John – Gadens Stemmer

I like telling my story; it makes me reflect on things and puts my life into perspective. I also think you could call it public education – especially when I’m out walking with young people.

I’d like to turn the dark experiences in my life into something positive.

What do I talk about?

I was always full of energy as a kid and was sent off to sail the world’s oceans.

My time as a young sailor led me into deep water – both literally and mentally.

It was at sea that I tried heroin for the first time, aged 16.