Oh, SarArtist, I am so sorry about what has happened to your friend; I hope that he has a full recovery.
Glad that you have re-discovered SR; there is a wealth of information in the "stickies" and elsewhere on this site about alcoholism and addiction; the people on this site are amazing - they are supportive, encouraging and understanding - they will bare their souls and listen with compassion.
Your avatar shows an absolutely adorable little baby and a very beautiful young woman. You are so right, you have a beautiful family, SarArtist. Only you can decide if you have a drinking problem (but binge drinking every few nights is definitely a sign there may be one).
I can promise you that sobriety will never let you down or bring regret into your life.
Enjoy that wonderful little baby; hope to see you "around the threads".