From Two Litres of Gin Daily to Half Marathon: Woman's Journey to Sobriety
Holly Dyson, a 28-year-old woman from near Southport, Merseyside, who was once told she had just six months left to live after consuming two litres of gin a day, is now preparing to run the London Landmarks Half Marathon this Sunday. Her participation aims to raise funds for Alcohol Change UK, an alcohol harm charity, as she approaches nearly three years of being alcohol-free.
A Descent into Dependency
Holly battled alcohol dependency for six years during her 20s, a struggle that began after a traumatic experience at university. She revealed that for three years, she did not consume any liquid other than alcohol, often starting her day with a pint of cider. Her dependency escalated rapidly in her mid-20s, transitioning from evening prosecco with family to experiencing severe physical withdrawals without a drink.
"I truly, wholeheartedly was going to die. I was told I was going to die. I believed it and I had no hope," Holly told the Press Association. "But here I am, nearly three years later, working in addiction and running a half marathon. These are all things that I could only dream of and now I'm actually doing it."
Living in Fear and Facing Mortality
During the peak of her addiction, Holly lived in constant fear, unable to leave the house without hiding bottles of wine in her bag. She was hospitalized multiple times, suffering from severe liver disease. In 2023, after vomiting blood and becoming critically ill, doctors delivered the grim prognosis: she would die within six months if she continued drinking.
"Even that didn't stop me. It upset me but I didn't care. I'd kind of accepted the fact I was going to die because I can't stop this," she admitted, highlighting the depth of her addiction.
Breaking Stereotypes and Raising Awareness
Holly is speaking out to challenge negative stereotypes surrounding alcohol addiction. "I'm not your stereotypical alcoholic," she asserted. "I was a young girl when I got trapped in that cycle and I think stereotypes can be a barrier to people seeking and getting help."
She emphasized that alcohol addiction is often shrouded in stigma, which prevents open discussion and support. By sharing her story, Holly hopes to encourage others to seek help and demonstrate that recovery is possible.
A New Life in Recovery
Now working as a support worker for Change Grow Live, Holly uses her personal experience to assist others battling addiction. Just hours before her interview with PA, she was leading a walking group, showcasing her commitment to helping others.
Her journey to sobriety has also reignited her passion for fitness. "When I was drinking, I did nothing. All I'd do is lie in bed and drink. So, when I got sober, getting my fitness back was really important and I've always, always loved running," she explained.
The Half Marathon as a Symbol of Hope
The London Landmarks Half Marathon represents more than just a physical challenge for Holly. It is a testament to her recovery, a way to give back to the community, and an opportunity to raise awareness about alcohol harm. Her participation symbolizes the transformative power of sobriety and serves as an inspiration to those struggling with similar issues.
Holly's story underscores the importance of addressing alcohol addiction with compassion and understanding, breaking down barriers to treatment, and celebrating the milestones of recovery.
