Good Morning Erin! I don’t really know where to begin. Thank you so much for posting this. I went to bed last night and woke up this morning thinking I should quit drinking and the first thing I saw when I picked up my phone was your amazing, heartfelt video. Alcoholism also runs in my family and I’ve known for years that my addiction was ruining my life. Now, I’m 63 and I regret I didn’t seriously address it earlier. I’m a retired teacher, an aspiring KZfaqr, and have been confused for a very long time about alcohol. This may sound crazy but for a long time I have believed it was the source of my creativity, humor, and drive. I have been very successful despite drinking and until recently thought I couldn’t get much done without it. It took almost being totally broke for me to realize it is the source of my overspending, loneliness, unhappiness, and mental and physical pain. I have so much more to share and I will! Thank you for being an encouraging, loving guide. You are very important in my life and I’m grateful!

Sober as of 9/1/2019 here. Thanks for sharing from the heart.

Not drinking is one of the best decisions I ever made

Today I have been sober 610 days. One day at a time. Thank you for sharing 💕

My Dad was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in May. He stopped drinking couldn't stop smoking) and became the nicest, sweetest, most loving man I have ever met. He became my father. He died in August, a short three months later. That's when I realized my father was an alcoholic. Those three months are the best memories of my father. This was 26 years ago. Bless you, Erin and thank you.❤️❤️

My father had a problem with alcohol and quit when I was 12, but knowing the dynamics alcohol can bring into lives, I chose never to drink myself. All through college and later social situations when drinking was ‘cool’ I never gave in to being a ‘wet blanket’ in the party. I’m now on my way to 81 and have never regretted not drinking. Thank you for being brave r ought to share your story. Alcoholism definitely has a genetic link and you were wise to stop drinking alcohol when you did. ❤️. Sandra

Thank you for sharing. 🙏. 20 years sober here.

I quit drinking on my daughter's first day of kindergarten. I had brain fog for 6 to 9 months. I was too shy to go to AA but I did attend two meetings. Almost fifteen years later I relapsed. It took me two years to quit after that. I lost so much weight everybody kept asking me what my secret was! I now have all kinds of things that make me happier than being drunk did. I have not drank in 11 years now. 😀

Thank you Erin for sharing such a "taboo" subject. I will be celebrating my 4 year anniversary of sobriety next month. Everything you mentioned from feeling healthier to saving money to looking better is all true. Alcohol is a toxic substance like any other addictive drug. I appreciate you giving this topic the voice it deserves. Thank you.

Thank you for sharing, Erin. I’m a social drinker but as I listen to you...even drinking only socially, it is not serving me well. 🙂

This is an important conversation.Thank you for this video.

Oh Erin, just when I thought I couldn’t adore you anymore you drop this amazing video!!! I too am a sober woman (14 years), and so appreciate when women share their story in such a graceful and elegant way. Taking the time to use this platform as a powerful agent for change is not only brave; it’s necessary!!!! Bravo 👏🏻 ❤️🌻

Thank you for sharing your story. You are even more amazing to me than you were 15 minutes ago. I love you!!

Thank you for sharing your story! It takes a lot of courage to admit to yourself having a problem, let alone sharing it with others! I'm one of those people who can't drink in moderation, it was all or nothing for me. Wine was my best friend for some time, until I decided to quit. There's nothing better than feeling sharp, focused and in control! xoxo

I was a pretty heavy drinker in my 20s. It started in College and I actually used it as a tool to maintain my weight. If I got hungry, I would drink and it worked like an appetite suppressant for me. I am 5.7 and was down to 105lbs at my lowest & I actually thought I looked fantastic..(I didn't in reality). My casual alcohol use turned into a full blown dependency..It took me a few years to get it under control and cost me some relationships and a job. I have been alcohol and smoke free for about 18 years now. Meeting my husband and having children changed the course of my life and gave me a purpose that was bigger than myself. I believe it was Devine intervention. Thanks for being vulnerable and bringing awareness to such a topical issue.

