In Memoriam: A Gutsy, Courageous Person

Betty Ford died Friday at age 93. There are many people who would not be alive today if it weren't for some of the amazing courage of this remarkable woman.

Back in 1976 she took a HUGE step by admitting to an alcohol and prescription drug problem. No one did that in those days. Not publicly, not when you are the First Lady. But just like she had done earlier with discussing breast cancer she took the steps out of the shadows. As a result the stigma of addiction and alcoholism began to decrease.

Yes, some of it may still be there. I have newly clean and sober people worry about that stigma all the time. But invariably, after several months, they come to realize that the stigma is just not all that powerful. To be open and honest about our own wrestling with addiction will more often than not get us support and congratulations for taking the needed steps.

Betty Ford did a great deal to make that possible.

Rest in peace, Betty. And thank you.