SNOW TV NEWS DESK
A Kenyan man, Elias Wanderi, has opened up about his painful journey through alcohol addiction, sharing striking before-and-after photographs to remind others that recovery is possible, even after hitting rock bottom.
The heartbreaking throwback pictures show Elias lying helplessly on the street in a drunken state, offering a glimpse into the devastating impact alcohol addiction once had on his life. His recent photographs, however, tell a remarkably different story, highlighting the transformation he has undergone since beginning his recovery journey.
While his transformation has inspired many, some social media users have questioned why he continues to share the disturbing images of his past, especially now that he appears to have turned his life around.
But Elias says there is a deeper reason behind his decision. According to him, confronting his past is an important part of staying sober, as forgetting the damage alcohol caused could make him more vulnerable to relapse.
In a heartfelt message, he explained that addiction is not something that simply disappears after recovery. Rather, it is a constant battle that requires awareness, discipline, and a conscious effort to stay on the right path.
“There are some people who tell me to stop posting these first two pictures because I’m now fine. Addiction doesn’t retire; it waits to return,” he wrote.
He further explained that revisiting the difficult moments of his past reminds him of the suffering he endured and why he must remain committed to sobriety.
“Imagine what would happen if I forget how terrible it was and the suffering I experienced during that time? I won’t see any harm in alcohol, and chances of relapsing will be high,” he added.
Beyond serving as a personal reminder, Elias hopes his pictures and story will encourage people struggling with alcohol addiction not to give up on themselves. He believes that sharing the reality of his experience could also give hope to someone who feels trapped in a similar situation.
Describing his journey as an ongoing process rather than a finished chapter, he concluded:
“Same person, different times. Recovery is possible!! I’m still recovering from alcoholism, living a day at a time.”
His story is a powerful reminder that recovery is not always a straight path, and overcoming addiction does not mean the struggle is automatically over. Sometimes, acknowledging where you have been is just as important as celebrating how far you have come.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
Email: snowmediaconnect@gmail.com
