Excerpts from the book

Preface

I’m sitting at home in my study, at my desk, staring at the blank computer screen, thinking about how to begin my book. I have serious doubts about making this book public, because I’m not a writer, I have no experience, and I’m well aware of my limitations in this field.

The motivation to write this book actually came from the listeners who have attended my talks throughout South Tyrol. Over the past few years, people at these talks have repeatedly told me that I should write a book about my life, as it could help people struggling with drug addiction and their families. In addition, such a book could serve a preventative purpose and be helpful to many people. Various professionals in addiction prevention, doctors, and youth workers I've spoken to also believe it would be important for a book like this to be published.

At the beginning, I was very skeptical and uncertain, facing a decision that I didn’t take lightly. I questioned myself: Would anyone really want to read my story? Would I be able to express my experiences in a way that others could understand—and maybe even benefit from? The thought of opening up about my past, with all its painful chapters, was overwhelming. Still, the encouragement I received and the hope that my story could make a difference slowly gave me the strength to move forward.