If I were more religious, I would say that that sort of alcoholism is a demon possession

Hell yes, I definitely believe in the vodka demon - in the past I've said and done things during a vodka blackout that have been so alien to my sober personality that I've been uttery convinced that something had possessed me. Entirely my own fault for drinking so much spirit my consciousness fled and left my brain open to the influence of 'other' spirits, however.

It would be wonderful if having a grandchild gave your mum a reason to try to stay sober. I've wondered that about my dad a few times - if either me or my brother had sprogged by now would he have less reason to drink his life away?

BTW I'm really proud of the way you've been dealing with your mum lately, I wish I had half that strength to confront my dad about his demons. **hugs**