Hi Amber! I am not from Chicago but signed up online. I had an alcoholic
grandfather and my mother was an addict. I have ended up in many relationships
with men with addiction problems and also have problems with friendships. I
have learned been to al-anon a few times in my local area and it has really
helped me. I am starting to have more meaningful relationships with friends and
learning that I can't change or do anything about my husband who is an alcoholic
and an addict. I just try to be happy despite his miserable existence and not
let it interfere with how I am feeling day to day. If you ever need someone to
talk to feel free to email me. Hope you have a blessed holiday season and that
things get better for you.

Michelle

Amber Fasching <ambafasch@...> wrote:
I wanted to introduce myself to the group. My dad is the acholoic in
my family. He has been ever since I can remember. Growing up with
him was very diffucult. I went 3 years with out talking to him and
we lived in the same house. When he came home I would leave and go
to my room. Now after college and moving away we seem to have a
better reltionship. But I think its only becuase we see each other
so little. I can still see him treat my younger brother who still
lives with him the way he used to treat me and my other siblings.

Right now I'm struggling with relationships. My friends I can take
or leave. Which I think is very sad. But everything is superficial
to me. I don't rely on them, I don't trust them, and if we were to
never talk to each other again......I would be ok with that. It's
the same with men. I tend to shy away from relationships. If I
start to date someone.....I think the worst and end it before
anything even happens.

I have seen my mom stand by my dad all these years. Even to this
day, when my dad is drunk...its like they can't stand to be in the
same room. My dad is a completly different person when he's
sober.....and I wish he could always be that way.

I guess I have just built up this wall and want to break it down. I
have always thought about going to a group meeting....but with my
work schedule I thought this would work better.

I'm just looking for support, advice, guidance, experience, and
knowledge. I want to get over my fears and anxieties. I want to be
able to have a real relationship with anyone and not have doubts.

Amber






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