I quit drinking too! About 6 years ago. After being hooked up to an IV 3 separate occasions in a hospital and losing my will to live, I decided to fight. At first it was for my son, and then my husband, eventually, until I realized that being sober doesn’t suck, I stuck with it for me. Your top 10’s are sooo true! It doesn’t happen overnight. There is definitely a tough transition, but it’s all very true what you said. AA was helpful, but I realized I wasn’t a group therapy kind of gal so individual therapy with a social worker was my gig. Reading the 12 steps helped me sooo much. My best goes out to anyone suffering and I hope they seek help. Alcoholism doesn’t discriminate. There is nothing to feel ashamed for. Congrats Erin!

Erin this was so brave of you and so proud of you for sharing this topic. 💜

dear erin, i am so glad u posted this vid. i have been fighting my battle with booze for years. i go a few days of staying sober and then i feel so good that i decide to drink again. my hangovers ruin my next day but i have juss learned to put up with them . as i have gotten older they are getting worse and really affecting me and my day and my outlook on life. after listening to your video i am going to try again and go for 30 days with out the devil (meaning booze). i want to succeed and not shorten my life because of an addiction that is getting the best of me. xx

I’ve been sober for almost 14 months and I have never looked better! Thank you for sharing Erin I love you even more now!

The timing of this video is an interesting coincidence for me. Or maybe it’s not a coincidence! 🤔 I have been contemplating my relationship with alcohol. Especially since I just ended a relationship that was full of drinking and our relationship suffered because of it for sure. I was thinking of quitting for 30 days to see how my mind and body feels. Then your video popped up which was unexpected. I was just looking for some black jeans for fall lol...the universe has ways of showing us signs when we are open. Thank you for sharing your story and being so positive.

Thank you for helping to diminish the stigma associated with this disease. I was sober 8 years then relapsed. I am now sober for three years. You have shown that you genuinely do want your followers to be the best version of themselves possible.

Thank you so much for this. Dealing with problems before they become big is what, in my opinion, separates successful people from desperate people. This concerns what we ingest, spend or say.

Oh yes, there is absolutely a genetic component with alcoholism, my family on both sides had alcoholics, it's a terrible disease that will take those that love you away, as it did my father. His disease was so bad he could not be present in our lives...I have no doubt that he was capable of love...just not strong enough to fight off his disease. I know many high functioning alcoholics, it saddens me, not only are they not living a full life...they will also shorten their lives. I made the decision to not drink at all in my life many many years ago with no regrets. Bravo to you for making the change in your life, you're better for it, your family and friends also benefit from you loving yourself enough to make the decision not to drink. It takes strength and courage to recognize our own faults....Excellent Video ERIN!!

thank you for an amazing video. I lost my husband over a year ago. He was an athlete and coach who along with all of the work that went into it, drank a lot with the socialization, until a stroke ensued, depression set in and even though he was totally functional after the stroke ,could not engage in contact sports anymore, leaving him more time to drink until he physically drowned himself in alcohol from the depression. I, along with him socially drank and now I feel because he is gone, and loneliness has set in I find myself drinking a lot. I have to stop before it's too late. I want to be more alert ,do more, etc. I think this video has begun to help . thanks again

I think you are way past helping one person but here stands another. I have listened to this every time I do my daily hour’s walk, sometimes twice through. You are reaching many who don’t have a huge problem but just want to clear the deck of alcohol for good. This is the most persuasive thing I have ever heard. Big thanks to you. Love the fashion stuff...that goes w/o saying.

Thank you. This helps me. I feel good about the fact that I have cut down on my drinking. I can see a point where I will quit all together.

I have been alcohol free for 8 years. It’s amazing. Thank you for sharing your story! It was not my friend either.

Thank you for sharing this very personal story! You didn’t just stop drinking. You have found and are experiencing serenity. You have found “ sobriety”. These two are the result of deep reflection and desire for change. Congratulations to you! It’s not automatic and is entirely different than simply “ not drinking alcohol. You continue to be an inspiration! I use the word “ lovely” now so often as a way to describe things because you use it often... and you truly are lovely. Thank you 😘

You are preaching to the choir, Erin!! I gave up drinking alcohol over 35 years ago. I think it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. I have reaped a lifetime of benefit from it. More than anything else, I feel free. I am not relying on a chemical to make me happy but it is all me and I am present in every moment. Thanks so much for choosing to share your story. I really hope it sparks a fruitful conversation.

