Abby House, a 36-year-old mother from Gloucester, has revealed a distressing account of her addiction to codeine, which began after she underwent weight-loss surgery. Initially prescribed the opioid pain relief after having a gastric sleeve, Abby spiraled into a cycle of dependence, ultimately taking as many as 10 pills a day. This dependency not only took a toll on her physical health but also severely impacted her personal life, as she became increasingly isolated from her children and neglected essential aspects of her self-care.

As Abby battled her addiction over four years, she recounted moments of desperation and regret. She described counting down the minutes until her children went to bed to indulge in what she called her 'addict mode.' In her pursuit of relief from the struggles she faced, she began concealing her stash of pills and keeping track of her supply, leading her into a dark place of secrecy and shame. The financial burden also compounded her issues, resulting in thousands of pounds in debt exacerbated by her compulsive behavior.

Abby's story highlights a critical issue surrounding the medical prescription of opioids and the potential for addiction, particularly post-surgery when patients may be vulnerable. Her experiences contribute to the ongoing conversation about the need for monitoring and support for individuals after significant medical procedures to prevent such addictive behaviors from taking root. The implications of Abby's story stretch beyond personal tragedy, pointing to broader societal challenges in dealing with opioid dependence and the necessity of addressing addiction through compassionate care and better healthcare policies.