Deirdre Sinnott’s Story

Lost, five blocks from home? That’s what happened to me on one cold night in New York City. Why? Because I was drunk. It didn’t happen that way every night, but enough nights to make me finally pay attention. When I looked into the mirror the next morning, I suddenly saw the years that alcoholism was stealing from me. I was an alcoholic, dependent on drugs, depressed, and suicidal.

Eleven years ago I decided that I desperately needed help and I got it. I’ve dedicated my life to helping young people avoid the mistakes I made. I will bring a healing message that can prevent the devastating consequences of alcohol and drug abuse.

The simple truth is that I didn’t have to hurt myself and your students don’t either.

Once I got the message, my life transformed. I’ve spoken at gatherings large and small. I’ve become a published author, literary critic, and writing coach.

My upcoming memoir, chronicling my journey from victim to survivor, from alcoholic and drug abuser to professional speaker and author, is a thrilling and enlightening cautionary tale that young adults can identify with.

My goal is to bring to students the kind of information
that I never got.

Every now and then, when I was actively drinking and drugging, a message about addiction seeped into my consciousness. It took hold there, disturbing my inner addict.

I remember hearing that alcoholism was a progressive disease and I realized that the worst was still to come. When I saw someone on television discussing the depths that they sunk to while pursuing their drug of choice, my future flashed in front of me. I remember filling out every “Are You an Alcoholic” questionnaire  I ran across and always being disturbed by the category I fit into.

Bit by bit those pieces of information stuck in my mind until I could no longer deny my problem. If I had come in contact with the information earlier, I might have been spared years of pain.

My life serves as an example to others. My experience is a gift and it has a positive impact, showing your students that they don’t have drink or take drugs to have fun, get through problems or smother difficult emotions.

I can bring all that experience, recovery, determination, and hope to your school, college, university or group.

Deirdre Sinnott grew up in Utica, New York and attended Syracuse University. She earned a BFA in Acting/Directing from their prestigious program. She splits her time between New York City and the Catskill Mountains.

Ms. Sinnott is a memoirist, inspirational speaker, and literary critic who reveals the disturbing truths, outrageous behavior, and humbling circumstances that taught her how to survive unasked-for adversity. She is presently working on two full-length books. Her writing has appeared in Foreword Magazine, Cadillac Cicatrix literary journal, in several anthologies, The Catskill Review of Books, on various literary websites, and in a number of newspapers.

Call toll free: 866-852-3995 or email at ds@deirdrespeaks.com