Probably my best friend and old counselor have helped me out the most along the road to sobriety.

My old counselor allowed me to continue to come to counseling even though she knew I had been drinking before sessions. When I was sober, I asked her why she put up with that and she said she knew I would go through withdrawal without drinking and she thought she would “lose me.” She kept working with me and when I was ready to quit drinking she was there for me every step of the way. Of course, she was paid, but I believe she went above and beyond what was required of her as a counselor.

My best friend also tolerated the last part of my drinking. Then, when I got sober, she talked to me on the phone every day—sometimes several times a day—she really helped me through the urges and the initial turmoil of getting sober. She continues to be one of my biggest supporters.

Both people showed a tremendous amount of compassion and patience. Neither one gave up hope in me. They were there for me day and night.