On today’s show we discuss the different relationships between loved ones and addicts. My guest is Marie Cullen.Cullen is the author of the memoir, The Year of the Dogs, which tells the story of her deep love for Luke and of his tragic relapse back into addiction. . Cullen has spoken at schools, treatment facilities,substance abuse treatment conferences and in the realm of substance abuse prevention venues all over New England. Her memoir opened a dialogue within that community that continues to this day. In May 2005, Cullen was awarded the distinction of Community Member of the Year by Rhode Island Communities for Addiction Recovery Efforts.

A portion of the proceeds from her book benefit To Write Love On Her Arms, a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for people struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery.

Currently, Cullen’s memoir is the featured Book of the Month on In The Rooms, an online community for people in recovery and their
loved ones.