When it comes to gambling, the Super Bowl is one of the most bet-on sporting events. Many people bet on the game, and they don't even like football! Our Allison Lazarz shares the story of one woman whose football gambling was part of an addiction that changed her life.

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"I was nine years old when I started gambling. I started with a game called Pokeno, which is a form of bingo," said Barrett, a recovering compulsive gambler.

Then came poker, the lottery, and even betting on a sport she didn't even like-- football.

"Always the Super Bowl. I didn't know anything about it, could have cared less who played but I wanted some of the action to do with it," said Barrett.

With the Super Bowl hours away, Barrett is hoping to make people aware of the dangers of addictive gambling.

"For the sports gambler, the Super Bowl is the big one. They have got to put everything out there now, this is their chance to win it big if they're going to- their last chance. And, unfortunately for a lot of them-- I've seen where they mortgage their home, gone through every bit of money they have had," said Barrett.

Sports gambling was only a fraction of what Barrett would bet on.

Eventually, she was $80,000 in debt, and had people threatening to take legal action against her because of bounced checks.

"In order to save my marriage I had to get some help," said Barrett.

Barrett's story is featured on the State's Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services web site.

She's hopes that by sharing her story others will get the help that they need.

If you or someone you know may be suffering from a gambling problem you can call the Syracuse hotline number at (315) 458-0085.