To the editor:

Dr. Joe Douglas is correct about the stumbling blocks many alcoholics face in obtaining rehabilitation treatment — just one of the many social problems society faces and seems never to be able to “solve,” no matter what political party holds the reins of government.

However, Dr. Douglas has made no mention of the immediate availability of Alcoholics Anonymous, men and women who trod the debilitating road of alcoholism and who are available around the clock for an alcoholic who has indicated he/she is ready for a “treatment program.”

“Paul” does not need to go home alone to drink and to try to survive while he waits for an opening. And he doesn’t have to worry about what it will cost or if he can pay for it. Alcoholics Anonymous charges not one red cent for their help and are highly respected as a program that “works.”

Grace Cooper,

Lawrence