The depth of despair some of us pull ourselves from is pretty amazing - no matter the cause, the result of the disease is the same. I agree, I'm not sure how the term "hero" applies.
I'm extremely happy to hear about a child beating cancer. I'd call them courageous for their fight but I don't think hero applies here either.
Many of us in recovery are in a real fight for our lives. I personally will take kudos freely and openly. Our disease does not just kill us but acts like an atom bomb on our families as well. While in active addiction we are not free to choose what we do, we only do what we have to do.
I think maintaining recovery is incredibly courageous and demonstrates strength and willingness to set ego aside and do whatever it takes to be healthy.