I want to tell you a story about a woman I met several months ago. She had just been diagnosed with Hepatitis C.  As you can imagine, she was shocked. She had no idea she was seriously ill.

This woman is a very successful rep for a large corporation, who has achieved much in her career. Travel is part of her job, as well as working conventions, trade shows, and special events where alcohol is widely available. Like many in her profession, she would never say no to a drink and this for different reasons such as fear of not fitting etc.

Nevertheless, she assured me she is NOT an alcoholic (her word). Alcohol has never been a problem for her. To prove this, she can stop drinking for days at a time and she for sure never drinks during the day. She has suffered no severe consequences from her drinking, and she’s never had a DUI. She is very successful in her career. She owns a beautiful home.  She drives a dream car.  

She’s definitely in control, right?

However, to receive treatment for Hep C, she must remain sober for six months. Okay, that might be a problem. And that’s why she came to Heal@Home. 

To achieve this goal, she decided to participate in our at-home alcohol program. The session with the addiction counselor was a revelation for her. Much to her surprise, she learned her life was actually out of control, and she had been using alcohol to cope with lots of stress.

Week after week, I witnessed her incredible transformation. She stopped drinking to enter Hep C treatment and completed it successfully. She redesigned every aspect of her life, placing wellness and self-care at the top of her priority list.   

A few days ago I got a call from her. She had just been released from ICU after experiencing total liver failure. Her doctor feels she addressed her alcohol problem too late. The damage to her liver is extensive.  

She’s not eligible for a transplant because she hasn’t been sober long enough. But even though the prognosis isn’t encouraging, she’s not giving up. She’s a fighter, and now she’s fighting for her life.

I wish I could say this is the first time I‘ve seen serious damage from a toxic lifestyle. Sadly, it isn’t. Choosing wellness is so important. Choose wisely. The sooner the better!

If you’d like to talk about your alcohol use, schedule a free 15-minute call with me. I’m always happy to listen!