Dan, Massachusetts

UPDATE: 3/22/06
Dear Rhonda, I can’t believe it’s been 6 years since you treated me for alcohol addiction. I don’t know what more I can say that I haven’t said in my previous 5 annual letters. Thing are going well, though that sounds strange to me. I don’t think of not drinking as “going well”, I don’t think of not drinking at all. It’s my life, it’s normal for me not to drink. I don’t think about it. I vividly remember sitting in the waiting room reading some of the testimonials and thinking “If this could only work for me…”. I believe it did! You did! Thank you! Back then I couldn’t imagine 6 weeks, never mind 6 years. I have no doubt you saved me.

I’m continually reminded of the impact you had on me and the potential paths my life may have taken without you. Recently I ran into an acquaintance that I worked with on another construction project a few years ago. He asked if I’d be able to give him a ride home at the end of the day. I agreed and we talked a bit on the ride home. As it turns out he recently got out of jail from his 4th DUI conviction and his license is gone for the next 10 years. Although I never got into serious trouble, have never gotten arrested, I know the potential I had. I never missed work because of drinking, though I would go in hung over. I drank every day to the point of double vision.

I started drinking when I was 13 years old and drank hard for almost 30 years. Mom & Dad were both severe alcoholics, so I know the possibilities. Alcohol was my priority. I hate to imagine where I’d be today had you not helped me 6 years ago. As I’ve said in years past, please give my phone number to anyone who would like to talk. My cell phone is: (508)259-5554. That is the best way to get in touch. Please feel free to leave my number in this letter for anyone who would like to call. This has been my number for the past 10 years and should be for the foreseeable future.

Love to you and Barry