Hi Devlyn,
Thank you, I think I am too wordy and should learn to be more concise.
I have never been in an alcoholics shoes but may have the sense of what it takes to stay clear of alcohol. From about 1993 to about 2007 I had acid reflux, my GP didn't tell me food diet may be a factor & didn't mention alcohol could trigger my throat constriction & inhalers could dilate the air passage open. After a year and half I stopped taking a medication. I figured out the triggers on my own, alcohol was one, so I stopped alcohol until the symptoms went away & I very carefully worked my way back to alcohol from 2007 on. This takes a lot of will power to not drink when out with friends that are drinking. So I have been in your shoes briefly to have the courage to not take that drink.
Keep strong.
Hugs
Jamie