In honor of Red Ribbon Week, Mr. Rakers asked Frank Colston to speak to us about his path to sobriety, and everything he has lost and gained due to his addiction. On Monday, October 21, Frank came to Okawville High School to talk to 7th-12th grade students about his life story.
Frank Colston was a very accomplished baseball player in his earlier years. He grew up playing baseball in the streets of East St. Louis, and later at his farmhouse in Germantown. He explained that he was a great asset to every team he joined. In 1987, his baseball team, the Salt Lake Trappers, won 29 consecutive games in one season. The bat that he used that season now sits in the MLB Hall of Fame. He was later signed to the Seatle Mariners but lost his contract due to his substance abuse.
Now, Frank is 14 years sober and happier than ever. He spoke to students about how sobriety has completely turned his life around for the better. Through his sobriety, he has learned to love everyone and have peace with everything in his life. Even though he has a rocky past, he still owns a well-known bar in Beckemeyer, called “Frank’s Bar.” He enjoys his days of cooking amazing burgers and “dirty fries.” He also hopes that everyone from Okawville comes to visit him sometime! His story can inspire all of us, and remind us that we can overcome anything with love and effort.
