David, you are such a good soul, always doing so much for everyone and not just on this forum. I wish there was a magic formula I could give you to help your friend. Love doesn't do it. The alcoholic has to WANT to quit and even if he wants to, it does not always work. There are some things you cannot change. You either accept them or change yourself. For me, it was divorce (after 20 years). I learned that alcoholics are often immature but very intelligent and charming in their relationships in order to keep their addiction alive. My ex was one of the most intelligent and charming! I knew of an AA meeting where several alcoholics would meet and go drinking after every meeting. Maybe a counselor could help your friend discover if there is something in his past or in his childhood that fuels his addiction.