Poonam spent her childhood in a village in India, enjoying a happy family life and success at school. With little knowledge of alcoholism, she was unprepared for life with the man she married, and she experienced much uncertainty and despair as she tried to cope with her husband's drinking. Eventually, on the recommendation of a colleague, Poonam found her way to Al-Anon. There she learned how to take care of herself, and soon began to live independently of her husband, pursuing her own goals. Now she lives a life that she describes as 'happy, joyous and free', dedicating much of her time to helping others.