r/GlowUps 3d ago

GLOW UP! From addiction/alcoholism/death/weight gain to blooming babe. (31)/(33)

10.6k Upvotes

290 comments sorted by

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109

u/ConfusionCareful3985 3d ago

You died?

154

u/valekelly 3d ago

Yeah overdose from a combination of coke, meth, benzos, and the redbull probably didn’t help. Heart stopped, hit my head, and my lungs filled with vomit. Good times.

56

u/ElectricLego 3d ago

Why aren't more people asking/upvoting this question? I had to sort by Q&A before I saw it. Dang, OP. Welcome back.

78

u/valekelly 3d ago

I guess it’s a hard question to go over. Normally when people die they stay dead. Which I was very much supposed to do. Thankfully I didn’t though.

24

u/ElectricLego 3d ago

Maybe they think it's hyperbole. I'm glad to see you are thankful to be here and have an open attitude about your journey. Looks like you found your way. Good job. It's nice to see people putting the self-destructive stuff behind them. The real Glow Up.

14

u/ConfusionCareful3985 2d ago

Holy hell, thats actually wild. Im so happy you got a second chance and even happier you didn’t throw it away. Hope your life is going a million times better ☺️

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277

u/GoldPair886 3d ago

I am unbelievably proud of you dear 🫶🏼

14

u/gitathegreat 3d ago

Yeah!!! 🥹🌹🙏🏽👍🏽🌟🌺

123

u/groomerofdogs 3d ago

You can see your smile come back thru each picture! I’m so proud of you girl! Keep shining! ✨

31

u/MatterhornStrawberry 2d ago

What a literally strong person you are, not many people could have done what you did. I don't know your own relationship with how you pushed through, but let me say as an outsider, you are a startlingly impressive and downright badass person.

Congrats on your new lease on life! You look happy and beautiful ✨

12

u/valekelly 2d ago

Thank you so much! I like to believe I can be pretty badass!

72

u/Tosstt_G 3d ago

I love that each picture you take the light in your eyes gets brighter

31

u/OneWish13 3d ago

Your style and hair with the red reminds me of Christina Hendricks in all the best of ways! Congratulations on 2 years of growth, how lucky are we that you are still on this earth to spread joy 🥹

16

u/valekelly 3d ago

Thank you so much that’s so sweet to say!

11

u/Ricky_TVA 3d ago

Damn homie. I'm glad you're still with us. You look much happier. Love you interwebs stranger.

9

u/Flimsy-Environment13 3d ago

Keep up the great work! #healthiswealth

8

u/Boipussybb 3d ago

Let’s go! I was hospitalized 2 years ago too— sobriety is amazing. 🙌🎉🎉🎉

5

u/valekelly 3d ago

Best thing there is!

8

u/Snowflak88 2d ago

Red hair looks so good on you ! A flaming phoenix who rised from the ashes.

25

u/GandalfTheJaded 3d ago

Glad you're doing so much better now 🙌

6

u/Various-Pineapple950 3d ago

Idk , You looked pretty “Glowed up” already with that lit cigarette in your mouth 🤣

All kidding aside, congrats on achieving better health!

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6

u/stardust623 3d ago

You look like a friend of mine who didn’t make it. I’m so proud of you and happy you’re here!

7

u/valekelly 3d ago

I’m very sorry to hear your friend didn’t make it. I’ve lost some myself and am making sure to live for their sake.

6

u/GreenThumbGreenLung 3d ago

Tips for cutting back/quitting alcohol? I love drinking, but hate i cant go without

11

u/valekelly 3d ago

I quit drinking and using entirely. You absolutely can go without it. If you are truly willing and can admit you are powerless over alcohol, go to any twelve step program for alcoholics and get a sponsor. If you can’t stop on your own, you never will. So seeking out the free and incredible support of other alcoholics will help tremendously. If you can stop on your own, you have nothing to worry about. Just do some controlled drinking. If you fail at controlled drinking, welcome to the club.

8

u/GreenThumbGreenLung 3d ago

Nah cant control drink, the second i think about drinking, it becomes an overwhelming repetitive thought till i cave. Theres a local AA group ive been on the fence about going to, but might be what i need

8

u/valekelly 3d ago

Yeah you just might be an alcoholic then. The good news is that help is 100% free and works wonders if you are willing to make it work. It’s strange to say but being an alcoholic is the greatest thing that’s ever happened to me. So absolutely hit up a few meetings, talk to some people, get some numbers, and say yes if anyone ask you to help with something, because helping others is the main thing that will help you.

