Welcome GT. In reading your thread what strikes me is the sadness I feel. The sadness that comes from alcoholism and how it ruins lives. I allowed alcohol to ruin my life and take me to the bottom emotionally, physically and mentally.
You can rise above and you are on the right path in doing so. You can repair the damage and thrive even further then you ever imagined possible. Never give up hope. You can be set free from the grips of alcoholism. It is your choice and you are taking action now. Keep it up. You and those around you will surely reap the benefits.