I'm worried I might die

[Josephine1972]

I've been drinking lambrini (big bottles) for years and had stopped for roughly 6weeks,over the past week I've drunk a bottle every day but I'm now facing an operation and am scared that I die because of the drink!I'm going to faithfully stay clean and drink water so my bloods are okay for my up coming op!This time I want to stay off the booze for good, I've got 5gorgeous grandchildren and want to see them grow up, but I'm scared coz I keep going back to square one

[LAJ123]

Josephine,

Hello there.

Two things - First - don't panic. Second - you are in good company here.

Sorry you're so worried about any potential harm that alcohol may have caused to your liver. However, you've got over the first hurdle by accepting you might have a problem. Six weeks alcohol free is actually really good, which suggests you can stop permanently given the right help and support.

As you are waiting for an operation, it's likely that your bloods have so far not revealed anything sinister.

However, your next step is to get an appointment with your GP and simply repeat what you have just written. Then you can discuss your worries and concerns in an open and honest way.

If you are thinking you won't be able to completely stop there are options that would be on offer.

As you have already managed six weeks, a detox would seem unnecessary, but maybe long-term counselling would help you to understand why you drink and how you can deal with what appears to be a dependence on alcohol. Your GP should be able to help with a referral to an alcohol support group / service.

Trust me when I tell you that there is life after alcohol and it is often a lot better than before. I speak from experience having not had a drink for two years.

For me it was too late and I needed a liver transplant. I'm sure that for you all is well and there are five lovely grandchildren who will have their equally lovely gran for a very long time indeed.

Take care,

Jim

[Brummi]

Hi, not knowing what illness you have I'm sure you will be ok cutting back on the booze is a massive step in the right direction. We are confident you can do it, please keep us informed.

[19581979]

Jim and Brummie are talking a lot of sense.

Try not to worry and seek appropriate local help.

Best wishes and give the kids a hug, or their pictures a kiss if the kids are at that age/ stage/ or something your family don't do. It shows you love them and will help you with your determination to deal with what you're going through and got to do.

Emmy love for my hubby and sons has got me through some tough situations.

Thinking of you

Gx

[anneke0851]

Hang in there. You've cut down on your drinking so that's a big step. Hope all goes well with your operation.