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The Big Nacao Drop 

On 17th September 2023 I’m taking part in the ‘Big Nacao Drop’ to help raise money for the National Association for Children of Alcoholics (Nacao). 

This involves abseiling down the 376-foot ArcelorMittal Orbit in London, the largest structure in the UK. 

As someone who isn’t a fan of heights, dangling above London’s skylines is a pretty daunting thought! But I’m joining the team taking part in this challenge to support Nacao - a charity that’s very important to me and my wife.  

Any money raised will help Nacao continue to provide their vital services to children of all ages in need of their support. 

The charity 

Nacao provide information, advice and support for children affected by a parent’s drinking and those concerned for their welfare. 

Approximately 2.6 million children (that’s 1 in 5) in the UK are negatively affected by a parent’s problem drinking. That’s a massive number. Nacao provides a lifeline to these children. 

Nacao’s free, confidential helpline offers people a safe, non-judgmental space to talk to an understanding listener about what’s going on and how they’re feeling.

As a small charity, Nacao relies on voluntary donations to fund the essential work they carry out. 

My story 

Now you know a bit about the charity I’m raising money for, I’d like to add a brief story of my reasons for taking part in this challenge. 

Sadly, both my parents were alcohol dependent and drank to extreme levels. This started when I was around 8 or 9 years old. It made growing up a distressing and frightening experience. I didn’t know what I was going to find when I got home from school each day. The environment at home was unpredictable, chaotic and unreliable. 

I took on the adult responsibilities my parents neglected and had to develop coping strategies to survive. The secrecy around their alcoholism left me feeling alone and isolated. There was often nobody to speak to which only made the feelings of isolation worse. 

I tried my hardest to get my parents sober, but nothing worked. I thought it was my job to fix them and make them turn their lives around. At the time, I didn’t understand why they couldn’t stop drinking. I wish I had known Nacao existed back then. 

When I was 14 my dad died, and two and a half years later my mum died as a result of chronic alcohol misuse. 

The adversity I experienced as a child in an alcoholic home has resulted in health difficulties for me. But it has also shaped me into the person I am today. It’s possible to overcome the impact of parental alcoholism and live a fulfilling, happy life. 

I hope by opening up about my story I can help Nacao in their mission to raise awareness and reduce the shame and stigma surrounding alcoholism. 

Any donations would be greatly appreciated. 

Thank you very much!
Stephen