COMPETITION: ‘From meth to marathons’ – an inspiring account for all

If you or a loved one have a bunch of unresolved vulnerabilities that need to be dealt with, you might want to take a look at what Costa Carastavrakis has to say. This tale of self-discovery, determination, openness and acceptance is called I Am Costa, and this is why you need to read it.

“Everyone struggling with addiction should read this book,” says Kuli Roberts, TV host and producer.

“I was lucky enough to get out before it completely destroyed my life,” says Carastavrakis.

“I have nothing to hide, my goal is to motivate other people struggling with something similar, but to have them search for their own resolutions.”

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Carastavrakis told Rekord about his journey to recovery.

In his thirties, he was living what he thought was his best life.

Addicted of crystal meth, Carastavrakis succeeded in maintaining a relatively normal way of life, upholding a stable job, participating in family events and even having a somewhat sustainable relationship. The sickness had him believe he had it under control.

“I woke up one morning; I saw what I was doing with my life and I felt tired of this side of myself. The secrets, the inability to function straight … it had me, and I was on my way out.”

After enrolling in a 12-week recovery programme for addicts, Carastavrakis got clean. It was meetings that took place in Johannesburg that save his life, and exercise.

“My boyfriend at the time was very active, and one morning I decided to join him and start running. I ran 5km and almost died, but I felt so incredibly good. That ended up being my saving grace, as I eventually completed the Iron Man triathlon.”

I am Costa was officially launched at Exclusive Books in Woodlands in August along with an inspirational talk called “I Am” .

I am Costa is available at Exclusive Books, Bargain Books, Reader’s Warehouse and CNA.

For more information, visit Carastavrakis’s website at www.thisiscosta.com or visit his Facebook page.

COMPETITION:

Rekord has two books to give away to our lucky readers. To enter the competition, fill out the entry form below and use “COSTA” as the keyword.