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WATCH: From prisoner to musician to novelist, Gary Cunningham’s story is extraordinary

Published 12:54 10 Oct 2017 BST

Tony Cuddihy
WATCH: From prisoner to musician to novelist, Gary Cunningham’s story is extraordinary

Homelife

Gary Cunningham's story is proof that anyone can turn their life around.

Author Gary Cunningham is the subject of a new docu-series from FLYEfit, looking at inspirational figures from Irish society and how they marry physical and emotional wellness. In this piece, Gary talks about his experiences as a prisoner of Mountjoy in Dublin and the events that prompted him to write his bestselling memoir 'Joys of Joy: Finding Myself in an Irish Prison'. The Dubliner talks about the firm grip alcohol held over him and how, when he lost his income during the recession, his alcoholism only got worse. Gary was incarcerated for the sale and supply of cannabis but describes how it was his time in prison that ultimately saved his life, and led to him finding renewed purpose in words, music and staying mentally and physically fit. On World Mental Health Day, this is as inspiring as it gets.

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Gary Cunningham

Mental Health

WATCH: From prisoner to musician to novelist, Gary Cunningham's story is extraordinary