Life has a way of throwing curveballs, but few have faced as many challenges as Joey Ortiz. From a painful childhood marked by abuse to surviving a life-altering hit-and-run, Joey’s story is one of resilience, grit, and ultimate triumph. In this deeply personal conversation on the Get Better Every Day podcast, Joey opens up about his journey from adversity to hope—and the lessons we can all learn from his experiences. 💪✨

---

Turning Pain into Power

Joey’s journey began in a turbulent childhood. At just five years old, he endured abuse from his father, an experience that taught him how to fight—not just physically, but mentally. This formative pain fueled his determination to excel in sports, especially football, where he pushed through injuries and became a force on the field. For Joey, football wasn’t just a game; it was an emotional outlet, a battlefield where he could channel his inner turmoil into something powerful. 🏈🔥

---

A Night That Changed Everything

At 20 years old, on the brink of athletic greatness, Joey’s life took a dramatic turn. After a night of partying, he was struck by a car going 50 mph—a hit-and-run that left him with 18 major injuries and a three-day coma. The doctors told him he’d never play football again. Joey’s response? “Watch me.”

What followed was nothing short of remarkable. Against all odds, Joey embarked on a grueling self-led rehabilitation journey. With a shattered body and an indomitable spirit, he was back on the field just five months later. His story is a testament to the power of resilience. 🚑👊

---

The Battle with Addiction

Joey’s physical recovery was only part of his story. Battling alcoholism from the age of eight, he turned to drugs in his early 20s, further complicating his life. But when his wife left him, Joey hit a breaking point. He decided to change. Reflecting on his ability to survive life’s hardest hits, he reframed his struggles and chose sobriety. He hasn’t looked back since, celebrating 16 years of sobriety this November. 🥂🚫

---

Spreading Hope Through Vulnerability

Joey’s book, Unstoppable, captures his incredible journey. Endorsed by Tim Grover, the trainer behind legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, the book serves as a source of inspiration for anyone battling their own demons. Joey’s story shows that no matter how dark life may seem, there’s always a path forward. 📚✨

His scars, both physical and emotional, have become conversation starters, sparking connections with strangers and offering hope to those in need. Joey wears these scars with honor, using them to share his story and empower others. 🕊️💡

---

Final Words of Wisdom

Joey’s message to listeners is simple yet profound: “If you’re battling something—alcohol, drugs, gambling, or anything else—know that change is possible. Stop the behavior, look at where you’ve been, and decide where you want to go.” 🛤️🌟

Joey Ortiz’s life is proof that resilience can transform pain into purpose. His story isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving against all odds. 💥🌈