Guest Speaker – Michael Blanchard

Michael Blanchard is an acclaimed photographer, philanthropist, writer, and gallery owner on Martha’s Vineyard.  Michael’s unexpected journey occurred after 4 DUI’s, a suicide attempt and over 3 months in both a psychiatric hospital and rehab facility.  After reaching a deep bottom, Michael transformed himself into an artist and writer from his previous life as the COO of a large company. His books “Through A Sober Lens” and “Fighting for My Life” have both won prestigious Ben Franklin Awards including “most inspirational story’ and “best art and photography”. Through the selling of books and calendars, he has raised over $40,000 for addiction treatment over the last 6 years.  He has been called “The Ansel Adams of Recovery Photography” by Recovery Today Magazine.  He has a MA in Psychology with a focus on substance use disorder and has pioneered the use of imagery and the arts in healing.  Mike dedicates his life to helping addicts and alcoholics seek help. His podcasts, national radio shows and meetings with parents and families foster hope and understanding in dealing with addiction and mental health disease.

https://www.blanchardphotomv.com/