Within five years after Mack W. Metcalf and his estranged wife, Virginia G. Merida, split a $34 million winning lottery ticket, both were dead -- him of complications due to alcoholism and her to a possible drug overdose. In a New York Times article, "Instant Millions Can't Halt Winners' Grim Slide" James Doa tells their tragic tale.

In 2003, three years after winning the lottery, Metcalf died at age 45 from his chronic alcoholism. On Nov. 23, 2005, Merida's body was found decomposing in her bed, authorities believe as a result of a drug overdose, proving once again that money and good fortune can't cure alcoholism and drug addiction.

See: Instant Millions Can't Halt Winners' Grim Slide

More Information:

• What Do We Mean By Alcoholism?
  
• Frequently Asked Questions About Alcoholism
  
• The Difference Between Substance Abuse and Addiction
  
• Drug Abuse Frequently Asked Questions
  
• Do You Have a Alcohol or Drug Problem?