PPQ75,
So glad you made it here. I also have hospital detox in my history for drugs and lots of burned bridges and lost jobs. After the drugs I started using alcohol, which to me is just another drug.
Like you I called myself functional...went to work, took care of son and went through the motions. But the truth is I was never more dysfunctional. I was high on the job a lot and could have killed someone there or on the road while driving.
Also I sympathize with your health problems...my drugging and drinking have left me with a few as well. But the human body's ability to heal itself is truly amazing!
If you get a craving and start to think about going out for alcohol stop for a sec and remember what your last detox and withdrawals felt like. That usually makes me pause long enough for what's left of my "good sense" to kick in LOL!
Best of luck to you and think about trying AA if there are meetings close by...
TW