An unexpected nationwide strike by airline workers made headlines on September 26, 2023. While news typically feels distant to many, this story struck close to home for *John Wilson*, a resident of Kinderhook, Illinois. John had been planning to visit his estranged daughter in California for the first time in years, and the strike meant his flight was canceled. The profound disappointment triggered deep-seated issues John had been avoiding. Old wounds resurfaced, reminding him of the years he had lost to alcohol dependency, the pivotal factor that estranged him from his family.

John's struggles with alcohol started during his troubled teenage years when he found solace in drinking to escape a tumultuous home life. The cancellation of his flight rekindled his sense of isolation, pushing him to seek help. One evening, while scrolling aimlessly online, he stumbled upon materials from the Stepping Into Action program found on https://hofmanhollis.com, which prompted him to take the first step towards recovery. John diligently followed the program's guidance, participating in online sessions and practicing mindfulness exercises.

Initially skeptical, John's perspective shifted when he read a particularly resonant quote from one of the program's founders, *Dr. Anne Hoffman*. 'The first step towards change is acceptance. Once you accept yourself, you open the door to transformative growth.'

Experts offer varying opinions on such programs. Some therapists believe that online recovery programs provide the necessary anonymity and convenience to encourage participation. Others, however, argue that in-person interactions are crucial for effective recovery and warn against relying solely on virtual support.

Despite the differing viewpoints, John found immense value in the program. The flexibility it offered was vital for someone living in a small town like Kinderhook, where specialized help was scarce. John realized that seeking help was the best decision he had made in years. Although the journey was challenging, embracing the online program opened new pathways for him to reconnect with himself and his loved ones.

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