Before joining OYNB, I felt unable to quit drinking for longer than a few weeks. I was seeing my health decline. I was diagnosed with fatty liver at age 38 and was still drinking heavily, regularly. I realised my two sons deserved better. They are adopted, their birth families trusted me to care for them. I wasn’t doing what I promised them, my kids, my husband or myself. This was my reason for joining OYNB, or my ‘why’ if you like.
My Personal Challenge
My Personal ChallengeI wanted to be able to prove to myself I had the inner strength to do this for 90 days. I wanted to feel pride in myself for taking on such a challenge, to better myself for my family. To get in shape physically and mentally. I was surprised to find myself seriously considering quitting for good, even though the cravings stuck around for a while after the alcohol was long gone from my system physically. I was pleasantly surprised at my ability to push through when it got really hard. With the help of the tribe I made it through some really hard days.
The Journey
I have read several books about quitting alcohol. This combined with the OYNB resources has been life changing. I haven’t felt this clear, focused, or energised in as long as I can remember. I was a regular heavy binge drinker for more than 20 years. I lost so many days to being drunk. I lost vacations, my children’s birthday parties, family events. All of these things seemed like reasons to drink. I see now, these were reasons to celebrate clarity and being in the moment. Alcohol steals your moments of joy.
My New Life
My New LifeSince becoming AF my family has visited my parents in North Carolina (previously massive trigger), we’ve stayed at a fun hotel and water park, we went on a winter vacation in the Colorado mountains and celebrated a few family birthdays. My husband who was a regular heavy drinker joined me on this challenge. We have both been alcohol free for 65 days. We enjoyed these outings and vacations with clear minds and pride. We were able to watch our children play and learn and truly be present. I look younger, I feel better, I am so much happier with myself and my abilities. I’m able to advocate for my autistic son and I’m better at being patient with his special needs.
I put it out to the universe that I needed help. OYNB appeared like a life raft on my Facebook feed. It has been the best decision I have ever made and I am eternally grateful for this group.
An entrepreneur and former senior oil broker, Ruari gave up drinking after excessive consumption almost cost him his marriage, and worse, his life. Going alcohol-free improved his relationships, career and energy levels, leading to him founding OYNB to provide a support network for others.
