1. 44 years old when I put it down
2. I made sobriety my number one priority and did whatever I had to do in the beginning. No excuses. I even took time away from kids and work if I had to. I went to a lot of AA meetings, changed routines, stayed away from triggers, whatever.
3. Now I have found a routine in AA that is working for me. Good contacts, good meetings, etc... My life doesn't revolve around it as it seems to for some people but I believe in balance. I visit here often because it helps me remember what life was like and hopefully I can share experience. I've also been reading some books to help.
Best wishes that you find something that works for you.