Ken Rideout, a former commodity trader, hid his opioid addiction for years before confessing to his wife and turning his life around to become a top marathon runner in his 50s. His journey began in 1998 when a podiatrist prescribed Percocet for ankle pain, which also alleviated his anxiety. Rideout soon became dependent, altering prescriptions and seeking more pills.
After moving to London in 1999, he suffered severe withdrawal and obtained OxyContin through his brother. He tried Narcotics Anonymous and Subutex but struggled to quit. At his worst, he took 20 to 30 oxycodone tablets daily. Despite marrying Shelby in 2007, his addiction continued.
In August 2010, the couple learned of an adoption opportunity for a baby girl in Ethiopia. Determined to be a sober father, Rideout entered outpatient detox 30 days before traveling. He received medication including Vivitrol and endured intense withdrawal symptoms. He eventually achieved sobriety and took up running, completing marathons and ultramarathons.
Rideout's memoir, Everything You Want Is on the Other Side of Hard, details his recovery. He now speaks about addiction and runs to maintain his health. His story highlights the challenges of opioid dependence and the possibility of transformation.
