©InfoOver the past three years, David’s* alcohol problem has cost him his marriage, his job and very nearly his life. But now, helped by a Red Cross volunteer, he’s putting his life back together.
The father of one from Carmarthenshire, in Wales, was diagnosed with liver failure in 2007 and given two weeks to live. He recovered but then went on a downward spiral of regular binges and now lives with his mother.
David finally turned a corner after being referred to the Red Cross’ supported discharge service - part of the Red Cross' care in the home service - which helps people with drug and alcohol problems after they leave hospital. Helped by caseworker Helen Hunt, he has signed up to a 12-week residential rehab course.
Getting better
He said: “If it wasn’t for Helen, I wouldn’t have accessed any benefits or known how to contact the drug and alcohol social workers. She’s never given up. Helen’s belief in me instils me with a bit more belief in myself. Her impartiality is important too, because it makes me less wary of speaking out.”
David’s mother added: “It’s been a lot better since Helen started helping us. If I want to phone, she’s always there. Until she got involved, we’d been up against a brick wall.”
*Name has been changed
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