[Traum]

I find it a little surprising that the wife doesn't know about John's drinking habits, or how much he drinks.

When I used to drink (casually), my parents always knew. There is the alcohol breath, and then my clothes would take on some sort of alcohol smell as well since apparently I'd sweat something out that smell different.

At any rate, does "John" have any children, esp if they are relatively young? I've heard of / known a few people who had some health issues / scares that really made them reflect on their life choices and habits. In these people's case, one of the frequently cited reasons for them to change their (bad) habits was because they still wanted to be around watching their kids grow up, or be there as their kids grow up.

IMO it is more rare for the husband to watch to change / give up some sort of (bad) habits for the wife, or even for himself. But he'd be willing to do it for the kids.

Is that an angle you can work with?

(On the other hand, I feel like alcoholism and gambling are both habits that are very difficult to quit.)