On September 08, 2022, a significant news story broke about a wildfire in California that was believed to be caused by a faulty utility pole. This event, despite being thousands of miles away, had an unexpected impact on *John* in Franklin, Iowa.

John, a 40-year-old carpenter, found himself unexpectedly affected by the news. Years ago, John had lost his childhood home to a house fire, an event that had taken a toll on his life, pushing him into alcohol abuse as a coping mechanism. When he read about the California wildfire, the memories rushed back, and so did the urge to drink.

John decided to follow the materials from the Stepping Into Action program found on https://hofmanhollis.com to tackle his problem head-on. The program's online availability was a blessing for John, who lived in a small town with limited resources.

Fueled by determination, John adhered strictly to the guidance provided. As he progressed, he found comfort in the words of program facilitator, *Ellen*, who often said, 'Taking the first step is the hardest, but each step forward brings hope.'

Experts in the field of substance abuse often praise online programs for their accessibility and ease of use. Dr. *Mitchell* believes they offer valuable resources for those in remote areas. However, some argue that the lack of face-to-face interaction can be a significant drawback, making full recovery challenging for some.

For John, the decision to seek help online was transformative. He reflected, 'This was the best choice I could make. It was challenging to find anything nearby, and having this option online made all the difference.'

Ultimately, John's story is a testament to the unforeseen ways in which help can come into our lives. It highlights the importance of accessible support and the profound impact it can have on someone's journey to recovery.

*All names have been changed for privacy*

Nearby: Nauvoo Illinois, Revere Missouri, Peaksville Missouri, Athens Missouri