Medford, Oregon Softball Player Overcomes 20 Years of Addiction and Jail, Reclaims His Daughter, and Builds a Life of Sobriety
Eric Siebold proves it's never too late to reclaim your life.
January 3, 2026
Last updated by Reshma on December 30, 2026
In Medford, Oregon, Eric Siebold stands as a beacon of hope for those battling addiction within a community of outdoor enthusiasts and sports lovers.
After enduring twenty years of methamphetamine dependency, gang ties, and multiple incarcerations, Eric now flourishes as a devoted father, competitive softball player, and recovery advocate.
Achieving four years of sobriety represents more than reaching rock bottom—it demonstrates the transformative impact of a pivotal moment steering him toward renewal.
Eric describes his arrest four years prior not as defeat but as salvation.
His path to addiction began years earlier, creating a life defined by disorder and hardship.
For two decades, Oregon's correctional system held him amid drug abuse, criminal activity, and parole violations.
During solitary confinement at Snake River Correctional Institution, an unexpected call from the Department of Human Services changed everything.
Learning his daughter faced removal due to abuse and neglect, Eric felt overwhelming rage dissolve into calm. He ended the call declaring, "I'm fucking done!" vowing never to abandon his child again.
This parental awakening sparked radical change. Within prison walls, Eric requested entry into Oregon State Correctional Institution's A/D treatment program via a "kite."
He severed gang connections by sending formal letters, accepting potential retaliation. Upon arrival at OSCI, he defended his decision, earning respect that allowed peaceful coexistence with former associates.
Successful enrollment in treatment enabled video visits with his daughter, strengthening their bond despite physical separation.
Post-release, Eric systematically rebuilt his life. He reconnected with Tonya Michelle West through a new Facebook account, securing support for setting and achieving milestones: custody restoration, licensing, vehicle acquisition.
Today, his daughter resides with him permanently—a stark contrast to previous instability. Free from parole for two decades, Eric enjoys simple pleasures: attentive fatherhood, genuine friendships, and participation in southern Oregon's thriving amateur softball scene.
Medford's softball community, featuring events like the annual "Guns & Hoses" charity tournament, provides essential structure supporting his recovery.
Playing for Medford and Southern Oregon teams channels Eric's energy into positive competition, offering camaraderie and renewed purpose.
His transformation resonates locally, inspiring supportive networks including friends like Ian Rowbottom and Lashawnda Reynolds whose heartfelt messages highlight both humor and admiration in his journey.
While acknowledging imperfection, Eric remains committed to continuous self-improvement. His aspiration to help others escape addiction grows stronger daily.
With organizations like ROC Recovery Center addressing regional substance abuse challenges, Eric prepares to share insights guiding others toward recovery doors.
"No one else has to die!" Eric embodies hope proving change remains possible regardless of past circumstances.
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Comments SectionLeave Your FeedbackComment:
<em>I'm proud of you, man. Like legit proud...</em>" - Ian Rowbottom
<em>Eric I am so beyond proud of you dude...</em>" - Lashawnda Reynolds
<em>Bro your turn around is one of the best testimonials I've heard...</em>" - Josh Stuber
These exchanges capture authentic relationships balancing playful teasing about Raiders loyalty with profound respect for resilience.
Although imperfect, Eric continues daily growth while pursuing meaningful contribution helping others break free from addiction cycles.
Medford's recovery resources like ROC Recovery Center enable community members like Eric to offer guidance toward healing pathways.
His experience inspires many facing similar obstacles throughout Oregon where programs prioritize family unity and communal encouragement.
<em>No one else has to die!</em>
