[Sugah]

The first time I remember being intoxicated, I was six. I don't remember all of it -- it was also my first blackout. I was a weekend drunk by the age of 9. So, at 34 when I got sober, I'd been drinking alcoholically for twenty-five years.

Those who drink before the age of 15 are 4 to 5 times more likely to become alcoholics than those who don't drink until they're "legal." I grew up in a rural area where it wasn't unusual for kids to be given quantities of alcohol in the home at a young age. I've spoken at three town hall meetings on the topic of underage drinking to impress upon parents that this is not okay and harmless.

I don't think it's my parents' fault that I'm alcoholic, nor do I think that drinking young made me alcoholic--though if underage drinking was less acceptable in my home and community, I may not have gotten the kick start that I did.

Peace & Love,
Sugah