This week, we are blessed to talk with someone who is part of the inspiration behind this podcast, Melissa Huray. Growing up in Duluth, Minnesota, it was normal for Melissa to take sips of her Dad's beer when she climbed up on his lap or sneak swigs from the adults' red cups at a family party. As she grew into her teens, unrestricted drinking became a powerful experience that was impossible to control on her own.
For fifteen excruciating years-from age 15 to 30-Melissa subsequently battled alcohol addiction, broken relationships, disappointment, scrapes with law enforcement, and challenges in pursuing both education and employment. Most painful of all, perhaps, was the loss of her faith in God. After years of experiencing frightening blackouts, severe panic attacks, and painful physical and psychological symptoms, Melissa decided it was time to beat her addiction. It wasn't easy. After four years of relapsing, she was finally able to recommit her life to God and accept His gift of grace. As Melissa says, "His mercy saved me from myself."
Today, Melissa is a successful author, writer and host of The Hope Report.
Learn more about Neil, and his book Unmasked at neilgetzlow.com.
