My name's Bill and I'm an alcoholic.  I go to the all addictions PAN Fellowship Lapworth meeting.  I first attended 18 months ago.  My life had become miserable and I realised drink was the problem.  I didn't know what to expect when I went to my first meeting and I found the people there warm, friendly and everyone seemed in good spirits.  I was made very welcome and walked out feeling better than when I walked in.  I have seen people in despair make progress to a happier and more contented life. Its a fabulous group of people, some with many years sobriety to the newcomers.  Everyone is valued and I'm grateful I found this group when I did.  I couldn't recommend it higher. 

My name is Eileen and I am a very gratful alcoholic in recovery.  When I was 43, my Dad died suddenly and tragically and from not being a drinker at all, within 18 months I was diagnosed as a full blown alcoholic. I began drinking to avoid the pain of grief.  My life rapidly went from one of daily happiness and normality, to complete chaos, confusion and constant fear.  Everything fell apart and my life was unmanageable.  I had to come into Recovery to save my life, as I was a hairs breath from losing everything, as well as the risk of dying.  7 years ago, my recovery from this disease started and things have improved beyond recognition.  I have my life back, my peace of mind back and a daily program that keeps me living in the moment.  My life has been enriched with new friends, fellows who understand me and a purpose to wake up everyday.  The hardest thing in Recovery was taking that first step through the door into the room that would save my life and after that, the love in the rooms did the rest.  I wouldn't change a thing.

My name is Andy.  I am an alcoholic, drug addict, gambler.  I arrived at the door of PAN Fellowship Lapworth nearly 19 months ago and that was the Wednesday night my life changed for the better.  I was so low, depressed and full of fear, but as I entered the room, I was greeted with smiles, warmth and a hug, that made me feel safe and wanted for the first time in a very long time.  I left that meeting that night after having listened to everything shared and realised I was not alone.  The support of this meeting and people in it kept me sane and strong and wanting to come back week after week.  The strength and love in this room is second to none and I will be forever grateful for all the PAN family has done for me and my loved ones as now I am blessed and will try to carry the message of recovery wherever I can.

My name is JD, I'm an addict.  I identify this way as PAN Fellowship Lapworth allows me to be me, loves me and is in my opinion the most welcoming fellowship around, with strong emotional sobriety.  As I am an addict, I am capable of using anything in my addiction from sugar to cocaine and heroin.  I have been coming to  PAN for around 8 years and I can say for myself it's where I feel the presence of my higher power the most.  I went from being in the absolute grips of addiction to somehow getting 24 hours behind me.  Thanks to this group, I believe I can build on my foundation and learn from others how to keep going, thanks to you all.