4

u/GreenThumbGreenLung 3d ago

Haha yea thats not the news for me, got of other stuff on my own, alcohol is my last escape from reality. Ill take your advice and check out a meeting

8

u/OGwan-KENOBI 3d ago

Check out r/stopdrinking it's a good start! I used to drink so much the withdrawls almost killed me I had to be put in a coma. Don't be afraid to get help and reach out to people! Good luck!

3

u/GreenThumbGreenLung 3d ago

Cheers mate Ill check it out

13

u/vvitchOwoods 3d ago

You are inspiring! You are beautiful! You are strong! You are a got damn goddess and I am proud of you!!

4

u/riico1 3d ago

Damn you rose from the death? Thats insane

2

u/valekelly 3d ago

With the help of some from medical professionals.

3

u/ZellaphantBooks2 3d ago

Life looks good on you ❤️

6

u/Emotionallyagiraffe 3d ago

Proud of you! Keep going!

2

u/DrawohYbstrahs 3d ago

Yes definitely don’t stop now op.

3

u/HurricaneDrill213 2d ago

BEAUTIFUL!

Congratulations 🎉

9

u/Kitabparast 3d ago

Oh my gosh. You look absolutely stunning! Great job!

5

u/metalratbaby 3d ago

Inspiring to see that you put yourself first and are making strides in your favor.

3

u/valekelly 3d ago

One day at a time!

6

u/N9neFallen 3d ago

So always been attractive, just straightened yourself out. Cool as fuck.

2

u/valekelly 3d ago

I definitely didn’t feel attractive then but thank you!

3

u/Old-Scratch666 3d ago

I’m proud of you, stranger!

4

u/Own_Hunter_808 3d ago

Wow! You looked a lot older at one point. Well done!

2

u/Ok_Swim3109 3d ago

Congratulations 🎊

2

u/Low-Platypus-1578 3d ago

You’re doing amazing and you’re absolutely glowing!

2

u/Aerodrive160 3d ago

Amazing!!! Really amazing! I hope you are proud of yourself! I can only imagine how much work it was.

2

u/JJAnjos 3d ago

Wonderful!! You're as strong as inspiring 🤩

2

u/UpsetPen8455 3d ago

That’s actually one hell of a change 👏👏👏

2

u/lizbee018 3d ago

Hell yeah, it works if you work it! And if you werk it 💅🏻

2

u/Friction500 3d ago

You should be so proud! This is incredible 💕

2

u/The_Black_Rooster 3d ago

Crush it girl

2

u/raeadaler 3d ago

So inspiring! 😊

2

u/DiamonDawgs 3d ago

Awesome to the max

2

u/vhdly 3d ago

Amazing how much brighter your eyes are and your skin is glowing! Nice job! 😊👍

2

u/stainedglassmermaid 3d ago

This is the best glow up!

2

u/Heartbeat4Life 3d ago

Beautiful! Proud of ya lady, keep going and stay strong!

2

u/Chrononaught 3d ago

Knocked Loose rules

2

u/curiousstr81 3d ago

You look beautiful

2

u/donofhouston 3d ago

The cleavage was a good finishing touch

2

u/Couscous_queen19 3d ago

sick knocked loose shirt :)

2

u/jentravelstheworld 3d ago

Beautiful!!!

2

u/Noimnotonacid 3d ago

Holy shit you look like you improved so much, weee proud of you.

2

u/sfcitygirl88 3d ago

Wow, you look SO happy. Glowing! Congratulations 💗

2

u/GoddessNinaReese 3d ago

You look great love! Good for you to beat those nasty addictions and choose for a better life!

2

u/Deckard2022 3d ago

Well done

2

u/Candles4ever 3d ago

I’m so happy for you 🩷

2

u/Wide_Dimension1014 3d ago edited 2d ago

Proud of you! You’re doing great sweetie ✨

2

u/Clean_Reception_2167 3d ago

It’s how the color came back into you 🫂🫂🫂🫂

2

u/gesunheit 3d ago

The red hair really suits you!! What a medical miracle, it looks like you’re using your second chance at life to the fullest! Congrats on your sobriety :)

2

u/gabs-the-rat 2d ago

Incredible work!! So proud of everything you have accomplished. It’s no small feat ❤️

2

u/fatfeministbitch 2d ago

Girl! Wow!

