John Sutherland

A British academic recounts the depths of his alcoholism during a career move from the UK to California, describing the collapse of his personal life, deteriorating professional stability, and increasingly dangerous drinking patterns. Harsh UK higher education cuts push him toward accepting a position at Caltech, where isolation and worsening addiction lead to self‑destructive behavior and a final crisis marked by blackout drinking and severe withdrawal. Realizing he is on the edge of irreversible ruin, he seeks help by contacting Alcoholics Anonymous.