Elton John is 29 years sober.
On Monday that superstar, 72, took to Instagram and Twitter to highlight the accomplishment.
Sharing a photo of his Alcoholics Anonymous coin, the caption wrote.
“Twenty-nine years ago today, I was a broken man,” he wrote. “I finally summoned up the courage to say 3 words that would change my life: ‘I need help.’ “
“Thank you to all the selfless people who have helped me on my journey through sobriety,” John continued. “I am eternally grateful.”
He signed the post: “Elton xo.”
An Inspiration To The World
Many fans have congratulated the star on his incredible milestone, including actress Elizabeth Hurley and Scottish singer/songwriter, Lulu. Others commented: “You are an inspiration to the world in so many ways. Thank you for sharing. You are an awesome person. Your 29 years of sobriety and your courage and strength set an example for others.”
Someone else wrote, “Great work Elton! You are such an inspiration and a great great man. Very talented. So congratulations on your 29th year!!”
Another said: “It takes great courage to admit to yourself that you need to make changes, and even greater courage to say it out loud and then follow through on those necessary actions. Congratulations Elton!”
A fourth added: “We’re all so proud of you, Rocketman.”
“I Am A Survivor”
The singers struggles with drug and alcohol addiction have been notable on a public platform, most recently in the biopic “Rocketman.” In May, John reflected on his addictions and said he had “lost touch” with the life he led before launching into superstardom.
“The life I was leading — flying on the Starship, living in beautiful houses, buying things left, right and center — it was not a normal life, not the sort of life I came from anyway,” John told Variety
“There were times I was having chest pains or staying up for three days at a time,” John added. “I used to have spasms and be found on the floor and they’d put me back to bed and half an hour later I’d be doing the same. It’s crazy.”
A friend of his who lost his battle with AIDS in 1990 ultimately triggered John to get help. He eventually launched the Elton John AIDS Foundation, which has raised more than $400 million to fight the virus.
The musician — who now has two children with husband — now admits he’s lucky to have survived his addiction.
“I am a survivor,” John said. “I’ve survived a lot of things. Life is full of pitfalls, even when you’re sober. I can deal with them now because I don’t have to run away and hide.”
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