My story is one of incomprehensible demoralization followed by grace, hope, and love. I know...that sounds like a mouthful of nonsense followed by a sappy sermon...unless of course, you've been there. Then you know where I'm coming from.

My high school and college years were spent frequently partying. I discovered alcohol early on and enjoyed the confidence and boldness it gave me. In those days, I managed to make good grades and not get into too much trouble while continuing to drink. Pharmacy school was much the same. Drinking was as common as pepperoni pizza amongst the students and I was always right there in the middle of it.

Fast forward to 1996 when I graduated pharmacy school. Almost immediately I discovered my beloved hydrocodone. It was an instant love affair. The stresses of daily pharmacy practice were immediately stilled. Filled with opiate-induced agape love, I floated around the pharmacy a new man. Within months, my marriage was crumbling, my job was suffering, and the cops were investigating me. Eventually it all caught up with me and I was arrested, jailed, and indicted. One big fat miracle later, I was released with probation.

Over the next 2 and 1/2 years I continued to drink and use prescription drugs until, once again, I was arrested. This time something changed. I became willing to change during this visit to the jail. I said outloud, "I'm a drug-addict and an alcoholic and I don't have to keep living this way."

That was October of 2000 and I haven't found it necessary to use or drink since. My life is full and real today. I live my life instead of simply surviving it day to day. I have immense gratitude for the life I live. God has given me a second chance on life.

My story in full can be read in my memoir: Incomprehensible Demoralization- An Addict Pharmacist's Journey to Recovery. I hope you will check it out and let me know what you think.