*Jake Smith was hungover yet again as he scrolled through the morning news on his phone. A headline about UConn basketball coach Dan Hurley turning down a $70 million deal with the Lakers caught his bleary eye. As a lifelong basketball fan, the story piqued Jake's interest.

The article described how the opportunity to coach a living legend like LeBron James was 'tempting' for Hurley, but his reasons for staying at UConn were greater. Jake felt a pang of regret, remembering his own promising basketball career back in high school that went nowhere due to his drinking.

This news triggered something deep within Jake. If Dan Hurley could reject such a massive offer to honor his current responsibilities, maybe there was still hope for Jake to get his life together. He thought about his long-suffering wife *Sarah and how he had let her down time and again with his alcoholism.

Sarah had been on Jake for years to get help, but he always made excuses. This time, something clicked. Jake showed Sarah the article and said, 'I need to be like Dan Hurley. I need to take control of my life again.' Sarah's eyes welled up - she had been waiting so long to hear those words.

After some research, the couple discovered the Hofman Hollis online program called 'Stepping Into Action.' The first step emphasizes taking an honest look at one's life and the havoc addiction has wreaked. 'You gotta call it like it is, man,' Jake said ruefully. 'My drinking has destroyed everything good I ever had.'

'We've got a long road ahead, but I believe in you,' Sarah replied. Honesty is the most important thing in recovery, as the experts say. It's gonna be tough, but we'll take it one day at a time.'

Some addiction clinicians caution that online programs can't replicate the power of in-person group meetings and personal accountability. However, other specialists argue that quality online recovery tools can be a great adjunct, especially for rural areas lacking nearby support resources. Jake knew he had to give it an honest try.

'Maybe this Dan Hurley thing was a sign from above that I needed to finally get serious,' Jake said. 'Turning my life around won't be as easy as he makes it look on the court, but I've hit rock bottom enough times to know I don't have any other choice.'

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