Powerful message! My life improved exponentially and the change began with me 13 years ago, one day at a time. I already saw you as a strong and successful woman. Now after sharing this private and vulnerable aspect of your life, I respect you much more!

Such a powerful talk! Another benefit is being a role model for your children. I think our son, at 17 now, hasn’t been interested in drinking since we don’t drink and most of his friends have tried or do drink alcohol. He knows we live just fine or even better not having alcohol in our lives. An eye opener was after having him and going to restaurants and seeing other people drinking with babies and little ones and then getting in cars and driving under the influence with the little ones in the car!

What concerns me are all the young girls and young Moms who are caught up in the huge wine trend. Drinking wine is being glamorized. Full disclosure.....I drink a glass or two of red wine each evening, but I am almost 70 and did not start drinking wine until I was in my 60's. I can't imagine how I would look or feel if I had been drinking and trying to raise my kids and work a job. As it is, i have gained 15 lbs over the last 5 yrs! I need to re-evaluate and start being more of a role model to my grown children and younger friends. Maybe if they see an old lady actually losing weight and getting stronger, it may spur them on to quitting too! Thank you for starting this conversation.

When you talked about the Serenity prayer, I literally got a lump in my throat. That prayer can apply to so many areas of EVERY SINGLE person's life. I, for one, love a nice glass of wine...or 2 or 3.😘 There was a time I would indulge myself, 3-4 evenings a week. To me, it made dinner preparation and evening routines so much more relaxing. However, my husband wasn't crazy about the new habits I was forming and was concerned that eventually I would want to relax with wine EVERY night of the week. Now I just look forward to Fridays, and only Fridays (unless there's a special occasion). 😊 Great video topic! Glad you are happier now. 💕

My thought watching this video was just a thoughtful, intelligent and genuine woman you are. ❤️ I grew up with a very different experience with alcohol. My parents had religious beliefs that they thought kept them from drinking when we were growing up. It was sort of an oppressive thing that isolated them from family and friends. After we both turned 21 and they realized we were fine, they both started drinking wine and it has been a great joy to enjoy with them all as adults. I have a problem with the “alcohol culture” in the US. Many people seem to think if you drink, it’s to get drunk. Alcohol is enjoyed in every culture around the world, and not to get drunk. I personally enjoy it and am grateful to have healthy relationship with it, but I know that’s not the case for many. I so appreciate your honesty and openness and what a strong woman you are. You’re a fabulous example for your children. Thanks for sharing❤️

Alcohol is bad, bad stuff. Alcoholism runs in my family. I think it's sad how our society glamorizes and normalizes drinking alcohol.

Dear Erin, I am so proud of you,!! Both my parents were alcoholics and it destroyed my family. I do not drink and neither does my brother and we are both over 70. My mother died when I was 7 due to alcoholic rated diseases. I look around and see so many families destroyed thru alcohol. When I was working as a nurse in E R , I can’t even begin to tell you the destruction of lives due to alcohol. It is so hard for me to see people drinking. I don’t have a soap box about people doing what I think is best , but so many people drink as a self treatment for depression anxiety and other mental illnesses. You are so brave, keep using this channel as a way to help so many people. Proud of you and love you loads! Glenda

I stopped drinking 6 months ago. Drinking became such a habitual nightly routine that I just felt wasn’t good for me. I would pour a glass of wine, or make a martini or something every night, and I would drink it down like water and get another one. I wanted to stop for a while, but I kept procrastinating, I just couldn’t picture myself not having my evening drinks, especially with dinner “water only? , don’t think so “. Well on February 26, 2019, I said to myself, “ try to go this one night without a drink “. The next day I was so proud of myself ( although I did have a headache, due to the withdrawals). Making it through that one day was a life changer for me, I was like “I can do this, let’s try to go another day “ and then “I’m going to see how long I can go”. The weird thing is, is that I don’t seem to miss it. I especially don’t miss it when I’m at a dinner party , or out with friends and I know they’ve had too much ( they always have designated drivers, by the way- sometimes it’s me!). Anyway, I know they’re not going to feel good the next day, and I’m going to feel great! Sometimes I miss the taste of red wine with dinner, my husband always says “you can have a glass, it’s okay “. But, I always say, no. First of all one drink leads to more for me, and 2nd, I just want to see how long I can go. I’m proud to say that I don’t drink anymore more, and I cannot say that if I have the occasional drink. My husband and I still go out to happy hour, and dinner quite often, I always order my club soda with lime. It’s my drink of choice now❤️

When the student is ready, the teacher appears- Thank you!

