Local author Monique Robin Ackers launches powerful memoir on addiction and redemption

Monique Robin Ackers, a valued team member at YesPlay, has released her debut memoir I Survived to Tell The World: A Mother's Journey from Drugs to Redemption, which chronicles her remarkable journey from the depths of addiction to spiritual redemption.

The book, which launched on April 3, at Exclusive Books in the V&A Waterfront, offers readers an unflinchingly honest account of Ackers' struggles with substance abuse following the devastating loss of her father when he was just 42 years old.

"I never thought I would lose my dad at such an early age," Ackers revealed during a recent interview. "While I don't blame his death for my choices, it triggered a rebellious phase where I turned to drugs to cope with the grief."

What sets Ackers' story apart is not just the candid portrayal of her descent into addiction, but the powerful narrative of recovery that she attributes entirely to her faith. After experiencing a life-threatening heart attack that served as her wake-up call, Ackers embarked on a spiritual journey that ultimately led to her sobriety.

"Rehab's not going to help—you're going to come out of rehab and go do it again," Ackers states with conviction. "Allow God into your life, and He will help you. You don't need to wait for something big to happen."

The memoir also highlights the crucial role that Ackers' mother played in her recovery. Even when doctors were doubtful about her survival, her mother maintained unwavering faith, insisting: "My child's going to make it."

In a remarkable testament to the therapeutic power of writing, Ackers penned her entire memoir in a single 12-hour session.

"I wrote my pain empty," she explains. "It helped me so much."

Through her book, Ackers hopes to reach others struggling with addiction. "If I can help just one person, it will mean a lot," she says. "I hope they read my book and realise this is not who they want to be or how they want to live."

I Survived to Tell The World: A Mother's Journey from Drugs to Redemption is priced at R250 and is now available for purchase at leading book stores.

Tania Johnson, HR Manager at YesPlay, expressed the company's pride in Ackers' achievement:

"We are immensely proud of Monique's courage and determination in sharing her story with the world," says Johnson.

"Her journey from darkness to light is not just personally inspiring but resonates deeply with anyone who has faced seemingly insurmountable challenges. This book stands as a powerful testament to the human spirit. Everyone at YesPlay has been moved by Monique's authenticity and strength, and we believe her message will touch countless lives.