Brandon Turner, an iconic figure in the world of skateboarding, has not only left an indelible mark on the sport but has also embarked on a mission to uplift those battling addiction and mental health issues.
Turner’s journey in skateboarding began at a young age, earning him sponsorship at just 13 years old and international recognition for his technical prowess and tricks. However, as his fame grew, so did the challenges he faced off the skateboard.
The allure of alcohol led Turner down a troubled path, resulting in legal issues, including DUIs and incarceration. His life took a transformative turn when he embraced sobriety in 2016, realizing that skateboarding held the key to his recovery.
Beyond his personal journey, Turner was driven by a deeper purpose: to share his experiences and support others grappling with mental health and addiction. He established Westside Recovery in Pacific Beach, not only as a center for recovery but as a symbol of breaking the stigma associated with seeking help for substance abuse and mental health.
Turner’s message is clear: seeking help is an act of strength, not weakness. Through Westside Recovery, he offers a range of outpatient and residential treatment programs, complemented by activities like Pilates, surfing, and, of course, skateboarding. Skateboarding, in particular, serves as a profound metaphor for life, teaching individuals resilience through its constant cycle of failure and the determination to rise each time.
Participants in the program, which includes newcomers to skateboarding and those returning to it, describe the feeling of riding a skateboard as unmatched—a natural high that surpasses any substance. Beyond skateboarding, Turner serves as a mentor and life coach, offering support and guidance to those navigating life’s challenges.
For Turner, the act of helping others in their journey to recovery has become a profound source of purpose and passion. He emphasizes gratitude for his mentors, partners, the skateboarding community, and the trust his clients place in him to help them build better lives.
While still actively engaged in his skateboarding career, even in his 40s, Turner’s dedication to assisting others in their recovery journey has expanded his horizons and introduced him to a new community, reinforcing his commitment to empowering individuals to recognize the strength within themselves.
In addition to his work at Westside Recovery, Turner has lent his voice to raise awareness about mental health issues in the skateboarding community, emphasizing the importance of addressing and destigmatizing these challenges. His journey is not just about skateboarding but about harnessing the true power within each individual to overcome adversity and thrive.
