Addiction has the power to destroy relationships, careers and families.

But experts say sobriety is possible — and sometimes all it takes - is one decision to change the course of a life.

Ahead of "Drug Addiction Awareness day" later on this week, we're looking at the crisis in our country — along with the hope of recovery.

HOT1027's Tara Penny takes a look...

When South Africans think about addiction, they often picture the person using the drugs.

But behind every packet of cocaine, every hit of crystal meth and every bag of heroin is a vast criminal network making billions of rands - while profiting off human misery.

HOT1027's Tara Penny takes a look...

For many South African families, admitting there's an addiction problem is only the first hurdle.

The next is finding treatment they can actually afford.

HOT1027's Tara Penny reports...

A Sandton mother whose son battled addiction for almost two decades has written a book about her family's ordeal in the hope of helping others.

For every person battling addiction, there are often parents, partners and siblings fighting battles of their own.

HOT1027's Tara Penny reports...

Many South Africans see dagga as harmless.

But addiction specialists are warning that today's cannabis is not the same substance many adults remember from their youth.

HOT1027's Tara Penny reports...

Today, one of the greatest songwriters of the modern era turns 77.

From "Easy" and "Three Times a Lady" with the Commodores to solo classics like "Hello", and "All Night Long", Lionel Richie has sold more than 100 million records while writing the soundtrack to countless romances, weddings and celebrations.

HOT1027's Tara Penny takes a look...

A 14-year-old girl will finally get the eye surgery she needs to save her sight, a young law student can continue pursuing his degree, and animal shelters have had their food stocks replenished - thanks to the generosity of HOT1027 listeners.

It's been another rewarding week of making a meaningful difference through Hot Cares here on Hot1027 to the tune of R93 000.

HOT1027’s Tara Penny has more...

Today, Paula Abdul turns 64.

Long before she became the warm-hearted judge on American Idol, she was one of the biggest pop stars on the planet — a dancer,

a choreographer and singer who racked up six number-one hits and helped define the sound and style of the late 1980's.

HOT1027's Tara Penny takes a look...

Families living with addiction often find themselves trapped in a cycle of fear, guilt and uncertainty.

And while many believe they have no choice but to wait for a loved one to seek help, experts say that's one of the biggest myths surrounding addiction.

HOT1027's Tara Penny reports...

Today, one of the most distinctive voices of the 80s turns 65.

From "Yazoo" to solo classics like "Invisible" and "All Cried Out", Alison Moyet has sold more than 23 million records worldwide — all while refusing to play by the music industry's rules.

HOT1027's Tara Penny takes a look...