiction and self harm but the universe has better plans for you. Stay strong 🤗

I’m so sorry for the loss of your parents and for everything you went through. Your story telling ability is impressive and compelling

What a blessing to this world to have a daughter like her. I'm glad that she can move on and flourished.

Wow, I also didn’t mean to watch this video because it was so long but I couldn’t stop. I cried watching your strength and courage to tell this very personal and raw story. I’m glad Mark did this interview because we don’t often get to hear from the loved ones who love addicts. Loving an addict is so complex and lonely. It often times feels like a one way street where we the “sober” one are working so hard to keep the relationship going, at all cost, even at the cost of our own emotional health. You are a beautiful soul and I hope you find your joy and peace. You deserve it more than anyone. ❤

I cannot believe how amazing this young woman is. Based on when she went to high school, she is likely what, 20?? Born in 2003??? I have no words. AMAZING PERSON. I wish her a wonderful life despite the nightmare.

Wow! October you are ridiculously strong. I cannot even imagine what you went through. Thank you so much for sharing your life, you truly deserve the world!! 💗

Just want to say, IDK if you would ever see this but I lost my parents back to back and had to watch them pass away too. I think that you're so inspiring because I don't know a lot of people my age that have gone through that or seen what there perspective is on things (if that makes sense). I think you are so inspiring and you are going to do so many great things. Your story and life really resonates with me. Thank you for sharing your story. You are helping so many people that are going through this too. Strong grirl! I wish you all of the best in life.

You graduated early, despite all the crap you're going through at at home!? Wow major kudos to you and much respect to you. I went through the same thing with my parents during high school. You are incredibly smart and mature. I have faith you will break the mold, and will create a wonderful life for yourself if you haven't already. You are helping others by sharing your story. Thank you this hit deep.

Both my parents were addicts too, heroin and pills mostly, and the all too familiar mental problems. My mom was a model with an eating disorder and my dad would self harm and unfortunately had an obsession with knives at the same time. It was crazy and I’m sure if we were to exchange stories we would be here until next year. One thing about us is our dark sense of humor is just unmatched. Your story resonates and will for a lot of people! I run a helpline service for those like us specifically, and you’re explaining it spot on actually. I also just want to confirm alcohol does kill and is a far bigger problem than any other substance. And to parents out there; you might think a couple of glasses won’t do any harm, but most kids are so sensitive they will notice even the littlest change. Ask them how they feel instead of assuming.

October. I don’t often comment but your story really touched my heart for many reason. You are so beautiful, strong, brave, inspirational and will go far ❤️ love from New Zealand. Also the part at the end about the dogs having their own stories shows how big your heart is 🥺

It's stunning how some children/loved ones of addiction can turn out like October; like a rose blooming out of quicksand. You are a marvel. Share your story.

Trauma comes in many forms, and rears its ugly head very differently in many different situations, but how held together she comes across in this interview is incredible. I'm very sorry for your experience, October, and I hope that things can get better moving forward.

Such a kind soul. She is a genuine person and deserves someone who can take care of her throughout her lifetime. I’ve dealt with similar issues with my parents and drug/alcohol abuse and one thing that has always helped me is my wife being able to “tame” me. You get so caught up in taking care of everyone else and that becomes all you can do anymore. Leaving no emotions for yourself. God speed young lady.

She's such an inspiring young woman, through all the hurt and pain she's been through,she's being able to overcome it.and she's wise beyond her years,she was able to realise that happiness can be found in leaving a simple life. I hope life brings her better things and happiness

As a survivor of trauma, the last thing you want to hear every 5 minutes is how "strong" and "resilient" you are, when you actually feel like you're dying inside and just want to be loved and feel supported. October its ok if you don't feel like superwoman after going through all of that - and I sincerely pray that you have a good support system in place and that you are in therapy and talking to someone about your feelings. You deserve the best of everything. May your parents rest peacefully - God bless you.

My dad had an opiate addiction for about 10 years, he died from thoe effects last year. I cant begin to explain how both horrified and comforted I i was to listen to listen to this similar story

I relate to her story so, so, so much. My mom was a heroin addict and later an alcoholic. I really relate to the fact that she still loves them and sees them as good parents despite the addictions, I feel that way about my mom and it's so complicated I think only children of other addicts can get it.