Erin, wow this was an amazing discovery to learn about your journey with drinking. I just celebrated 25 years in July and I’m 56. It has truly transformed my life. Good for you for being so open and honest.

Thank you Erin for this very real video. For the last decade or so, I've been drinking more than I should. Pretty much every night, a couple of glasses of wine, sometimes more. I can go for a while and not drink, but it always seems to circle back around to the same old routine. I'm going to give it a shot again though, inspired by your story. Thanks friend!

Thanks for sharing this Erin. I quit drinking over 3 years ago. My husband did as well. It’s been a good thing for both of us.

It is good to share and be vulnerable. Helps in healing. Nothing to be ashamed of. You are human. Letting others see your humanity is a gift to us. Makes you a real person and not just a perfect cut out of a person. Thank you for sharing.

I'm almost 58.....I believe I look younger now than I did when I was 38 and I was drinking all the time.....not drinking alcohol literally reverses the signs of aging.....there is no serum or million dollar product out there that can do that.....it's a process, but so so worth it! Thank you Erin....your story inspires me!

Wow! What a wonderful share. You said it all. Very honest. Just about every incident that has happened with friends and family in my life was around drinking. I’ve seen too much damage because of it. My marriage ended because of my husband’s drinking. Broke my heart, but I couldn’t live like that any longer. Tried my best, but ultimately it is THEIR decision. I just decided that it wouldn’t ruin my life as well. Thank you for your courage in sharing.

I quit drinking when I was 40. I went to a counselor who had me sign a contract stating that I would never take another drink. That was frightening but what great strategy.I signed the paper, and from that day forward I have kept my word. It is amazing what drinking looks like when you are the one who is sober! Now I am 72, and the decision to live without alcohol is one of the best decisions that I ever made. Erin, you reach a lot of women, so it is fantastic that you decided to share your personal story. It takes courage and you may have helped many women struggling with the addiction of alcohol. Blessings!

Thank you Erin! My marriage ended because my former husband was an alcoholic in denial. He would not seek help, no matter what I tried. We separated and it was really rock bottom from there for him. Your openness and honesty is loved and appreciated!

Thanks for sharing Erin~ I've experienced similar dynamics, grew up in an alcoholic family and started to developed the allergic side effects in my late 30's which increased as I've matured. I still have a drink now and then but feel 100X better when I'm clear, you nailed it on the benefits!

Thank you for sharing! I quit drinking about 32 years ago. It has done nothing but serve me in a positive way. I was fortunate that I needed no help. I was not an alcoholic....yet! I have close family members that are alcoholics. Thank God for AA. They are all sober. It's such a hard topic to bring up because of how it is perceived by most members. Great job on bringing a difficult topic to light!

You never know who you will touch with an episode like this... very brave!! I quit alcohol 6 years ago and had the same questions and reservations about what life would be like without it. Happy to say that so many positive things happened to me as well. You absolutely have 10 great and true benefits of life without alcohol. I’m the healthiest and happiest I’ve ever been . Great job telling your story.

Thank you Erin. Your style runs deep.

THAT was such an inspiring video you shared... I will stop drinking, ( I would call me a social drinker ). I drink white wine and beer to relieve pain. I have a chronic disease that pain meds do not help. I have had practically every joint replaced, so exercise is tough. But, after listening to you, I don’t need that in my life. Alcohol is “not my friend”. I feel like crap the next day...and still in pain! I will search for another “relief”. Thank you for sharing. You helped me, more than you know, dear friend.💕

Thank you for sharing this!! I’m going to celebrate 4 years sober next month and I love when people share their story. You helped me so thank you!!

Proud of you for sharing your story. Yes you will help someone.

"If you are asking yourself if drinking is an issue then it's an issue." "...at the very least it's not serving you." Powerful words! For me it may be more powerful than the 10 amazing things list. The list seems to be the icing on the cake. Thank you for sharing!

