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Herculaneum native Shawn Swindel’s life changed forever after a friend of his overdosed at a party in 2014. For providing the controlled substance that led to his friend's death, Shawn was sent to prison in 2016. 

After serving four years, Shawn was released. He got a job and was referred to Chestnut Health Systems™ in Hillsboro, MO by his parole officer for his recovery journey. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Shawn lost his job and began facing challenges. Struggling to cope, he made choices that led to a parole violation and was sent back to prison before he had the chance to start the program. 

That second incarceration, though only a year, became a turning point for Shawn. He intentionally practiced traits he wanted to emulate in everyday moments, using every interaction as an opportunity to grow. Fitness became a crucial part of Shawn’s recovery. “Fitness teaches diligence, persistence, and patience,” said Swindel. “It helped me cultivate a new routine and gave me something to focus on.” 

In 2022, Shawn was released from prison and went back to Chestnut to officially start his rehabilitation.  

“I never lost touch with those at Chestnut,” said Swindel. “They were waiting for me to come home so I could start the program.” Shawn enrolled in Chestnut’s outpatient therapy program called Project Access, Chestnut’s first service offered in Missouri. He received Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) during his recovery, with Chestnut covering the cost of his medication until he was able to get insurance. 

Over time, Shawn began to rebuild his life with the help of those around him. He learned how to be content with himself and set boundaries, including learning how to say no and prioritize his well-being.  

Today, Shawn is a certified personal trainer. He balances part-time construction work while actively building his fitness brand. One of the most meaningful aspects of his work is mentoring. Shawn openly shares his story with young men who are at critical points in their lives. “Each week I watch them grow physically and feel better about themselves,” said Swindel. 

When asked if someone’s past disqualifies them, Shawn had the perfect answer: “You have to find a way to let that narrative go. I told myself whatever I needed to combat the negativity I was telling myself.” 

Shawn urges anyone who is struggling to find support. “All the stuff that we feel separates us from others, and the reasons we think we’re unable to connect with other people are really things that everyone goes through. People think recovery is just not doing drugs, but that’s the furthest thing from the truth. Half of the battle is learning to be comfortable in your skin.” 

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, please call Chestnut at 888.924.3786 or request an appointment online to begin your recovery journey. To learn how you can make an impact in someone’s life, visit chestnut.org/giving.