Founder's Story: How Pokemon Saved my Life

In 2018, I bought my first Pokémon card in years. At the time, it felt like a random indulgence—a small spark of nostalgia in an otherwise ordinary day. But looking back, I realize it was so much more. That single card marked the beginning of a journey that would help me reclaim my life during one of its darkest chapters.

Shortly after graduating college, a life-altering illness turned everything upside down. For years, I couldn’t hold a job or even leave my bed. Pain consumed me, making even simple joys like watching TV impossible. My weight dropped to a dangerous 119 pounds (I’m 5’11”), and medical debt piled up as my parents did everything they could to support me. At one point, a failed medical procedure nearly killed me—a moment that still feels surreal to recount.

That brush with death brought a strange clarity: life is fleeting, fragile, and ultimately, what we make of it. I realized that even if living meant pushing through pain and exhaustion, it was worth trying. Not out of optimism, but out of a quiet defiance against the hand I’d been dealt.

So, I started small.

One day, while revisiting old shows for comfort, I stumbled on Pokémon: Sun & Moon. Nostalgia pulled me in, and a character named Rockruff stole my heart. Maybe it was because I’ve always loved dogs (shoutout to my own pup, Moses), or because my last name means “wolf” in Hungarian. When I saw Rockruff evolve into Lycanroc—and discovered its shiny blue form—I was hooked.

That small spark led to so much more. I started playing Ultra Sun, watching Pokémon YouTube videos, and reconnecting with old favorites like Mew and Giratina. Then I visited Frank & Son Collectible Show in Southern California, sold my childhood Yu-Gi-Oh! collection, and bought my first Rainbow Rare Charizard. Collecting quickly became a passion. It gave me something to focus on, something to look forward to.

Around the same time, I rediscovered Pokémon GO.

What started as a casual way to pass the time became a lifeline. On days when getting out of bed felt impossible, Pokémon GO gave me a reason to try. I set a goal to reach Level 50, and working toward that goal gave me purpose. It wasn’t just about the game—it was about proving to myself that progress, no matter how small, was still possible. When I finally hit Level 50, it wasn’t just an in-game milestone. It was a reminder that even in the hardest times, I could accomplish something meaningful.

Pokémon didn’t just distract me; it motivated me.

As I shared my love for the hobby online, I discovered a global community that welcomed me with open arms. I met incredible people—some of whom are now close friends—and found joy in connecting with others who shared my passion. Collecting became more than a hobby. It became a way to re-engage with life.

Eventually, I began to dream of turning that passion into something bigger. Earlier this year, I started a small business, Lonewolf Collectibles. It’s still a work in progress, and I’m learning as I go, but I’m proud of what I’ve built so far. These days, I sell cards at conventions, share my collection online, and explore new ways to connect with others through the hobby. It’s far from perfect, but it’s mine—and that means everything.

Pokémon didn’t just save my life—it gave me a reason to live it fully.

It reminded me who I am and what I love. It gave me purpose and helped me find joy, even through pain. Life still has its challenges, and I don’t have everything figured out, but I’m endlessly grateful for where I am today.

-Drew Farkash, founder of Lonewolf Collectibles