I love her perspective. I lost a parent to suicide in college and since the family motto was 'suck it up' i didn't take a break or anything. But then i got violently robbed by a gang of men and it kicked in major ptsd symptoms and ended up bailing for a semester anyway. Her idea to just take it easy when you need to is perfect. You don't need to push yourself all the time. Wisdom beyond her years.

I've also lost my dad form suicide, and my mom at the age of 5. The way she speaks about the incidence is so nonchalant. I think this girl is still in shock. It truly hit her yet. I was also very detached to the trauma for the first few years.Hope she gets through it ok.

October, both my parents were addicts too. My father had severe ptsd and was very verbally abusive. I later spoke out about 6 him to my family and got canceled. I suffered for years as an adult from depression because it is so lonely being a child of addicts. But in my 30s I found the love of my life, great friends, graduated from college and accomplished lots of things. Keep your head up. You are a very smart and self aware woman. You are brave. Thank you for sharing your story with us. You will inspire a lot of people and give them hope.

Oh, wow. I can relate. My Mom was in the hospital with cirrhosis at age 45. The doctors said she'd die in a year if she didn't stop drinking. My Dad said " you kids better figure out how to make her stop". Btw, she didn't. Drank every day for 30 more years. Her brain was mush. And she was really mean. I didn't stop taking care of her till she died when I was 45. You're a strong woman, October. And sometimes we have to create our own families. I'm so sorry.

Quite often in order to disassociate from family, a close relative will refer to the addict as he or any number of other pronouns. It's so sad because she repeatedly says "my dad" because she loves and cares about him so much. Despite the horrific conditions she lived within, she is a solid and amazing young woman. PROPS

My last boyfriend had been married to a woman who drank herself to death when she was in her early 30’s, their kids were just 3 and 6. It was a very horrible, selfish ending. He made doctor appointments for her and she refused to go and get help also. Luckily he’s raised the kids very well so far on his own, they’re amazing little people. They don’t yet know what actually happened to her. October, you seem like such a sweet, strong young woman. I don’t know you but I’m so proud of you ♡

I have never seen such a mature girl in my entire life . To speak wise before tragedy and after !! Your parents are proud of you and I’m sure they always were . Loads of love from Poland/Europe

October has resilience because her EARLY childhood, to her, was great. She felt accepted and loved. Yes, she's experienced dysfunction, deviant behaviours, unpredictability and instability but those EARLY years are what is key. I've taught many, many high school students over the years and know first hand how what happens between the ages of 0 and 5 is paramount to how the individual is able to cope, both intellectually as well as emotionally in the following years. And the entire secret to resilience. Indeed, even if one parent is emotionally supportive, even in only 50% of the time, the effect on the child is HUGE. I have both personal and professional experience. My adult sons and their families are the most important people to me and then include a couple of other select humans and every dog and cat I've ever known ........ A public figure who's biography can be compared to October's is Liza Minelli and sadly, this "family scenario" is becoming more common although every family has its dysfunctions. October will be just fine.

October, What an incredible story. I'm so sad for you that things took such a dramatic turn for you and your family over the last 5 years. And I'm so sorry that you lost both primary relationships of your mother and father, so close together. Young lady, you have an inner guidance that is remarkable and rare. I'm just a stranger up here in NH that listened to your story twice before commenting. As a mom and also as a person who lived in So Cal in the 80s, I do hope you are able to avoid the drug world that is more prevalent than ever. I told my son (who lives in S.D.) last year...if I had to live my life over...I would NOT touch one item of recreational anything, EVER. Your steel resolve will serve you well in life. You are still in survival mode so give yourself more time of "no pressure" to figure out schooling. Be well, sweetheart and best of luck to you. Hope to see you back for an update in the future. >:D< 💜💜💜💞

Such an articulate young lady. I am sorry you have had to endure such trauma in your young life October. No matter what kids love their parents. The fact she is so forgiving is touching. I really hope addicted adults with young people in their lives listen to this. I wish you so much love and kindness in your future life moving forward. I hope you have good people in your corner. Much love you are an amazingly strong woman. ❤

Wow, October’s story is so intense. I’m very impressed with her resilience in the face of so much hardship, admire her for her wisdom, and feel humbled by her gratitude and positive thinking regarding living a simple life after her parents passed.

Kids growing up in a dysfunctional can only guess at what normal looks like . October is an amazing young woman - and I hope she keeps “winning “ at life with a Good therapist around for any rough moments that creep up due to being the parent to her parents Great interview