What it was like?

I did not start drinking young and when I did start, I wasn't a problem drinker. However, over time I turned to alcohol more and more to deal with my life's issues, anxiety and depression. Alcohol took over my life. I stopped caring about my work and I lost my job. My family quit talking to me and I developed cirrhosis by the time I was 40. I would have horrible shakes without booze. Making it through a day was pure hell.

What happened?

I had tried to quit again and again with different rehabs and my parents help, but I would last only until something upset me and back to the bottle I went. When I turned 40, I knew I had to stop for good. Something clicked and It finally sunk in that I would not have another birthday if I continued. I had to go to the worst detox I habe ever been too. It was hell. I woke up days later in the hospital. Once I came back to my mind and was safely detoxed, I went to a good outpatient rehab program and immediately started going to AA meetings. Before I was done with the IOP, I lined myself up with a great sponsor and started working steps. I also found a good therapist.

What it is like now?

One day at a time and by the grace of God, here I am two years later. I have just been given another chance at life in the form of a newly tansplanted liver. What a gift and one I couldn't have received if I hadn't been able to stay sober! Life is completely different for me and all in good ways. I know I will never take life for granted again. I have regained the trust of my family and mended many relationships. I am engaged to the love of my life. The promises of AA continue to materialize into reality. Through fellowship and step work, I remain sober.

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