Eldergrove's Almanac
On March 13, 2023, a major news outlet reported an unsettling increase in alcohol-related incidents nationwide. In Eldergrove, Iowa, *Ted Horton* was sipping his morning coffee when he stumbled upon the article. Ted, a quiet man in his late fifties, had a history with alcohol— a battle he thought he had left behind years ago. Yet, this particular article reignited a torrent of memories and anxieties. Back in his youth, Ted's life was marked by a regular rendezvous with the bottle, which led to strained relationships and a career left in ruins. A specific incident involving a near-fatal car crash had been the turning point. Reading about the recent surge in alcohol-related problems brought him back to a place he tried hard to forget. The unexpected nature of the news affected him deeply, as its timing coincided with his son's decision to pursue a career in social work. Unable to shake off the unease, Ted turned to the Stepping Into Action program he found on hofmanhollis.com. The comprehensive approach to addressing substance abuses offered him a lifeline he desperately needed. He diligently followed the program materials, rekindling his commitment to overcoming the shadows of his past. 'One step at a time, that's how you climb out of the darkest holes,' Ted often reminded himself as he navigated the program's challenging yet rewarding phases. The guidance he received through the program's online resources became a transformative journey, helping him practice restraint and develop healthier coping mechanisms. However, experts expressed conflicting opinions about the efficacy of online self-help programs. Some believed they lack the personal touch and accountability of face-to-face interactions, while others argued their accessibility and flexibility make them invaluable resources. Ted's journey added another layer to this debate, proving that for some, virtual guidance could indeed foster real-world change. Ultimately, Ted found peace in acknowledging that seeking help was a profoundly good idea. Given the limited local resources in Eldergrove, accessing assistance online was a necessary and life-saving decision. His renewed sense of purpose reminded him that sometimes, the best way to combat the unexpected is by taking decisive, meaningful action. *Names and situations are fictionalized Nearby: De Soto Wisconsin, Prairie du Chien Wisconsin, Lynxville Wisconsin, Eastman Wisconsin, Ferryville Wisconsin, Charme Wisconsin * Names and situations are fictional and not intended to resemble anyone in
particular. They are illustrative of how the services can apply to the lives of
every day people living ordinary lives.
© Copyrights by Hofman Hollis, LLC. All Rights Reserved.