Bill Wilson

Bill Wilson, born William Griffith Wilson on November 26, 1895, in East Dorset, Vermont, would go on to become one of the most influential figures in the field of addiction recovery. He had a tumultuous upbringing, with his parents abandoning him by the time he was just ten years old. This early experience of abandonment would play a significant role in shaping Wilson's life and future work.

Wilson's struggles with alcoholism began in his early adulthood, and by his mid-thirties, he was drinking excessively. After hitting rock bottom and being hospitalized for alcohol-related issues, Wilson experienced a spiritual awakening that would set him on the path to sobriety and inspire the founding of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA).

In 1935, Wilson co-founded Alcoholics Anonymous along with Dr. Bob Smith, another recovering alcoholic. Together, they developed the Twelve Steps program, a set of guiding principles for recovery from alcoholism that has since been adopted by numerous other recovery programs around the world. Wilson's own experiences and insights formed the basis of these steps, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, spiritual growth, and helping others.

Wilson's work with Alcoholics Anonymous revolutionized the approach to treating alcoholism and addiction. By advocating for mutual support and accountability among individuals in recovery, Wilson and his colleagues created a community-based model of healing that has since helped millions of people worldwide achieve sobriety and lead fulfilling lives.

Aside from his work with AA, Wilson was also a prolific writer and lecturer. He published several books on addiction and recovery, including the seminal work "Alcoholics Anonymous," commonly referred to as the "Big Book," which outlines the principles and practices of the Twelve Steps program. Wilson's writings continue to inspire and guide individuals in recovery to this day.

Throughout his life, Wilson remained dedicated to helping those struggling with addiction. He traveled extensively to promote the work of Alcoholics Anonymous and share his message of hope and healing. Wilson's commitment to service and his belief in the power of community support have left a lasting impact on the field of addiction recovery.

Bill Wilson passed away on January 24, 1971, but his legacy lives on through the millions of individuals who have found solace and transformation through the Twelve Steps program and the principles of mutual support that he championed. His contributions to the field of addiction recovery continue to be celebrated and honored by countless individuals and organizations dedicated to helping those affected by alcoholism and other addictions.