Loose Women panellist Denise Welch has celebrated a huge milestone with her followers as she marked 11 years since cutting booze out of her diet with an emotive Instagram post describing her journey from battling with the "cruel and frightening illness" to a happy and healthy life.
Sharing a photo of her amid her battle with alcoholism next to a glowing picture of her now, Denise wrote an empowering and supportive message in which she detailed how her husband Lincoln also joined her on her new sober lifestyle.
The post read: "11 yrs sober today!!! Giving up my disastrous relationship with alcohol changed my life, my husbands life and my children’s lives. Plus the lives of all who love me.
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"It wasn’t easy. Addiction is a cruel and frightening illness. But together @lincolntownley and I realised that we were destroying many lives including our own and we did it."
The 64-year-old actress and television personality added: "I now have a wonderful marriage that is the foundation of my life. Our kids are happy and I hope those of you struggling find the strength to stop. If alcohol no longer makes you happy, if your drinking makes others lives miserable it’s time to stop. There is help there if you need it."
Shortly after sharing this with her 385 thousands followers, fans and friends rushed into her comments to commend her on the achievement - to which Denise said: "I’m honestly so touched and overwhelmed by your comments and support. Thank you so much."
Nadia Sawalha, Denise's fellow Loose Women star, wrote: "I am in awe .. one day at a time for 11 years ! And look what it’s brought you! So happy for you both". Nadia's husband Mark Adderly penned: "Denise this is f*****g fantastic news and an astonishing achievement - I love the way you have continued to be a spark of joy and excitement without a drop of alcohol in you!!! A huge huge congratulations - sending a sober hug."
Ruth Langsford, another member of the Loose Women team, also said: "You’re amazing and such a great help to others", alongside Alison Hammond who commented: "Well done babes , very proud of you."
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