My name is Joseph Kariuki. My father was a drunkard and I used to admire him since he
seemed happy and he used to let us taste the local brew known as mùratina. Therefore, I was
exposed to alcohol at a tender age. During my school and college life I used to take alcohol
though in small amounts until I got employed in the hospitality industry. I then started to drink
seriously. Initially the situation didn’t affect my work and family life but as I drunk more, things
became bad and I started to lose control of my drinking. I was now fully addicted to alcohol. My
family and work life became affected. Also, my health became affected when I had a leg
infection. I was advised by the doctor to avoid alcohol and take my treatment seriously. I took
drugs for a few days but the craving for alcohol could not allow me to finish drugs as advised by
the doctor. My leg was extremely painful but I would take alcohol to dull the pain. My situation
got worse and I was hospitalized for three months one of which I was in a coma. At the end of it all
my leg would never be the same, as it was totally damaged and I became partially disabled. I had
no choice but to agree and accept the bitter truth. Fortunately, I was introduced to a group
namely Alcoholic Anonymous (AA) which gave me hope and taught me how not to go back to
alcoholism and assist others with a similar problem. With God’s grace I have dedicated my life
to helping by creating awareness and giving support to the addicted. I have experienced a lot
through alcoholism and I thank God by whose mercy and care am able to assist others.
N/B Alcoholism is a disease which should be taken seriously for a peaceful society.
Categories: Struggle With Alcoholism
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