When the disease of alcoholism strikes the heart of a family, life gets very unsettled, confused, and often lonely. In “Lois Remembers”, Lois W. gives the reader an insight into a rosy world turned upside down by her marriage to an alcoholic. She does this with compassion, understanding and, ultimately, hope. The hope that she found as her alcoholic husband Bill W. struggled through the depths of his disease, its cruel impact on his wife’s well being, and to the discovery of a way out. This way out came through the fellowship of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The 12 Step recovery program that he and Dr. Bob put together from their personal struggles with their addiction to alcohol.

Her story is honest, and portrays how she toiled with the insanity of living with an alcoholic. She chose to support her husband with understanding and encouragement, and by not abandoning their marriage. The courage of making this choice would ultimately lead to the founding of a global support network for the family and friends of alcoholics, Al-Anon and Alateen. These organizations bring hope and a solution for living through and with the family disease of alcoholism - “to find contentment, and even happiness, whether the alcoholic is still drinking or not.” (Suggested Al-Anon Welcome).

Her writing stands out for its warm and personal approach.The included pictures are a touching illustration of the story. She shares the intimate moments that built their love and commitment. She shares the dark moments when the union looked as if it could be torn apart. Through all of this we learn the intimate details, events, and growth and founding of both AA and, then, Al-Anon/Alateen. Her insights, remembrances, and journey give the reader an appreciation for how difficult that journey can be and yet possible to take with the support, encouragement, and shared experiences of others dealing with an alcoholic loved one.

Whether the reader is living with the active alcoholic, has found hope in joining a local Al-Anon/Alateen meeting, or now enjoys a growing recovery and is curious as to how this all came about, Lois Remembers, will be an informative and enjoyable read.