Hi Erin, I quit drinking 9 months ago today because it didn't serve me. I was tired of battling everyday with should I have a wine or shouldn't I - I usually did! I was sick of thinking about it. After a couple of drinks I would fall asleep on the couch, not eat my dinner and have a terrible sleep then wake up feeling sick, feel guilty and usually do it again that day. My first husband is an alcoholic and I left before it destroyed myself and my 3 girls. I remarried eventually and drinking has always been a big part of my now husband's life and his family's. We have battled over his drinking and we separated at one stage for over a year. We are ok now - building our dream home - but his drinking will always bother me. I have seen how it destroys families and I have girlfriends who drink excessively and I hate it. It is THE best thing I have ever done for myself. I don't miss it and the thought of waking up with a hangover is enough to make me never drink again. Thank you for sharing your story 💛

Great job, Erin! Perfect way to use your platform. I quit drinking 3 years ago and I agree with all you points. I’ve never been happier and more content. The one huge benefit that happened for me is to realize that I am worthy. Worthy of happiness. Thanks again for sharing!

That was incredibly courageous of you, Erin. I personally don’t have a problem with drinking, but my husband is a high-functioning alcoholic who is still in denial. It has caused a lot of pain in our family. I grew up in an alcoholic home too, but am now in recovery at Al-Anon. We have monthly combined meetings with AA where I learn so much about the disease of alcoholism, and how to grow in compassion towards my husband. Anyway, thank you so much for sharing your story. It’s so important to get rid of the stigma around it. I believe it’s going to help many of your viewers out there. Alcohol dependence/alcoholism is much more common than people think

I truly appreciate your honesty and you sharing your story. I grew up in Alanon and have always loved the Serenity Prayer. And I am not a drinker and never have been. But, that prayer (religious or not) puts things in perspective and is a really good tool to get through things. 💖

In my family alcoholism became a part of a negative family culture that eventually broke most relationships within the family apart. My mother’s parents were both alcoholics - and even though she rarely drinks- it made her a more fearful, less trusting person. I see those tendencies in myself- and actively try to work on those impulses. It’s amazing how far reaching the fall out from drinking is. Thankfully I’m not drawn to alcohol - but I definitely know how much it has impacted me regardless.

Erin, this is an excellent (and brave) video. My ex husband is an alcoholic and waited until alcohol was destroying his life before he quit. A lot of people feel that way-the alcoholic is the person who cannot function but you are absolutely right - alcoholism is not simply when you hit rock bottom. It’s all about the relationship with alcohol. There are plenty of functional alcoholics out there and only the people who know them best can identify the cracks forming in their lives as a result of alcohol.

Thanks for sharing. My family has definitely been touched with the destruction that alcoholism brings. Luckily for me, alcohol just makes me ill. Kudos to you for addressing this topic. 😊

There is power in prayer 🙏🏽 I am glad you found a combination of something that worked for you. You are brave.🌸

Thank you for sharing !!! Speaking about this is not popular , but really is very real in slot of our lives. I stopped drinking in 2010 when I gave my life to the Lord. Reconciled with my God & never looked back.

Thank you for sharing. I quit drinking 35 years ago and I’m still grateful for waking up and feeling good in the morning. I also know that at any time I can drive someone anywhere the need to go when I’m around. No guilt no embarrassment! The thought of drinking still makes me feel sick. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. Thanks again.

Erin,thank you so much for sharing. As a nurse, a daughter and mom of people with addiction it is so rewarding to hear of success. Wearing sobriety never goes out of style. I love the way you explained the benefits in a simple hearfelt forum. It takes alot of courage to soul search, prepare for your journey and actually go through with it. To share with others encourages everyone to keep sobriety. You and many of your viewers are amazing people. Hugs to each of you.🌹💝☺

Wonderful video! I started tapering down to a social drink here and there about 15 years ago (I started with one per week, then bi-weekly, monthly, 3 months, 6 months). Now, I don't drink at all. Alcoholism runs in our families. I don't want my grandkids to remember that "yucky" feeling that so many of us lived with from seeing relatives drunk. NOT in my home!

