Peggy Riggs

It was irrefutably the darkest days of my life. I was left broke, alone, confused, regrettably ashamed, saddened,damaged and most of all I felt like the scum of the earth underneath the ocean that the amoebas eat on, when they are literally dying for food. Every morning I had to get help to retrace the previous night's step so I could locate my shoes. And then every morning I also had to make the round of calls to apologize for behavior that I didn't even remember. Everyday was a struggle in itself.

bLike many alcoholics and addicts, I was left with nothing to my name - no money, no job, no place to live, no friends, no supportive family or support system. All I had was a minute hint of unearned dignity left and the clothes on my back. At this point I figured I might as well give rehab a try, if for nothing else than a warm bed and free food. So I did. I attended the same rehab twice in a period of about six months. However, the second time I was more open to suggestions and learning which made it easier to see what alcohol and drugs were doing to me. It was definately a success.

Today, life is different. I am not ashamed of my past nor do I wish to shut the door on it. I use my previous experiences to share with others so they may better understand what it is like to live as an alcoholic and addict. Don't get me wrong, I still have days where I struggle and wonder if I will ever survive, but atleast now I have peace in my heart and a new understanding about sober life in my heart and mind. I just want to share that with as many people as possible these days.