Kate Dorff: Finding Compassion Amidst Family Struggles with Alcoholism
He loved me in the only way he could.
What do you do when a loved one's battle with alcoholism turns your world upside down? In this episode of The Magdalen House Podcast, former Director of Development Kate Dorff opens up about her deeply personal journey through the turmoil of her father's alcoholism. Growing up, Kate watched her family fall apart as her father's drinking led to her parents' separation during her high school years.
This left her grappling with anger and confusion, questioning why her father couldn't just stop drinking. Kate's story is a poignant exploration of how alcoholism doesn't just affect the person drinking but ripples out to impact their entire family. Through her work with The Magdalen House and the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, Kate found a path to understanding and healing.
She shares how embracing the concept of alcoholism as a disease helped her let go of anger and find compassion for her father. One of the most striking aspects of Kate's journey is the role that family support played in her recovery. It's easy to feel helpless when a loved one is struggling with addiction, but Kate's experience underscores the power of simply being there, offering love and support.
Her story is a testament to the transformative power of the 12 steps, which provided her with a roadmap to navigate her emotions and find peace. If you or someone you care about is dealing with alcoholism, Kate's insights offer a beacon of hope. Tune in to hear how she turned her family's turmoil into a journey of compassion and recovery, and learn how understanding and support can make all the difference.