Usually when I get to know someone very well, then I find out about the real being they are as defined by their hardships. It seems that everyone has their path to walk and that everyone has their struggles.
The difference is what you choose to make of them. And look at you. You can be proud. Look at your improvement. And again you are going to see it in another 10 years as well.
Keep going strong!
Indeed Zak, hardship creates a man.