Michael Bugary – When Life Throws You a Curveball: The Distance Between Ego and Love
Michael Bugary – Motivational Speaker & Recovery Advocate
My name is Michael Bugary, and I’m a motivational speaker and former Division I athlete. I played baseball at the University of California, Berkeley, and in 2009, after my junior season, the Boston Red Sox selected me in the MLB draft.
During my second professional season, I suffered a severe arm injury that ended my career. Losing baseball—my identity and my dream—sent me into a deep depression and addiction. I chased the feeling of success with drugs and denial.
In the middle of my addiction, doctors diagnosed me with a large brain tumor. The illness stripped away my physical strength and confidence. I felt trapped in pain and shame, and my addiction only grew stronger.
My turning point came when I met Lingo, my golden rescue dog. He became my lifeline. Lingo reminded me that love, honesty, and responsibility could rebuild what addiction had destroyed. Together, we began my recovery—one honest step at a time.
As I got sober, I stopped all medications, drugs, and alcohol. I went back to school and immersed myself in the recovery community. I discovered purpose in sharing my story. Speaking about my experiences helps others—and it helps me stay grounded.
Today, I speak to schools, athletes, and recovery groups about addiction, resilience, and healing after loss. I also visit hospitals with Lingo as part of the University Hospitals PetPals program in Cleveland. We bring hope to patients and advocate for therapy dog programs across the country.
I now live on a 100-acre nature preserve in Northeast Ohio. In the quiet of the woods, I’ve found peace and perspective. I spend my time hiking, working with my dogs, and connecting with people who are searching for hope.
My mission is simple: to remind others that no matter how far you fall, you can rise again. Recovery is real. Change is possible. And life—when you let go of ego and live with love—is beautiful.
