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A Newry man has published a book of poems and writings documenting his addiction journey, in the hope that it will inspire others. 'The Tears, Fears and Recovery Years' was written by Declan Moan who lived with an alcohol addiction for about 25 years but only confronted it around 7 years ago. He is adamant that Davina's Ark saved his life and this Saturday from around 10am to 4pm he will be on a stand in the Buttercrane Shopping Centre raising awareness of addiction and highlighting the services of Davina's Ark.
Declan will also be selling copies of his book with all proceeds going to Davina's Ark. Declan explained "It's about people outside of addiction trying to get an understanding. I don't think they call it an addiction, it's a disease. It's a deadly killer that's not recognised."
Declan added "I went through numerous rehab centres and nothing worked. Basically at my rock bottom, Davina's Ark saved my life. I attemped to take my own life about 5 or 6 years ago but they brought me back."
Since then he's ran marathons, done secret santa, has been on TV and the radio. He sees it as a big big way of saying thank you and giving back. The realisation that its not always straightforward probably helps. "I've had a couple of relapses in between but I was able to get myself back on the straight and narrow very quick whereas before my relapses would have lasted a week or more." Declan said.
Davina’s Ark offers hope and new opportunity to the many in our society who are afflicted and or affected by the curse of addiction. A shocking and sobering truth is that alcohol and drug misuse in our society is one of the biggest public health issues we have to address. There is not a single family in our society that isn’t somehow impacted by the negative effects of addiction.
Fear
Some are lucky and will see it through,
But some less fortunate, the unlucky few.
A lot think they've cracked it, and do it alone.
Then the next thing they know they've become unknown.
So if the day comes when your feeling low,
Don't let your emotions go into overflow.
If you get a trigger which you more likely do.
That's the time to connect with your recovery crew.
Never be afraid to express how you feel,
For it's the only way your mind will heal
I've been there myself wondering what the hell to do.
Thinking there's people out there that don't have a clue.
There's help out there you just have to look,
Before it's too late and your life in a ruck.
So pick up a phone or talk to a friend,
And then you might see your torture will end.
Check out davinasark.co.uk for more information about the charity.
