After drinking for such an extended period, the drinking was coming to an end, and so was my life. I was given four months to live, I was removed from society and placed into a rehab. From this moment I knew the game was up. I found the strength to reach out and decided to get help which would go on to save my life and stop my family and children suffering. Alcoholism doesn’t just affect the drinker but our loved ones who go through the traumatic experience with us. Through alcoholism, I was surviving only to drink, not seeing a way out; I caused chaos and destruction. However, there is a way out if you want it bad enough.

Today is another story, and life is fantastic and different. I’ve met some incredible people through the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous, I’ve reconnected with my faith finding a god of my understanding. The family who once wanted nothing to do with me and would have kicked me onto the streets are back in my life, and I’ve gained their trust. I’m stronger than I’ve ever been and loving life, I have immense gratitude for waking up every morning sober, which I thought would never be possible.

When I first went to the Alcoholics Anonymous, I was told “don’t pick up the first drink,” and “reach out for help”. Simple directions like this helped me change my life, and it can be the same for you. Someone will be there to listen and carry you through your darkest and most difficult moments. Just have the willingness to begin on the journey to put down the devil I knew as alcohol.