Thirty years ago, few people talked openly about breast cancer. Now its an open topic.

Today few people talk about their alcoholism, fearing being stigmatized. But it's known now that alcoholism is a disease.

Like cancer, there is treatment. And like cancer there can be recovery.

I hosted an event for a local women's alcohol treatment center called Residence XII, and asked all those who are either alcoholics or whose lives have been touched by an alcoholic to stand up. Nearly all 600 in the room were standing. Not surprising perhaps, given the event involved a treatment center.

But what is surprising, is that people are standing up and being counted. They realize the importance of standing up to get treatment, but also standing up to spread the word alcoholism is a disease, not a moral failing. And that alcoholism can be treated. This represents a good and healthy change in our community.

If you would like information on the treatment center visit www.residencexii.org

For information on alcohol in Washington state go to http://depts.washington.edu/adai/pubs/wastatcolor.pdf

For information on women and substance abuse go to http://alcoholism.about.com/od/women/

Thank you.