Addiction recovery stories: Sammy Gilligan in conversation with Lisa Ogilvie

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine recovery through lived experience. It is part of a series that explores candid accounts of addiction and recovery to identify important components in the recovery process. Design/methodology/approach The G-CHIME model comprises six elements important to addiction recovery (Growth, Connectedness, Hope, Identity, Meaning in life and Empowerment). It provides a standard against which to consider addiction recovery. It has been used in this series, as well as in the design of interventions that improve well-being and strengthen recovery. In this paper, a first-hand account is presented, followed by a semi-structured e-interview with the author of the account. Narrative analysis is used to explore the account and interview through the G-CHIME model. Findings This paper shows that addiction recovery is a remarkable process that can be explained using the G-CHIME model. The significance of each component in the model is apparent from the account and e-interview presented. Originality/value Each account of recovery in this series is unique, and as yet, untold.