Thank you for such a wonderfully honest and inspirational video. My Nan taught my sister and myself the serenity prayer when we were 5/6 years. I say it every night. I believe acceptance is the key to life. I’m sober 15years 11months. I grew up in an alcoholic home, I abused alcohol for many years as did my beloved late brother who passed away 1 month ago. Since I have stopped drinking alcohol I have found peace and contentment. It didn’t happen overnight and life is not a Disney movie but it is a million times better, happier, healthier both physically and mentally when you are sober.

My mom was a single mother of three children and one child with a disability. She had a hard life but she was an alcoholic. I grew up watching her drink daily. She wasn’t a stumble fall down drunk. She was the life of the party and everyone loved her. She was very loud and hateful with her words at times. I never remember her saying I love you until later on in my life. This sounds horrible but she was a good mother but in the end she chose alcohol over anything else. She died from cirrhosis of the liver. I myself went through an alcohol issue thru ages of 16-25. Just one day I got tired of the way my life was headed and wanted to love myself. Two years later I had my own children and I’m happy they’ve never had to experience the things I had to experience.

Coming up on 9 years and I relate to everyone of these points. Thank you for sharing.

🙃I quit 6 yrs ago just to get in better health! It is amazing how much better it feels without it!🤗. You better believe you have helped, touched, and improved someone’s life with sharing your story!!!!💖

I wish I could “Like” this a million times!! I have 19 years of sobriety & as I type this, getting ready to go to an AA meeting. It’s changed my life so much. I didn’t believe in God or miracles before but I do now. Thank you for your honesty & hopefully if there is someone sick or struggling out there, it will give them the courage to find help

these conversations should be happening more, thank for sharing your vulnerability! I too have been down this journey and do not drink anymore! It's empowering to get back that control and choosing to be honest with yourself and the demons that often chase us down. Keep up with all the real things that are often not shared on this or any other platform, because I am paying attention! virtual hugs Erin, xoxoxo :o)

So glad you did this video! I rarely drink because I just don’t like how I feel. It’s hard when our culture places so much emphasis on drinking to have fun!

Thank you Erin for making the decision to share your story. You’re brave and you’re going to influence women who follow you that have an adverse reaction to alcohol. I stopped 3 years ago and it saved my life. AA has brought knowledge and fellowship that I desperately needed. Now I’m enjoying my life and family, and helping others. Sending you lots of love 💗 Deb

thank you so much for this Erin ... I know I have a problem ... but it’s always a « civilized » problem ... I never get crazy .... but I feel alcohol is stopping me from a lot of things. you are making me rethink the situation.

Thanks for sharing your story. I am always amazed when you share a story and we have something in common. I have 21 years clean and sober and am so grateful.

Thank you!!!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 - God definitely granted you courage- and using your platform for good! You definitely inspired me- and at one point had me crying. You’re a gem, Erin! Keep doing you!

Thank you for sharing your story with us Erin. It is a subject that either resonates with us personally or because we have history within our families. This video I'm sure can be the catalyst for changing their relationship with alcohol. This was a a very kind and giving hand you extended to so many people that are struggling with this issue. Thanks again. 💕

When I stopped drinking several years ago, that left plenty of free time to think. And wow, when I started _thinking_ again, I realized how blind I’d been living for so many years. God bless and thank you for sharing your story and wisdom. I pray it helps other women (and men) who find this video.

Erin - kudos to you for being brave enough to share your story. Our son in law came to me earlier this year and told me he knew he was out of control with his drinking and he was going to stop. He was having issues with our daughter, his wife, and he knew he was handling it badly. He decided on his own to go to AA meetings and he talked to me. I suggested that even though I was happy to sit with him and talk, I was not equipped to really help him work out the issues. I then suggested that he call our Pastor who is a family counselor, especially since they could not afford to pay for a professional and we live in a very rural area where there are not a lot of options. He has been counseling with Pastor since early May and it has helped so much because he can say out loud what he needs to say and know he won't be judged and he receives the guidance he needs. I once had an alcoholic in my life when my daughter was in her teens and made the decision that was not good for my life or my daughters. I am sure your story will help other women. Thank you again.

Erin, thank you for sharing your story! It is not easy to be open up and be vulnerable to others. Your words of encouragement were impactful! As you said if your story reaches 1 person it was well worth the effort! Have a blessed Sunday.😊🙏🏼

Thank you for sharing. It’s been 3 months for me and I can’t believe how many positive changes. And it’s so good to hear your story. Encourages me to keep going To discover The sparks in heart I am capable of

Good for you for being so brave and honest. Addiction is very difficult to break away from and the benefits are incredible.

