“When I first came to Affinity Lodge I was in a state of despair. I was dependant on alcohol, my life had spiralled out of control, and I knew my addiction was affecting my three children and husband. Three weeks into working with John and Jane my life has been saved, literally. After gaining new knowledge and information from this programme I have managed to gain a completely new existence. I have been given a second chance that does not include drink anymore. I have life in me again and can look forward to a happy future for myself, my children, and my husband. I can see a different reality now, that I just couldn’t before. I am forever grateful to John and Jane and Affinity Lodge, for getting me on the path of recovery.”
“My name is Sharon. I have had the disease, (alcoholism), for a long time. I stopped drinking two years ago, which still feels just like a few days ago. What I have come to realise is that I will never be cured from this disease, but I can keep it at bay using the prescription. Of course I forget to use the prescription from time to time. Well that’s when the demons start playing with my mind. Fortunately, I learnt how to fight with them by telling them to shut up, and f’ off, etc. However, it is not easy, as part of you says, ‘take that old route’, which can happen without blinking an eyelid, and you have to fight to stay away from that route. In this day and age who does not suffer from stress, anxiety, panic or fear etc., and in those situations I have had to be mindful, and find ways to deal with it rather than look for quick solution — the ‘bottle’. My learning has come from my angels (John and Jane). I could not have come this far without their input and John’s prescrption. I have to keep myself busy, like at present I am participating in a holistic massage course. Meditation is very important as I can feel at peace, although I do not do this as often as I could. MANY THANKS TO MY ANGELS (JOHN AND JANE).”
“I was addicted to methadone for 16 years, and despite regular enquiries was told it was virtually impossible to enter into a rehab, due to waiting lists and lack of resources. Determined not to be on methadone or alcohol forever I approached Affinity Lodge myself. After years of feeling inadequate I began to see myself in a different light. Totally new concepts of addiction as a disease which I could learn to manage, were presented to me with simplicity and care, giving me the hope I needed to change my life around. Emotional and individual care made me feel worthy inside to embrace life. The spiritual side of ‘The Prescription’ is so helpful to me, together with all the other tools, I’ve learnt to manage this disease of stress. Life is life, but I’ve learnt as the book says, to ‘Live in the world but not of it’. Things aren’t always conducive to recovery in the real world but I’ve found inner strength and peace. I feel content and happier than I have done for many, many years. Discovering new aspects of myself has led me to producing works of art for my local social services. I quite simply enjoy daily life now.”
Me and drink are a huge disaster,
Whatever you can drink, I can drink faster.
In the beginning life was fun and carefree,
but in the end ‘it’ got hold of me.
Hectic and messy my life was shambolic,
confused and upset “was I an alcoholic?”
“Go on Emma, have another drink!”
It was easier that way. Then I wouldn’t have to think.
But deep down inside I wanted to find peace.
I didn’t want to use drink to find release.
“What was wrong with me?”
Did I need a shrink?…
No… All I needed to to was to give up the drink!
A willingness to change was the ‘key’ I needed,
to find the authentic me.
So I made a decision to change for good.
Was unsure at first, didn’t know if I could.
But as time went on my confidence grew,
I had inner strength and determination that I never knew.
Now six months down the line, that ‘old’ me has gone.
With thanks to my good friends Jane and John.
“For years I felt I was going insane, irrational thinking, foggy mind, difficulty coping with normal daily activities. I visited counsellor after counsellor, therapist after therapist… each and everyone diagnosing the anxiety… yet I still drank alcohol and continued my substance abuse. After meeting John and Jane, the underlying issue was addressed that no other person had discovered… the real problem was the drink. With their guidance and support, I am now well on my way with recovery. Any set backs with anxiety, they are always available to talk and provide support and care. I have been made to feel part of the family, and with their help I know my own recovery will go from strength to strength. My life is now brighter and happier than at anytime during ‘the drinking years’.”
“Treatment after treatment, with no outcome or explanation of what the real cause was to me needing a drink, and finally I found the Affinity Lodge programme. Discovering the truth of my disease, I now understand what was driving me to need a drink. I no longer pass the buck or blame everything, and manage my own disease on a daily basis. My life is now changed. I now know I have a ‘disease that tells me it’s not a disease’. And I have the disease when I am sober. How’s that for relief, thanks to all at Affinity Lodge.”
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