Featured Member of the Club: Nan S.

I was driving around in my car.  I had been drinking for 3 solid days and was sure I was going to be fired from my job for no call/no show. I wanted to go to the bar, but I knew that the chances of blacking out again were very high and in that divinely-inspired moment of clarity I knew that I had no control over what would happen to me if I picked up another drink. It was 1981. . .

I had heard about the Club on State St., in an earlier attempt to quit drinking, so I drove there. A man behind the counter said, “I’m sorry but were closed.” (This was before we had noon meetings, or 5:35 meetings.) I guess the look on my face was enough to alert him to my troubles because he called someone who helped me get into treatment that afternoon.

Thank God the Club was there, the door was open, and there was help inside.

I hope that will always be true!  The Club is a unique place and I’ve learned not to take its existence for granted! The Club is not a treatment center, it is not a church, it is not even AA. Its mission is to provide a safe space where help and support for recovery exists every day of the year!

When we lost the lease on the State St. Club and had to find new digs, the Higher Power guided us all the way. That is how, in 1987, we acquired our current property at 995 N. Maple, and we’ve never had to worry about losing a lease since! I still marvel at the fact that we own 4 beautiful acres in the midst of this vibrant city!

My story of sobriety involves a couple of relapses along the way but when I’ve been willing and able to reach out for help, the Club and the very special people in it, have been there. May my heart always be full of gratitude for that.

Today, by the grace of God, I have been sober for 12 years and my home group is at the Club. I currently serve on the Board of Directors at the Club and several committees. I also work behind the counter and absolutely love the opportunity to see so many of you coming in for meetings. You are the highlight of my life and are the reason I am enjoying my retirement years so much! The Club rocks!

WAC Newsletter – March 2019