As we enter a second year of Covid, and at time of writing a second national lockdown, the restrictions this has imposed on our lives has for many of us created spaces – unexpected and unwanted, but unavoidable. For me, the easing of the busyness of the usually hectic Foundation meant I had the time I’ve never had to write the book I’ve never written. It wasn’t until these spaces arrived in my days and weeks that I knew what that book should be. It’s the book I wish I’d been able to read before my sixteen-year-old son Dan died taking MDMA. And on what should have been his 24th birthday it will be published by Sheldon Press.
Would it have made a difference? Could it perhaps have meant he did, in fact, get to come home again, and go out again, and grow up, and live the long and happy life we’d always hoped – assumed – prayed would be his? That I’ll never know, but what I do know is that the past seven years have been driven by a commitment to do my very best by every other parent, and their children, to make sure they stand the best chance I can muster for them. This book is part of that mustering.
I wish I’d known: about young people, drugs and decisions combines the unfolding story of Dan’s death with information, advice and lots of practical tips for parents. The concept of blending memoir with information and advice has come from having spoken to thousands of parents and carers and tens of thousands of teenagers across the UK over the years since Dan died. At these workshops, we’ve witnessed the power that storytelling consistently has in strengthening the impact and effectiveness of all the important drugs education content. I wish I’d known is a parents’ workshop in a book. Sadly for poor old Dan, his story illustrates so many aspects of what can lead any bright, big-hearted, much-loved teenager to take a risk that has the potential to go many shades of wrong, right up to the worst of all wrongness.
Dan’s story is an illustration, a case study, but also a reminder of why this is all so important. And what’s important for parents is having up-to-date, evidence-based information about the effects and risks of drugs, understanding adolescent decision making, being aware of all the potential legal pitfalls, knowing how to have those conversations, what to do if you have concerns, and where to find more information and support if you need it.
Have a look at our website to read some of the very kind and encouraging things some incredible people have written about it. Have a look there too if you’d like to pre-order a copy. And have a look on 27 May for when it’s out and about.
Happy birthday Dan.