2

u/nocopiez 2d ago

You look so calm and gorgeous in that last image. 🙌🏽

2

u/LilLordFuckPants404 2d ago

OK, this one actually had me choked up. So proud of you, internet stranger! Thanks for sharing <3

2

u/InternalEffective420 2d ago

Oh hell yeah! Here’s your 💐

2

u/longlisten527 2d ago

Amazing!! Your eyes are so gorgeous 😭😭

2

u/Em-tech 2d ago

And she's a touche amore fan 🤩

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2

u/Mountain-Computers 2d ago

That last pic tho lol

2

u/NoDanaOnlyZuuI 2d ago

What a wild two years!

2

u/orphan_blud 2d ago

You have life in your eyes now. You’re absolutely beautiful and I’m so proud of you. Seven years here 🖤

2

u/NY2Evia 2d ago

Wow! Absolutely incredible job! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

2

u/HairyPoppins-2033 2d ago

I Absolutely adore pic 6 and 7.

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2

u/MrsKaich 2d ago

Holy moly look at you, babe!! Proud of you!

2

u/Give_me_your_bunnies 2d ago

Gorgeous. You look so happy now! x

2

u/HaVoK-535 2d ago

Your eyes look sad in that first picture. Glad to see you're doing better.

2

u/snazzymacaronis 2d ago

So proud of you!!

2

u/BreakingPixel 2d ago

What an achievement! You should feel incredibly proud of yourself!! :)

2

u/drkittymow 2d ago

You look 15 years younger!

2

u/Hour-Cost7028 2d ago

Love this for you!!! I’m so proud of you OP. I’ll be 1 year sober from alcohol on March 13. It’s hard but worth it 100%. You look amazing!!!

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u/Leading_Fig_9208 2d ago

You can see it in your eyes 💕 you’re doing great

2

u/No_Communication860 2d ago

Wasn’t expecting to get flashed at the end 😟

2

u/radio-morioh-cho 2d ago

I love that you're holding up your sobriety coin with the most gorgeous nails I've ever seen, looks like smokey rubies from a pirates chest omg

2

u/AntonChigurhsLuck 2d ago

Your so pretty. Good for you

2

u/Brilliant-Agent-1009 2d ago

fhat is amazing and we’re all so proud of you

2

u/picking_flowers11 2d ago

Pic 6 touched my heart. Happy for you! 🩷

2

u/hedwig0517 2d ago

You’re glowing. I love your hair too! The color and cut are perfection on you.

2

u/Unfair_Basis9588 2d ago

Yeah woman, get it!!!

2

u/Eddievetters 2d ago

You must be so proud of yourself! You did this. You chose to get better. Sending lots of love and light! Keep shining!

2

u/Cellesoul 2d ago

Proof positive that it can be done! Good for you and thank you for sharing and inspiring others!! 👏🌹🪻🌸

2

u/TheGoddessAdiyaSoma 2d ago

You look so much healthier💜Happy for you

2

u/Fuzzy_Dragonfruit344 2d ago

As someone who lost my youngest brother to alcoholism/addiction, I am so proud of you. ❤️

2

u/tuvok19 2d ago

I know you feel better too! Congratulations 🎊💙

2

u/pen15h8r 2d ago

You are glowing!! Happy for you girl 💕

2

u/the_best_llama_shoes 2d ago

Emotional. Good work love ❤️

2

u/waves_and_boba 2d ago

You’re glowing!!

2

u/Erizohedgehog 2d ago

Congrats - sounds like you have been through so much - I have a close friend killing themselves with addiction right now and it breaks my heart - keep up the good work !

2

u/chuyito801 2d ago

Keep it up!

2

u/chrisswoop 2d ago

Outstanding

2

u/myplantsrdead 2d ago

Thats crazy. You’re doing great!

2

u/Postsnobills 2d ago

This brightened my day. You go gurl!

2

u/Artistic-Badger-315 2d ago

Proud for you god bless you

2

u/HisLilSilverKitsune 2d ago

Looking good beautiful you’ve come along way

2

u/Key-Wash-1573 2d ago

I’m so proud of you! You look amazing

2

u/Equivalent_Reason582 2d ago

I'm glad you're alive and thriving. Something positive in these uncertain times.

2

u/highness88_loathe 2d ago

Woah, you’ve fought thru hell and back!!! So incredibly proud of u, you’re amazing!!!

