Paula remembers her first drink. She recalls how all her inhibitions and fears would vanish as the booze crossed her lips. She was 13 and soon became a weekend drinker, following the example set forth by alcoholic parents and siblings. That, she says, gave a predisposition towards alcoholism. Reaching adulthood, pursuing a career in the business world, alcohol was prevalent at social gatherings and luncheons. But Paula drank even more often, keeping the coffee mug on her desk filled with vodka.