I think people speaking up will help with this problem not being so stigmatized. People are scared to come forward, they don’t want that stigma attached to their name. Thank you for your voice.

Thank you so much for sharing your story! I have been a functioning heavy drinker and wanting to stop for a long time. This was the first weekend with out a bottle of wine a night. (Without any wine this weekend). I want my sparkle back and hearing your story is encouraging for me to continue.

Thank you for this. I am a social drinker but 1 year out from bariatric surgery and risk of alcoholism is great. I worry about missing out on social drinking but you definitely gave me a different perspective. 👍❤️

Erin, thank you. I’m 49 and needed this TODAY. Family history of alcoholism, intermittent quitting throughout my life, embarrassing experiences in my youth, not giving 100% to my husband, kids, and myself... I’m done. Thank you for encouraging me to do what I knew needed to be done for many years. May God bless you!

God gave you the awareness, strength and wisdom to stay away from this substance. He is real and available to us when we seek him. Great video Erin and we all need this this message. Kudos to your courage and concern for yourself and others. ❤

As a parent, another good reason not to drink are the two little eyes watching your every move..

Shared this with someone I think needs to hear.

How fabulous and how very true‼️I’m 5 years sober and have NEVER FELT SO FREEEEE‼️It’s heavenly! Thank you for speaking up, girl!! You’re awesome!!!

You are such a brave, nice and caring, human being, thank you for keep it real.

Well done! What a wonderful public service you've just performed. To see an intelligent, clear minded, well spoken young woman so sincerely and succinctly speak about her personal experiences with alcohol and its effects sends a powerful message....thank you so much for this.

Thank you, Erin! I stopped drinking earlier this month for a fitness challenge at my gym. It was something I had wanted to do for a long time, but just couldn't give up. For me it was about relaxation and stress relief, but was really not serving me well. I was too tired at night to be productive and the fact that I couldn't come home and not have it was a red flag. I'm not sure what will happen when the challenge is over, but I'm hoping I will see the benefits and not start up again.

Thanks for share this Erin. Really you touched my heart and my mind. Was nice see you in this emotional situation beyond the look, the fashion and the shopping. I see you very different now. I have issues with the alcohol in my family and listen to you today was simply a very important sign for me. Hugs and love.

Alcohol is the one drug you have to explain why you don’t use it. I’ve found that alcohol is so socially acceptable, even though there are so many negative effects on your life. I’ve been 11 months alcohol free & the social situations are the most interesting. My friends tease me & some times don’t invite me, however I’m now ok with that because the benefits far out way all the negatives 😁 Thank you for sharing your story & sharing all those great benefits of saying goodbye to the drug “alcohol” 🙏🏻

Thank you Erin. Alcohol triggers terrible migraines in me. I call it my allergic reaction. I quit drinking in my 20s(now 54). All you positive points are spot on.

Erin, what a great video! This is such an important message to get out there. I have not had any alcohol in 27 years and I don't miss it. I was on my way to alcoholism and I am more grateful than I can say that I stopped. Sobriety is such a gift and is so important in the world we live. At 70 I do get anxious from time to time but it is so much better to deal with sober than not. I lost my husband 10 years ago and I can't tell you how many people told me to take a drink or a pill to numb the pain. But I wanted to feel the pain so I could move through it. We just can't numb our feelings . Also alcoholism is such a big problem with senior citizens it is very sad to me. I hope I can share your video with my niece someday . She is having a bad time with her drinking after a divorce. She doesn't want to hear from me about it at all. But I pray that someday soon she will want my help. Thank you for sharing this is so important. Barbara

I quit drinking alcohol in December 2010 and I have never looked back. Thanks for sharing. My doctor who is also female said that women over 40 just shouldn’t drink so here’s the proof. 😊😊😊

I love your real talk videos. They usually resonate in some way with me. I’ve been thinking for a while now I drink too often (every night 2 glasses of wine) but I just can’t seem to stop, it has a hold on me. I fret if there’s no wine in the house, that must mean I have a problem! Thank you for sharing your story.