It might be an attempt at manipulation. In fact, I am sure it was at least in large part triggered by my leaving him. However, he is there now and it might do something good. If it doesn't, then it's his decision and I am no longer part of it. I haven't called him back because I don't want to be part of his life, alcoholism or recovery. I am too preoccupied with reclaiming what I lost in six years with an alcoholic (and before that six years with someone equally dysfunctional).
This relationship is over whether or not he gets sober.
Regardless of why he is in rehab, he is there now and never was when I was so convinced that he could never survive without me. I am reminded now how deluded I was in thinking that I could do anything to help.