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Taking Steps and Making Choices

I was barely 17 and I was an alcoholic.  My life revolved around drinking.  I hit the ground running at 14 and I came to a screeching halt when my mom told me I needed help.  I didn't fight her because I knew she was right.  I missed most of the second half of my senior year, but I was in recovery and learning to live for the first time. 

I left a lot of damage in my wake and I lost a lot of time.  Alcoholism runs in my family, so I grew up around addiction.  I also learned that I suffered from mental illness -- Panic Disorder -- but I couldn't talk about that during that time. 

My experience changed me for the better and 35 years later, I'm still a work in progress.  Was it hard?   Absolutely, but I learned to dig deep and I learned to accept that I had a disease.  This journey has taught me that I have choices but my higher power is my guide.  Of course, my story is more detailed, but remember:  Build a network and never forget hope; there is always hope.  Help others, give of yourself and share. 

Victoria Simiola
Recovery Date: January 26, 1983
Hamden, CT

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