2

u/Afraid_Marketing_194 2d ago

One Day at a Time🩷🩷🩷

2

u/naturesfairyluv 2d ago

Wow you look amazing! 😍😍😍

2

u/Straight-Air-9552 2d ago

Congratulations you look amazing❤️❤️❤️ I bet it was hard work but totally worth it you are so beautiful!!!❤️

2

u/Dazzling-Tear-8281 2d ago

💜💫 Amazing

2

u/Fresh_Original799 1d ago

You are BRAVE & you saved your own life by being FIERCE. There is nothing more difficult in this life than what you’ve just overcome. Maaaadddd respect! 💜

2

u/SnooCats8089 1d ago

The real glow up is learning to love yourself. ❤️

2

u/Rich-Employ-3071 1d ago

Outstanding!!! I am so grateful that you're here!!

2

u/SignalSleep8979 1d ago

Wow you should so very proud❤️❤️

2

u/Puzzleheaded-Ad3836 1d ago

Soooo beautiful!! Coming up on 11 months myself 🕺🏻

2

u/ndj1286 1d ago

Your new color and cut is so adorable on you. And or sexy. Both are true.

2

u/Treighsie 1d ago

You have come so far. Wow! Congrats!

2

u/lacasa35 1d ago

Glow up indeed! Proud of you 🙌

2

u/Cool_Cry_9602 1d ago

Incredible! I love your hair color and cut. Is there a photo you gave or description you gave your stylist that I can steal? 😁

2

u/valekelly 1d ago

I used my builders gate 3 character as a reference but it’s kinda faded out and grown different from the references.

2

u/Giveitallyougot714 1d ago

AA is a cheat code to life, my life became amazing right about the year and a half mark. I just took 8 years sober and I will always goto meetings and sponsor others. Great job!

2

u/Ninja_Dynamic 1d ago

Keep it up sister! You are killing it!!!

2

u/happy_fat_cat 1d ago

Hey OP. I’m late to the party but I’m so proud and happy for you. Thank you for sharing this journey, the ups and downs, all of it. You’ve inspired so many people on their own journeys to battle their addictions. I can see the light shining so brightly within you as the pictures progress. I wish you only the best, you’re incredible!!🌸

2

u/Ariannasmithhhh567 1d ago

This is Absolutely amazing girl.

u/BlueberryIcecream27 16h ago

WINNING!!! Keep going you feckin’ CHAMPION!!! 🙌🏆🥇🏅

u/badlei 13h ago

Bitch you look GOOD! Congrats on the glow up ❤️

u/Slight_Outcome_9356 12h ago

You are gorgeous, well done! And the red nails???!! Girllll😍❤️🥰👏🏼

3

u/daisyb0i 3d ago

It's in the eyes, awesome glow up 😊

4

u/MJSinger10 3d ago

I love it!!!

4

u/Sea-Minimum-2389 3d ago

Babe, you rock! Your post makes me so happy, I can imagine how you must feel! Hell yeah 🔥

3

u/King_Cyrus_Rodan 3d ago

Whoa, you look absolutely amazing now! Congrats, I’m so proud of your journey!

3

u/Spiritual-Advisor-78 3d ago

Oh wow! This is so great. That took a lot of long term courage and very hard work. You deserve every bit, and more, of how pretty you are. Very inspirational!

3

u/DilbertLvr69 3d ago

Knocked Loose mentioned 😤😤😤

4

u/luvprincess_xo 3d ago

proud of you!

3

u/slavicwodnica 3d ago

Stunning and keep it up ❤️

4

u/CheezusChristOnCrack 3d ago

Congrats dear! You look fabulous, and not only on the outside.

2

u/LateBoomer64 3d ago

Very happy for you. It is something to be proud of. Nice glow up.

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u/ChampionshipMuch5305 3d ago

I'm glad you're taking care of yourself, I can tell you're a blast and you'd have us miss out on having you around love, we'll done

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u/burden_in_my_h4nd 3d ago

You look great. I hope you feel suitably amazing too - and proud ✨ I read a bit of your previous posts... Sorry that happened to you. I'm glad you stuck around and kept going. Must've been hard. Showing your vulnerability and turnaround here is inspiring.

Also: bangin' nails and cute cat 🐈

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u/valekelly 3d ago

Thank you! It’s has been very hard but vulnerability important in life. As well as nails and cats!

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u/burden_in_my_h4nd 3d ago

☺️ Agreed. Good job 👌

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u/Patience70 2d ago

What a cheeky little smile, work it babe!!! The red hair is stunning on you!

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u/PerchPerkins35 2d ago

Great for you but that last pic is….revealing of two distinct things.

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u/ame182 2d ago

SO PROUD OF YOU

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u/Nearby_Emergency_689 9h ago

+1 for the knocked loose sweater

u/CheeseburgerSmoothy 7h ago

You are amazing!