She thought her job was to fix everyone else—until recovery showed her, she was the one who needed healing.

In this unforgettable episode of The Cup of Joe Show, we shine a light on a side of recovery that often goes unheard—the families and loved ones of alcoholics and addicts. Meet Melisa S., who’s been walking her Al-Anon journey since July 2000.

Growing up in Southern California in what she calls the “C.I.A.”—Catholic Irish Alcoholics—Melisa learned early how to keep secrets, play chameleon, and lose herself in people-pleasing and fixing others. Her story takes us through the chaos of loving someone in active addiction—federal raids, a marriage marked by infidelity and drug abuse, even a moment of rage that landed her in handcuffs.

Through recovery, Melisa discovered she wasn’t a victim but a volunteer. She learned to let go, face her fears, and rebuild her life from scratch with humility, courage, and faith. These days, she leans into gratitude, sponsors others, and relies on practical tips you will not want to miss to stay grounded.

Melisa’s journey is raw, humbling, and inspiring—a reminder that recovery isn’t just for the addict, but for everyone touched by the ripple effects of addiction.

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📌 Mentioned in this episode:

• 📖 Courage to Change and Just for Today

Cup of Joe Show explores the journey of recovery from alcohol and drug addiction—one story, one conversation, and one step at a time. New Episode Every Thursday at Noon.