“A Sobering Reckoning: An Adelaide Family’s Battle Against Alcohol’s Grasp” In a quiet suburb of Adelaide, the Kandel family faces an uphill battle against the devastating consequences of alcohol addiction. Dhanapati Kandel, a father and once a heavy drinker since the age of 15, recently received a diagnosis that has left his family reeling: liver cirrhosis. A Hidden Menace As Dhanapati recounts his journey, the gravity of his situation becomes apparent. For decades, he consumed nearly a bottle of whisky daily, unknowingly pushing his body to its breaking point. It wasn’t until a harrowing medical episode involving vomiting blood that he realized the extent of the damage. Liver cirrhosis, a condition resulting in permanent scarring of the liver, can be fatal if left untreated. It’s a grim reminder of the silent dangers lurking behind excessive drinking. In Australia, it’s one of the top three causes of this debilitating disease. A Family’s Resolve With a newfound sense of urgency, Dhanapati expresses deep regret over his drinking habits and wishes he had quit earlier. His family rallies around him, determined to help him navigate this difficult chapter. The Australian Alcohol Guidelines recommend no more than 10 standard drinks per week for men and women. Yet, Dhanapati’s story underscores the harsh reality that many grapple with alcohol use disorder (AUD), often in secret. Recognizing the signs of AUD is crucial. These may include needing increased alcohol intake to feel intoxicated, difficulty controlling or stopping drinking, neglecting personal and professional responsibilities due to alcohol use, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop drinking. Raising Awareness and Funds As the Kandel family prepares for Dhanapati’s surgery, slated for mid-February, they’ve launched an online fundraiser to help cover the costs. But their mission extends beyond financial aid; they hope their story will serve as a cautionary tale about the dangers of excessive drinking and the importance of seeking help if struggling with AUD. Their journey is a sobering reminder that every drink has a consequence, and sometimes, those consequences can be irreversible. It’s a message they want to share with the world, urging everyone to consider their relationship with alcohol and make informed decisions about their health. As the Kandels stand together in the face of adversity, their story serves as a testament to the power of family, resilience, and the human spirit. And while their road ahead is uncertain, their determination to raise awareness and help others avoid a similar fate is unwavering. In the fight against alcohol addiction, stories like the Kandels’ are invaluable. They offer a glimpse into the stark reality of AUD and underscore the importance of open dialogue and support for those affected. As the world continues to grapple with the complex issue of alcohol use and its impact on public health, the Kandel family’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the personal toll it can take. Their story is a call to action, urging us all to reflect on our choices and consider the far-reaching consequences of alcohol misuse.
Malayalam News Portal