"Alcohol addiction"

I self referred to Cgl services in Cambridge in January 2020 feeling desperate to get help with my alcohol addiction which was spiralling since the death of my son from a drug and alcohol overdose in July 2021. From the first phone call I felt a sense of relief and a tiny bit of hope for the future as the person on reception was very reassuring and empathetic.

The second stage was an assessment of my alcohol usage and an outline of me, over the phone, for an hour. A week or so later l attended Mill House for a face to face assessment which included questions about my eventual goal and they clearly explained processes of how the service worked, what systems are available which included the groups, courses and timetables for everything. All staff are empathetic, knowledgeable, non judgemental and informative with out any bias. 

After attending groups face to face and on zoom my key worker liaised with my gp for blood results and after engaging with all available help (including alternative therapies such as acupuncture) I had an appointment with the nurse Janice. I was medically assessed and she explained about the detox programme and the options available to me. As I had been trying unsuccessfully to reduce my intake , an MDT meeting was held and it was agreed that a home detox was to be my best option as I am my husbands carer and was reluctant to leave him. 

In preparation for the detox I began a course with cgl in foundation for change. The nurse arranged everything necessary for my detox and very professionally she went above and beyond to ensure it went ahead, smoothly and supported me through out along with daily checks from her and my key worker. 

As I write this I am 3 days post detox 9 days alcohol free after drinking heavily for over 20 years and daily drinking for at least 10 years. I know its early in my journey but I am optimistic that I will remain abstinent with the tools I have learnt from cgl, the continuing support from their services and as a result of the wonderful care from all the amazing staff and volunteers and a special thanks to Janice. 

I highly recommend this service to anyone desperate to change, grow, live and live full and useful lives again. 

Thanks to all involved and the people who help with the funding of this special service. 

😁😁🙏🏽🙏🏽