- Alcohol
- Faith
- Friends & Family
submitted by: Susanne Johnson
Almost six years ago, I was one drink away from death, and that is the truth. If I had drank the drink I made, I would not be here today. Alcoholism is a terrible disease, and it takes the lives of many. I must have a purpose in this life, or I would not have survived.
I always loved to drink. I was the social butterfly. I never stopped to think of all the damage it could do or was doing to my body. In 2010 my daughter, her best friend and my husband brought me to the hospital because earlier that day my daughter asked me why my face was yellow. I thought, “Yellow? What is she talking about?” I could not see what everyone else saw. When we went to the hospital, I had no idea how much damage drinking had done to my body. I had no idea that the reason I was yellow was because all my organs were shutting down. I had no idea that I was facing a life-or-death situation. The doctor told my husband and daughter that I might not make it through the night. My mother-in-law had a priest come in and read me my last rights.
Six years later I am alive and sober through the grace of God. The doctors cannot believe I made it. They said I was a miracle because I should have died. What almost killed me made me stronger. I want to thank everybody who stuck by me, gave me support with my sobriety and still continues to give. I love you all, and I am so blessed to have you in my life. I could not do this without you.
I am tested every day. My dad’s passing was a huge test for me, but I fought so hard to be where I am that I was not going to allow the devil to take my soul again. I prayed that God would give me the strength I needed to get through this very hard time in my life, and my prayers were answered.
I want people who struggle with addiction to look at me and to know that there is hope for a better future. There is help out there if you want it. I don’t want to see anyone have to hit rock bottom like I did. Life and time are the two best teachers. Life teaches us to make good use of time, and time teaches us the value of life. 365 days are given to you. You decide what you do with them. You decide what attitude and energy you put into them. Learn from yesterday, and keep moving towards your tomorrows. Be grateful for every moment. Cherish what has been, and have faith in what will be. I get to celebrate the gift of life. What a wonderful, precious gift that is. Six years ago in January, my life changed for the better, and I am so proud to say that I love my sober life!