I started doin' drugs and drinkin' at 16. Although I tried about every drug, ALCOHOL got the best of me. At 18, I was a full blown alcoholic. It seemed like I was gettin' arrested for drinkin, every other month. I drank anytime I could get my hands on it. Sometimes from sun up to sun down. Every relationship I've ever had has ended because of my problems with alcohol, including losing my highschool sweetheart (7years together)?and mother of my daughter.

Oct. 4th 2012, I started drinkin' at around 11am. I was gettin' drunk with a buddy, everything was okay...until he dropped me off at my house at midnight, and I was left alone. I guess that night, I just didn't want to be alone. I called everyone I had in my phone to let them know how I felt( mostly negative). I then went to my roomates room, and got his rifle (he was at work). I grabbed two shells...sat on the couch and loaded the gun. I was crying, just really unstable. I called a friend of mine, who was recently sober and struggling with alcohol. Although I didn't tell him to come over, he came.

He talked to me for what seemed to be 4 hours. I imagine that's what you call rock bottom. My friend told me, and I'll never forget it..." If you're going to kill yourself...just do it...but I came here to help you". . . Apparently, that "tough" love worked...because I woke up the next morning.

I realized when I woke up that I had crossed the line. I had taken my addiction to a level that could have been very tragic. That was 6 months ago...and I haven't touched alcohol. My life, my family, my friends, EVERYONE that I love, mean more to me than any drug out there. I didn't need AA or NA...I moved 4 hours away from my hometown, where NO ONE knew me. I could start over, maybe be who I want to be. I feel good, I look better than ever...and everyone that knows me is SO proud

If you are struggling with addiction...I will tell you...the smiles...that happiness...and the love from everyone around you, is a satisfaction that NO HIGH will ever give you. You have to be ready to do it for yourself though. It's a long road...but you never give up.

Addiction is so hard to overcome. With love and support...you can be writting a story like this. Find your happiness. Set little goals, reach them, and set more. You're a better person sober. You can do it.