Michael Oher’s mother, Denise Oher, struggled with addiction to alcohol and crack cocaine, which led to a difficult family environment and her inability to care for her children.
Denise Oher faced numerous challenges throughout her life, including addiction and poverty, which had a profound impact on her family. She was born in 1958 and had a total of 12 children, of whom Michael Oher was one of the youngest. Her struggles with addiction meant that her children often lacked stability and proper care. As a result, Michael and his siblings frequently moved in and out of foster homes and schools.
The environment in which Michael grew up was fraught with the dangers associated with his mother’s addiction, such as exposure to criminal activity and neglect. Despite her love for her children, Denise’s addiction often took precedence, leaving her unable to provide the support and nurturing they needed.
Michael’s life, however, took a turn for the better when he was taken in by Leigh Anne and Sean Tuohy, a well-off couple who eventually adopted him. They provided him with the stability and support he needed to thrive, both academically and athletically. Michael went on to become a successful football player, his story famously depicted in the book and film “The Blind Side.”
Denise’s life also saw positive changes; she received treatment for her addiction and worked towards rebuilding her life and relationships with her children. Despite the hardships, the story of Michael Oher and his mother is one of resilience and the possibility of redemption and transformation.