Al Unser Jr. Is Putting the Brakes on Alcoholism

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"But, again, I want to emphasize that there are so many options for treatment, because there are a lot of advances in terms of this disease," he noted. "AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) works for some people; it doesn't work for others. There's medication out there that works for people, along with counseling and therapy. Each person is different. And the whole basis of this is to learn about it, and learn what works for you."

Today, this father of six -- who ranks sixth on the all-time Indy win list -- says "it's awesome" to be both sober and racing again after a three-year hiatus. This Sunday, he'll be at the starting line again, competing in the race he first won back in 1992 and again in 1994.

Meanwhile, Unser Jr. is spreading the word that education and motivation are key to beating a crippling disease.

"Now I look back on it, and, without alcohol, I would've been a much better husband, a much better father, and a much better racecar driver," he said. "And I am so thankful that, today, I can say that I live outside the bottle, and life is wonderful."

More information

There's more on alcoholism at the U.S. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.