...By Henry George for TDPel Media.
Annette Kinahan’s life was shattered a decade ago when her 32-year-old son, John, tragically passed away.
In January 2013, he was found in a pub restroom with a needle in his arm.
Today, Annette shares her story as part of a three-part documentary series in Ireland called “Gaelic in the Joy.”
Through this series, she sheds light on her son’s addiction and the enduring financial burden she continues to bear, even ten years after his death.
Debts and Threats:
In the documentary, Annette reveals the ongoing struggle she faces in paying off her son’s debts.
She discloses that debt collectors have subjected her to harrowing threats, including encounters with a hammer and a gun.
Recounting her son’s path into addiction, Annette recalls, “When he was 17 or 18, he started messing with hash.
Then it progressed to tablets.
He never had any money for anything.” She reflects on her own naivety, admitting, “I must’ve been the most gullible mother in Dublin.
I believed everything he told me.”
Raising Awareness:
Annette bravely shares her story to raise awareness about the devastating impact of addiction on innocent family members.
She recalls a chilling incident when a gangster arrived at her door demanding a €5,000 debt her son owed.
Annette’s life took a terrifying turn when she was threatened with a gun over another loan.
Working exhausting 12-hour shifts in a hospital, she recounts her desperate efforts to appease these dangerous individuals.
Despite trying everything in their power, the grip of heroin proved stronger.
An Uncomfortable Encounter and Seeking Discipline:
In the second episode of the documentary series, co-host Philly McMahon and Rory O’Connor find themselves dissatisfied with the lack of accountability exhibited by the Mountjoy prisoners.
Determined to deliver uncomfortable truths, Philly invites Annette to meet the team within the prison walls.
Here, Annette shares the heartbreaking details of her son’s death, emphasizing the solitary and tragic circumstances in which he was found.
As discipline remains an ongoing issue, Rory enlists the help of Ultimate Hell Week chief instructor Ray Goggins to instill discipline among the prisoners.
In an effort to foster change and bridge the gap between ex-prisoners and the Solas care after-prison group, Philly and Rory organize a challenging game.
Conclusion:
Annette Kinahan’s participation in “Gaelic in the Joy” serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of addiction and crime on innocent family members.
Her story highlights the long-lasting financial burden she bears and the threatening encounters she endured while attempting to settle her son’s debts.
Through her bravery, Annette aims to raise awareness and ignite conversations surrounding the profound impact of addiction on individuals and their loved ones.
“Gaelic in the Joy” airs tonight at 9:35 PM in Ireland, providing an opportunity for viewers to empathize and reflect on the challenges faced by families affected by addiction and crime.
