Scared, if I didnt know any better, I would swear it was myself talking in a guy form.
You can be happy, stress and pain free. You just have to set your mind to it, take the necessary steps, focus. You said you used to play football, I bet that took a lot of dedication and drive... if you could put that kind of effort into getting on the path to sobriety, I know you'll be successful.
I'm still in very early recovery myself, not even 4 months, so I'm not that great at giving advice, but I feel like if I can do it, anyone can. I'm here if ya want to talk or anything.