Ed Latimore

Everything in my life centered around alcohol. I made all of my decisions based on whether there would be alcohol or if it would interfere with my ability to drink. I ruined friendships and relationships, lost personal and professional opportunities, and despite being a professional boxer, had terrible health. I remember that time of my life as cold, meaningless, and self-destructive.

I went out one night, get blackout drunk, and woke up a friend’s house. I didn’t remember much, but I knew that I drove there. That was enough for me. I also finally had enough in my life worth caring about that made me care about myself. I think one reason I drank so much is that I didn’t like myself, and drinking made me forget that.

After 9 years of sobriety, I like and respect myself so much more than I ever did when I drank. I always have a clear mind, I’m able to live purposefully, my health is always optimal, and I’m always present and honest in all of my relationships. Sobriety is the best gift I’ve ever given myself. I do not know where I’d be if I never put the bottle down.