To the editor: Due to Paul Thornton for an sincere, simple account of his restoration from alcoholism. It have to be a consolation to others who’ve walked the identical journey to sobriety. (“‘It’s 5 o’clock someplace’ isn’t any joke should you’ve seen alcohol’s toll,” Opinion, Nov. 30)
Sadly, my son didn’t have the identical resolve or stamina and succumbed to the illness at age 52, not the chef at our household Thanksgiving and Christmas household dinners. We miss him dearly.
Blessings to all households this vacation season who will rejoice relationships and assist members who’ve succeeded or are struggling to beat their dependancy.
Lenore Navarro Dowling, Los Angeles
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To the editor: This time of yr at my weekly 12-step group assembly, we warn of the “Bermuda Triangle” — that trifecta of holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Yr’s.
The vacations is usually a demanding time even for “normies,” or individuals who can drink or use with out changing into addicted. Many are reminded of the previous holidays they wrecked due to their alcoholism, holidays they spent alone, or ones the place they drank to slot in and really feel accepted.
I shall be celebrating 10 years of restoration on Jan. 7 and am fairly assured of my means and want to stay sober. However, for all of the newcomers on the market and folks struggling this time of yr, go to a gathering, be of service to somebody and be grateful that you’re sober immediately.
Kathy Hicker, Los Angeles
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To the editor: In 37 years of sobriety, having grown up in a household bedeviled by alcoholism, I rarely have been questioned by brothers, sisters or different family members about my ingesting or the way it affected me.
First rule in alcoholic households: Don’t speak. Your job is to maintain the key.
John Medici, Burbank
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To the editor: Thornton’s piece is spot on in demonstrating how alcohol use permeates our tradition. It begs for statistics to show the prevalence of demise and incapacity from alcohol.
The Nationwide Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism estimates that 178,000 Individuals die of extreme alcohol use every year. Compared, opiate overdose deaths have been excessive however have stayed beneath 100,000 in recent times.
I’d guess just about all your readers are touched by this abuse.
Dennis Noesen, San Pedro
