I became addicted at a young age, the disease consumed and almost destroyed me. It could have easily taken my life and I am grateful that it didn’t. The disease was so powerful that I was powerless which unless you have went through it, its hard to imagine or believe. I understand for the non-addicted, people who are fortunate enough to not have this disease how hard it must be to understand addiction. All I can say it, no one would choose to have this disease. Having been on both sides of this disease, I understand the pain, shame and courage it takes relearn how to live, after addictions destruction. Recovery is a miracle, this disease has no mercy. My recovery took many, many years for me to begin regaining what addiction took from me. But it is possible. Today I celebrate over 40 years sober. I feel I had a calling to write Standing Back Up Against Addiction, passing onto others, the foundation that has kept me sober. I was sober for over 10 years before I decided to pursue a career as an addiction counselor. I have a Master’s Degree in Addiction Counseling from the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Counseling. I am a Licensed Addiction Counselor in MN and WI an Independent Clinical Supervisor – WI and a DOT- Qualified SAP. I have always been a strong advocate, personally and professionally in helping those that yet struggle. I recently opened my own private practice MA Perrin Recovery Services, LLC services: Rule 25 and chemical assessments, individual and family addiction counseling located in downtown River Falls, Wisconsin. I invite you to visit my business website at https://perrinrecovery.com/ Addiction is a manageable disease. There is hope, people don't choose to have this disease. Supporting an addict can save a live. To the addict, always love and value yourself do not allow this disease to define you. You are not your disease. Get the help you deserve. I became addicted at a young age, the disease consumed and almost destroyed me. It could have easily taken my life and I am grateful that it didn’t. The disease was so powerful that I was powerless which unless you have went through it, its hard to imagine or believe. I understand for the non-addicted, people who are fortunate enough to not have this disease how hard it must be to understand addiction. All I can say it, no one would choose to have this disease. Having been on both sides of this disease, I understand the pain, shame and courage it takes relearn how to live, after addictions destruction. Recovery is a miracle, this disease has no mercy. My recovery took many, many years for me to begin regaining what addiction took from me. But it is possible. Today I celebrate over 40 years sober. I feel I had a calling to write Standing Back Up Against Addiction, passing onto others, the foundation that has kept me sober. I was sober for over 10 years before I decided to pursue a career as an addiction counselor. I have a Master’s Degree in Addiction Counseling from the Hazelden Graduate School of Addiction Counseling. I am a Licensed Addiction Counselor in MN and WI an Independent Clinical Supervisor – WI and a DOT- Qualified SAP. I have always been a strong advocate, personally and professionally in helping those that yet struggle. I recently opened my own private practice MA Perrin Recovery Services, LLC services: Rule 25 and chemical assessments, individual and family addiction counseling located in downtown River Falls, Wisconsin. I invite you to visit my business website at https://perrinrecovery.com/ Addiction is a manageable disease. There is hope, people don't choose to have this disease. Supporting an addict can save a live. To the addict, always love and value yourself do not allow this disease to define you. You are not your disease. Get the help you deserve.