My name is Calvin Dodson, and I speak through a prosthesis. Not because I chose to—but because throat cancer took my voice box. And yet, losing my physical voice gave me something far greater: a mission to speak for those who feel voiceless.
I’m 62 years old. A two-time cancer survivor—throat and lung. A recovering alcoholic with 12 years of sobriety. A former prisoner who became a college graduate with a Bachelor of Ministry (BMin). I walk on two replaced hips, wear hearing aids in both ears, and rely on glasses to see clearly. My body is a patchwork of surgeries, scars, and replacement parts.
But I’m still here. Still standing. Still fighting. Still speaking.
My Story
For years, I wandered through the shadows—homeless, addicted, and chasing oblivion across the streets of Jacksonville and wherever I could hitch a ride. I slept on park benches, in shelters, and in places so dark I questioned whether light would ever find me again. I’ve been to prison. I’ve hit rock bottom—and discovered that even rock bottom has a basement. But grace met me there. And that’s where the rebuilding began.
Twelve years ago, at age 50, I stood at the intake desk of Sulzbacher Center with a failing hip and a desperate prayer: “God, I can’t do this. I need Your help.” That prayer changed everything. From that moment to this one, I haven’t been drunk. Not once.
I went from homeless shelter resident to college student, earning my degree while recovering from hip surgery. I went from prisoner to minister. From voiceless to having something worth saying.
My Mission
The 66 Voice exists to reach people who are:
- Broken and wondering if they can be rebuilt
- Addicted and searching for a way out
- Hurting and needing hope
- Questioning their faith and seeking honest answers
- Tired of fake testimonies and polished stories
I don’t have all the answers. I’m still figuring things out. But I know what it’s like to be at the absolute bottom—and I know that recovery is possible. Transformation is real. Second chances exist. It’s never too late.
What I Do
I write books that tell the truth—raw, honest, unfiltered truth about addiction, recovery, faith, doubt, pain, and hope. I share my story not because it’s extraordinary, but because it’s proof that ordinary broken people can survive extraordinary circumstances.
My books include:
- Seasoned: Finding Grace in the Breaking and Rebuilding — My memoir of addiction, recovery, and survival
- Don’t Let Your Past Define Your Future — Encouragement for those starting over
- Why Should I Trust God? — Honest questions about faith from a genuine seeker
I also share daily encouragement, reflections, and real talk about living a sober, purposeful life after hitting bottom.
My Why
Because someone needs to hear that:
- You’re not too far gone
- You’re not too old to start over
- You’re not too broken to be rebuilt
- Your past doesn’t have to define your future
- Sobriety is possible
- Hope is real
- God still works miracles
I’m living proof.
Connect With Me
📧 Email: the66voice@gmail.com 📚 Books: Available on Amazon 🌐 Website: the66voice.com
My voice may be mechanical, but my message is real. Your story isn’t over. Let’s keep going together.
— Calvin Dodson
Seasoned & Still Standing