Recovery Unfiltered

Through Her Eyes: What It's Like to Love an Alcoholic


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What happens when the spotlight turns to those who've weathered addiction's fiercest storms—not as alcoholics themselves, but as the wives who stayed? In this powerful episode, hosts Larry and Rob invite their wives, Katie and Bonnie, to share their side of the recovery story.

Katie reveals how family vacations became sources of resentment rather than joy as everything centered around Larry's next drink. "I had just become independent... doing my own thing," she explains, detailing the subtle isolation that crept into their marriage. Meanwhile, Bonnie shares her initial denial, believing her husband couldn't possibly be an alcoholic because "he never missed a day of work" and "never missed a paycheck"—until a hospital visit where doctors asked Rob if he had "a friend who could walk your daughter down the aisle, because you'll never make it."

The conversation takes unexpected turns as both women describe discovering hundreds of hidden bottles, witnessing medical crises, and making difficult decisions about their futures. When Larry entered treatment during COVID, Katie faced skepticism from counselors who claimed her husband "hadn't bought into the program," creating new worries about their financial stability and path forward.

Yet behind these hardships emerges a profound story of transformation. Both wives unhesitatingly prefer the men their husbands became through sobriety—men who learned to feel deeply, communicate openly, and love authentically. As Larry shares, "The love I have for her now is just... I never felt that before."

Whether you're supporting someone in recovery or navigating your own journey, this intimate glimpse into marriage after addiction offers both comfort and hope. The road isn't easy, but as these couples prove, relationships can emerge from addiction's shadow stronger and more genuine than ever before.

Thank You for Joining Us.. Please share with friends. If you or anyone you know is struggling with alcoholism please reach out to us. We can get you help. [email protected]

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Recovery UnfilteredBy Rob N Larry