So many vibes to your brother, and getting-the-help-he-needs-now~ma Tep. And, no, the Big Sis worrying doesn't go away. You are such a good one; he could have none more better.

Also, I keep reading the words "knitting bender" and imagining someone doing complicated martial arts moves that result in boulder cozies and scarves on trees.

Tep, I'm sorry your brother's going through the ringer. It's just miserable for him to have to endure it by himself right now.

I'm so sorry, Teppy. I've seen how bad it can be and I wish he were in the hospital. Is there a local AA number? They might be able to send someone to sit with him.

Hoping your brother is able to get the help he needs fast. He is doing a really hard and brave thing. And he is lucky to have you for support.

Is there a local AA number? They might be able to send someone to sit with him.

I talked to him a little bit ago. He has a buddy who has been sober for 8 months, and he's been talking to him on the phone. I asked if the buddy could come over, and he doesn't have a driver's license b/c of a DUI. But they've been talking on the phone a lot, so I think it's helping.

He's hanging on, but I'll be a lot happier when he gets to the hospital. He is *freaked out* by what he's going through, by just how bad it is. He mentioned the possibility of seizures and that, quite understandably, he doesn't want that. He's freaked out enough that he's chock-full of motivation to quit.

And I deeply regret googling "alcohol withdrawal," because apparently that was the actual cause of Amy Winehouse's death. I think?

So I'm a bit freaked out myself.

I'm glad your brother has someone near(ish) who understands the situation, Steph.

Oh, Steph!! That's scary. I do understand the pride thing, and yet it might be time to get over that. I'm glad he's talking to a friend who's been there. I hope his wife gets home soon.

JZ, I love your take on a knitting bender.

If it gets really bad, in your shoes I would look up local law enforcement's regular dispatch number, call them and explain that you have reason to believe your brother, a resident of that locality, is having a medical emergency but unable to call for help.

Lots of warm, comforting, non-hug thoughts to you, Tep. And lots of getting through this with neurons intact ~ma for your brother.

For Lush lovers [link] Lush has chosen to support the Wildcat Sanctuary of Minnesota with charity pots and some other neat things.

Steph, if it makes you feel better, Amy Winehouse did not die from alcohol withdrawal (although there was speculation of that at first because she had been sober for a bit). She died of alcohol poisoning: [link]