Once an Addict - Book
The Autobiography of Barry Woodward
For some years now, Barry has been thinking about writing his Autobiography. However, he wanted to wait until he had been a Christian for a significant amount of time, so that when he did write it, the book would have much more of an impact.
Barry often ties in his amazing story when communicating the Good News, but in reality, he has only ever told the headlines of his life story. Once an Addict goes into more detail about his life, it takes readers into the underworld of drug dealing, addiction, crime, and imprisonment; it also provides individuals with a first-hand insight into Manchester's city nightlife and music scene. Along the way, readers are introduced to some of the most extraordinary characters that populate the drug culture.
Here is an extract from the chapter entitled, 'Cold Turkey':
"When I came out of Strangeways I went back to our flat in Hulme. Joey, my supplier, heard that I was out and came round to see me. He brought a new type of heroin with him and gave me a sample to try.
So, while Joey was there I injected myself with it, and because I hadn't had any for a while it was too much for my system and I "OD'd (Overdosed)." I went blue in the face and my eyes rolled into the back of my head. Any heroin overdose has the potential to be fatal, and the best remedy is to put the person in a bath of cold water, or inject them with salt water. Joey freaked out because he had never seen anything like this before, but Lisa was there and she knew what to do. She ran into the bathroom and turned the cold water tap on full; she then told Joey to slap me in the face.
Joey then started slapping me as hard as he could to bring me round. Lisa shouted from the bathroom, and Joey picked me up, carried me into the bathroom and threw me into the freezing bath, fully dressed. I remember coming round with all my clothes on. I was shivering and freezing, but at least I was still alive..."
This book is not for the faint hearted!
Authentic Media are the publishers and the book is available in Christian bookshops, or direct from the Proclaim Trust for £5.
"Once an Addict takes you to the heart of a world of crime, drugs and addiction but fortunately does not leave you there ... this 'can't put down' book will have you shocked, surprised but ultimately relieved that there is hope even in the most despairing of circumstances."
J.John - Philo Trust