Introduction and repost from other section
Hello, it's so nice to find this forum. I originally posted on the general newcomers forum, and then someone mentioned this one, so I wanted to give it a try. Here's my original post:
My father is a severe alcoholic. He drinks 24/7, and has done so for at least 5, probably closer to 10 years. I do not live at home (in a different state) anymore but my mother (parents are still together), told me that my dad eats very little and that even if he does it, he says he hardly ever feels like eating. He has very little energy and often naps a few times a day (he's 52). He has lost a lot of weight over the past couple of years and his appetite has steadily declined. My parents are not financially well off, my mom provides for them both, and I assume has insurance coverage for my dad as well. Dad has never been a fan of doctors and hospitals and goes only when he is in severe severe pain.
I just have a feeling this is the start of the end for my dad. I'm not sure if recovery is possible for him but for financial reasons I don't see it happening. I know a little about what happens with liver disease and all of the other complications. All the pain and time and money...I just don't know how to prepare myself for it, and I don't know how my parents can get through it.
Please don't think I'm standing idly by and have given up. If there is hope of recovery for him still (with financial help) please give me your thoughts. I'm sort of a realist I guess. Maybe it's not the end. I guess what I'm searching for is this: can he physically recover still (in your experience/opinion)? any personal experiences with loved ones that have or have had this severe alcoholism, and advice, suggestions, stories for preparing and coping with the last years of the life of an alcoholic.
Thank you very much for your time and thoughts.
(New post)
I received replies stating that he can still recover and things that I can do. I am currently gathering up the courage to start the process. It's scary because I've spent a long time taking care of myself and removed myself from the pain for awhile. My dad doesn't say much about wanting help as far as I know. Thanks again for any thoughts, ideas, and encouragement.