Unfortunately, a close member of my family suffers from alcoholism. 
I'm sorry to hear that. Alcohol usually affects the brain, heart, liver, pancreas, and immune system more than other parts of the body. Does your family member have any problems due to alcohol?
Yes, I think her liver is starting to show the effects. She's been drinking long term- over 20 years. 
That's really unfortunate. Its even more unfortunate that if she doesn't stop the alcohol is capable of damaging all the organs in her body
I know. She's tried to stop drinking but can't seem to do it. I'd like her to go to rehab but she is unwilling at this point. 
Well, at the end of the day theres nothing anyone can do unless that person themselves wants the help :\
That's right. I think it's up to her to decide when it's time. It can be hard to live with though!
The risk of cancer, irregular heartbeat, cirrhosis of the live, and all the other problems it can cause are enough to scare me away
I like a drink but I seem to know when to stop, I wonder what's different with an alcoholic?
strongly desired, usage results in not fulfilling responsibilities, usage results in social problems, usage results in health problems, usage results in risky situations, withdrawal occurs when stopping, and alcohol tolerance has occurred with use. Risky situations include drinking and driving or having unsafe sex, among other things. Alcohol use can affect all parts of the body, but it particularly affects the brain, heart, liver, pancreas and immune system. This can result in mental illness, Wernicke–Korsakoff syndrome, irregular heartbeat, an impaired immune
with many other health problems including memory disorders, high blood pressure, muscle weakness, heart problems, anaemia, low immune function, liver disease, disorders of the digestive system, and pancreatic problems. It has also been correlated with depression, unemployment, and family problems with an increased risk of domestic abuse.
Gender and parental history of alcoholism and binge drinking has an influence on susceptibility to alcohol dependence as higher levels are typically seen in males and in those with a family history.
Prevalence.
Nearly half of