First and foremost, I'm not going to preach abstinence, we are all adults and can make our own decisions.

For me, apparently, I'm not an adult enough to be responsible. I've let alcohol take over, I drink daily and I've gained weight back.

My spiral started around 4 years ago and has progressed steadily. Until recently, I was in control. I could drink and be ok. I would get drunk and know what happened the next day.

Now however, I will get drunk and can't remember a thing. The next day I have massive brain fog, can't concentrate, can't orate correctly, I feel like crap, have the shakes etc. To be clear, I never leave my house and drive. I worry however that it could come to that.

My weight is making my back problem even more painful. My clothes are tight, I'm depressed, and it's just awful. I feel like it's groundhogs day every day. I say I'm going to stop and I last a few days and then I slip back.

However today I've made a decision to stop drinking entirely. I'm done. I'm not drinking ever again. I clearly can't control my self. I'm an addict with food and now alcohol.

Much like food did, booze will ruin my life if I continue. I'm going to join AA and clean my life up yet again.

Writing this is a first step for me. I'm not looking for pity, or to be chastised.

I need to be self shamed and admit what I am. I'm an alcoholic. However, I can change this, I will change this. I will be healthier soon, it will be hard but I'm going to get there.

So please, be careful with alcohol. We all spent a lot of time and money to say nothing of the physical and mental pain we've been through, don't throw it away.

Todd, you have admitted that you are an alcoholic which is the first step. Hallelujah for you being able to do that. God bless you on your journey. My husband drank over 50 years. We just celebrated year 3 of his sobriety. It can be done. We are rooting and praying for you. Love, Teresa in Virginia

I'm sorry you're going through this, but I'm proud of you for being able to admit this and make the decision to change it. I worry about those that drink daily and don't moderate their alcohol consumption after the surgery. It's one thing to enjoy an occasional drink, it's another to drink daily (or multiple times per day). I really am impressed with your ability for self reflection and honesty. I really hope you're able to work through this. You took the first step today. Keep going, and good luck!!!

Good job! I'm not going to say the hardest part is over, because it's not addiction for a lot of people is a continual struggle. What I will say is that alcohol is a depressant, so by giving it up it could effect your life in so many ways for the better. Less depression means more happiness, more willingness to interact with people, more ability to workout and want to take care of yourself. All things to help in your sobriety and with your weight loss journey. Good luck to you in this time of change; change is never easy, but it's worth it.

@Todd_196 Thank you for being brave and sharing this. As another guy that who has ups and downs in this area, I appreciate it. Alcohol is so tricky after these surgeries. I am very proud of you!

This is one thing I look out for all the time. I am 3.5 years into recovery and not had a drink of alcohol since 8/11/2018 but california sober got me for awhile. Got really real and I am worried about this but learned during pre surgery **** that it happens, and is real so I stay very diligent. Keep up the good work, the first step is always the hardest.

Good on you for taking that first step, it’s not easy to admit when something’s become a problem. It sounds like you’re really determined to turn things around, and joining AA is a solid move.

@Todd_196 how has this week been for you? We are all here to support you. I hope you're on the way to a happier life

It's been a much better week even though I've drank a little bit.

I'm not proud of it and I'm actually very angry with myself. However, the upside to it was that I didn't get drunk and black out.

I've realized too that I need to go to therapy, I still struggle with many things in my life. But I recognize that and I'm willing to take that head on. I have an appointment with my therapist next week to get back on track.

I've also been eating much differently than I have been as of late. I'm back to mostly protein and very low carbs.

I've been walking daily, even though it's only for about a mile or so it's still better than sitting around. My energy level is rising and I'm putting more thought into what I'm doing physically, mentally and nutritionally.

Thanks to all of you that have given encouragement and shown concern. I appreciate it more than you may know.

I've let a lot of people down as of late, most notably myself, and know that people actually care is refreshing and empowering. So thank you!

I hear the GLP-1/GIP drugs (Ozempic, Wegovy, etc) can drastically reduce cravings for alcohol. If you have that combined with some regain could your surgical team prescribe perhaps?

And how have you done this week? Still better than before I hope. One day at a time, as with any journey. We've all done it with WLS.