Alcoholism doesn’t discriminate. It touches families, communities, and even those who dedicate their lives to saving others. In this powerful episode of Real Recovery Talk, firefighter Matty Johnson shares how his struggle with alcohol addiction nearly cost him his life—and how recovery gave him a second chance.

👉 Watch the full episode on YouTube here

Alcoholism in the Fire Service—and Beyond

Matty grew up in a culture where drinking was normalized. By his teens, alcohol had become his escape from anxiety and social struggles. Later, in the fire service, alcohol was everywhere—celebrations, retirements, funerals, even just another day off.

Like so many who live with alcohol use disorder (AUD), Matty appeared “high functioning.” He was working, training, showing up for others, and still holding relationships together on the surface. But inside, his alcoholism was progressing fast.

Common signs of alcoholism Matty experienced included:

• Drinking daily and in larger quantities.

• Hiding alcohol and lying about consumption.

• Planning life and vacations around where he could drink.

• Declining mental health, depression, and isolation.

• Severe physical symptoms—including bleeding from esophageal varices caused by liver damage.

The Health Consequences of Alcoholism

Alcoholism is not just about drinking too much—it’s a progressive, chronic disease. Matty’s body began to fail:

• He was hospitalized multiple times for vomiting blood.

• Doctors warned him his liver was failing.

• He faced stage 4 liver failure and was given only months to live.

This is the devastating truth of alcoholism—it doesn’t just erode relationships and careers; it destroys the body from the inside out.

A Turning Point: Choosing Recovery

Despite multiple interventions, Matty resisted treatment. Like many with alcoholism, denial was powerful. But when faced with the reality of death, he finally entered treatment—and this time, he embraced it fully.

Through therapy, group support, and time in a treatment facility, he learned that alcohol wasn’t his only way to cope. Recovery gave him the clarity and strength to rebuild his life.

The ultimate miracle? Matty received a life-saving liver transplant. Against all odds, he survived, returned to the fire service, and is now nearly three years sober.

Lessons from Matty’s Story

Matty’s journey highlights truths about alcoholism that families and individuals need to hear:

• Alcoholism is not weakness—it’s a disease.

• High-functioning alcoholics are still sick. Being able to “hold it together” doesn’t mean alcohol isn’t destroying the body.

• Recovery is possible, even at rock bottom. With the right treatment, tools, and support, people can come back from the brink of death.

• Families matter. Having loved ones step in, intervene, and support recovery can be the difference between life and death.

If Your Loved One is Struggling with Alcoholism

You don’t have to go through this alone.

💻 Watch the full episode with Matty on YouTube 
👥 Learn more about our Family Reconnect program—a 12-week course with weekly Q&A calls and a supportive community for families
📞 Book a free call with the Real Recovery Talk team to get personalized guidance: [Insert booking link]

Final Thoughts

Alcoholism takes lives every single day—but it doesn’t have to win. Matty’s story is proof that recovery is possible, even when the odds are stacked against you. If you or someone you love is facing alcohol addiction, take the step today. Help is available.