Doug's Journey: From Rock Bottom to 20 Years Sober
Episode Overview
Doug shares his journey from a chaotic Valentine's Day to 20 years sober. He emphasises the importance of welcoming 'returnees' without judgment. Service work played a crucial role in Doug's recovery. Sobriety has allowed Doug to fully appreciate moments with his young daughter. The episode highlights the transformative power of the AA program.
One of the most beautiful things I received from Alcoholics Anonymous is the ability to be in the moment.
In this heartwarming episode of AA Grapevine's Podcast, you'll hear Doug from Long Island share his inspiring journey from the depths of alcoholism to celebrating 20 years of sobriety. Doug, whose story is featured in the August issue of Grapevine magazine, sits down with hosts Sam and Alice to recount the pivotal moments that led him to Alcoholics Anonymous.
From a chaotic Valentine's Day to his first meeting at the Salvation Army, Doug's story is a testament to the transformative power of the AA program and the support of its community. Doug opens up about the challenges he faced balancing work, family, and his commitment to staying sober. He also reflects on the concept of 'returnees'—those who leave the program and come back—and how important it is to welcome them without judgment.
The episode dives into Doug's experience with service work, highlighting how it played a crucial role in his recovery. His dedication to service, from making coffee at meetings to leading hospital sessions, showcases the profound impact of giving back. Listeners will find Doug's honesty about his struggles and triumphs both relatable and motivating. He discusses the significance of being present and how sobriety has allowed him to fully appreciate moments with his young daughter.
His story underscores that recovery is an ongoing journey, filled with both challenges and rewards. If you're looking for a mix of humour, inspiration, and practical advice on navigating life in sobriety, this episode is a must-listen. Doug's journey is a reminder that no matter how messy life gets, it's always worth the work to find your way back. Ready to be inspired by Doug's story?
Tune in and discover how he turned his life around with the help of AA.