JD Vance Celebrates Mother's Decade of Sobriety at White House
Vice President JD Vance honored his mother, Beverly Aikins, for her 10 years of sobriety with a special celebration at the White House.
On Monday, April 7, Vice President JD Vance led a heartfelt celebration in the Roosevelt Room of the White House to mark his mother Beverly Aikins’ 10-year journey to sobriety. Aikins, aged 64, has overcome a long battle with addiction, which included struggles with prescription medication and heroin, as detailed in Vance’s bestselling book, ‘Hillbilly Elegy.’
The event was attended by close friends and family, showcasing the support system that has been crucial to Aikins’ recovery. During the celebration, Vance expressed immense pride in his mother’s achievement, emphasizing her transformation into a reliable figure once again. ‘That’s what addiction took away. But that’s what recovery has given back, is that you are a person that others can rely on,’ he stated, reflecting on the impact of her recovery.
Vance, who has openly discussed the effects of his mother’s addiction on his life during his political campaigns, presented Aikins with one of the president’s ‘challenge coins’ as a symbol of her milestone. Aikins now works at Seacrest Recovery Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she continues to support others facing similar challenges.
In a message to those struggling with addiction, Aikins shared her hope and encouragement, stating, ‘I want people who are struggling with addiction or who have family members who are struggling with addiction to know that recovery is possible, and you get back so much more from recovery than you ever think you can get back.’ Her advice to those in need is to seek help and persevere, as recovery, though challenging, is profoundly rewarding.