11 Comments
User's avatar
Bill Rice, Jr.'s avatar

I published a version of this story (that is 300 words longer) yesterday at my local Substack, The Troy Citizen. Anyone interested in reading the longer version can go to the link here:

I've always thought a compelling human interest story will resonate with local readers and, perhaps, readers who aren't from this town or state.

https://thetroycitizen.substack.com/p/some-things-are-bigger-than-bama

Expand full comment
Mark In Houston's avatar

A tragic story with a message of redemption. Thanks for sharing Rodney’s story, Bill.

Expand full comment
Jeffrey W Massey's avatar

Great story Bill. Drugs and alcohol have destroyed so many people.

Expand full comment
Bill Rice, Jr.'s avatar

Couldn't you write a similar non-fiction memoir? You came out from the other side - thank God!

Expand full comment
Jeffrey W Massey's avatar

Yes, and I have been trying to kick around a few ideas on the subject my friend. Keep up the great work Bill.

Expand full comment
Bruce L. Nelson's avatar

Thanks for sharing Bill. You helped someone today

Expand full comment
FH's avatar

Thanks for this story, Bill. It’s great to read a human interest story, especially with redemption and purpose.

Expand full comment
SteelJ's avatar

Wow. Thanks for writing this.

Expand full comment
ExcessDeathsAU's avatar

Bill this was exceptional. Thank you. The drug culture in Australian sport is next-level. The players are often high, and some of our best players played their best games absolutely blasted in multiple codes. If you want a real 'sporting story' look up the case of Ben Cousins of the West Coast Eagles - AFL.

Everyone in Perth has a 'Ben Cousins' story. I don't even like sports and I have multiple 'Ben Cousins stories.' It is an absolute miracle he is still alive and has not killed dozens of people. His excesses are internationally known and even shocked US sports pundits who have made documentaries about him. This will interest you: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aeK-4-dQLkk

Thanks again for the great article.

Expand full comment
Bill Rice's avatar

Thanks, AU. I wonder how many tens of thousands (or more) Americans ultimately died from just Adderall addiction. That was/is an approved and legal drug.

The Greatest Drug Cartel in the world is the Legal Drug Cartel (aka Big Pharma).

Expand full comment
Cheeky Gesturton's avatar

So so true!

Expand full comment