I have alcoholic peripheral neuropathy. 404 days ago, I went to the hospital with pancreatitis. Because of alcohol withdrawals, there were complications. I spent 7 days in the ICU and 7 more days in the hospital. Feeding tube, ventilator, everything. I was having normal conversations with a .34 BAC. I had an enormous tolerance and problem. So, after a few months, I discovered I had large fiber peripheral neuropathy in both feet, a pinched nerve in my back, and a torn labrum in my shoulder requiring surgery. Vodka kept the pain at bay, so I didn't discover all these problems until I quit drinking. I also was anemic. People asked me if I felt better after I quit, when in fact I didn't. I could feel pain! But I hung in there. 404 days later, surgery, EMG, NCV, colonoscopy, endoscopy, lumbar injections, 2 MRIs, Bone scan, multiple cat scans and X-rays, and a ton of blood tests, here I am....all done alcohol free. If I can do it, anyone can. It doesn't matter what the situation is in your life. Alcohol does not relieve stress, it is a source of stress and destruction when abused.

I continue to improve. It will take a lot of patients and time, but I am determined. I have been reading this thread and thought I would say hello. Thanks to everyone for sharing their stories. It has really helped me through some dark times. It's nice to know you aren't alone.