My name is John and I’m an alcoholic and drug addict. That is something that is very easy for me to say today but it wasn’t always that way. As a matter of fact, even at the height of my active addiction, I probably would have told you everything was okay. But like they say, it takes what it takes for us to become willing or at least admit there’s a problem. For me it took many jails and institutions; something I’m very grateful for today. I definitely believe that if it wasn’t for me getting locked up and sat down for a few extended periods during my active addiction that I wouldn’t be here today. I’m very grateful to say that I haven’t been locked up or put any substance in me for almost 6 years now. My sobriety date is December 21, 2010. That is not my first sobriety date but I plan to make it my last. The difference from that day and the others is that I was finally willing to take some action. Thanks to people in my life like my cousin Korey that action was the 12 steps of a 12 Step Program. Most of us have heard that old saying jails, institutions and death. Well, thanks to 12 Step Programs, service work and staying active in my recovery by participating in events like the ones put on by the Up & Out Foundation, I’ve been able to put a stop to that vicious cycle. Today, I’m able to be a productive member of society. I’m part of my family. I’m able to live reasonably happy and have a newfound purpose and outlook on life!