Shutterbug1

Does anyone know of anyone who chose recovery and stayed sober for a long time? Like 20 years of sobriety or more. Is it possible, does it happen or is this just hopeless? Are there ANY success stories???

ichabod

Yes, it happens. My husband's sponsor's 27 year celebration was held a week or two ago, and we know many people with 20+ years.

mfanch

My sponsor has 18 years.
Her sponsor has 25 years.
Her sponsor has 40 years.

In my homegroup, over half (of 60 people) have 10+ years.

lizatola

My therapist has 35 years sober and a few friends in Al Anon have spouses whose husbands are over the 25 year mark. So, yes, it's possible.

Freedom1990

My current sponsor has 31 years. My sponsor before her celebrated 31 years in August. I celebrated 22 years in August.

dollydo

My friend was sober for 20 years, unfortunately, the eve of the 20th year she went on a bender and hasn't stopped yet.

Freedom1990

I'm so sorry about your friend, dollydo. I will surely keep her in my prayers.

Shutterbug1

Thats amazing Freedom, i'm so happy for you and your loved ones.

AlwaysGrowing

Sober 21 years in a few weeks.. Have many friends with other 20 years. Yes it is possible.

jamaicamecrazy

In my area there is a weekend once a year devoted to AA, Al Anon and Al Ateen. 3 days of motivational speakers and panel discussions. Saturday night there is a countdown recognizing years of sobriety. It is amazing and I always end up crying. Last year there was a man who stood up at 35 years. He looked so proud and his wife was beaming with joy and love. I want to be able to look at my AH that way and see the pride on his face. Too bad he doesn't want that for himself. Yes it is possible but they have to want it and work the program everyday!

AlwaysGrowing

In a meeting the other night with about 25 people in the room there were chips given out. In that one night there was 6 months, 21 years, 34 years, and 40 years celebration of sobriety.