I Needed My Armour to Survive the Family Disease

I've been an Al-Anon member for eight years and recently moved from the big city to a small rural community. I knew I needed my armour to survive, so I found an Al-Anon group as soon as I arrived. Thank God. I experienced lots of anxiety regarding the move, new job, and new life. I went to a group and found something in my life that was the same!

A few months later, my partner and I were pleased to find out that we were pregnant. I shared this with my new Al-Anon family. We lost our baby three months later and it was the most difficult experience we've ever gone through. Thank God for Al-Anon! As soon as the members heard the news, they came to our aid and support. They allowed me to grieve and to cry during the meetings. Some members shared their experiences with similar losses. Again, I did not feel alone. I am so grateful for this program and for the members who are always there with a hug.

By Carla V., Manitoba
The Forum, June 2006