i was told by and old timer that once in the full blown stages of alcoholism... there are only three places to end up... penal/mental institutions... the cemetery... or AA...
many alcoholics would rather die than go to AA... none like to think of their drinking as being that bad...
i've also heard a saying that some have to die that other might live... (not sure why that should have to be... but it seems to hold to some kind of truth)
all i can say is...
"it's a wonderful day in the neighborhood"... (and getting better all the time)...
i am no longer the slave of alcoholism... and thank "GOD" i do not have to depend on a chemical of any kind (be it herbal or pharmaceutical) to keep me sober...