Author tells her tough story

JOHANNESBURG SOUTH – Catch A Falling Angel is a book written by the 45-year-old Juanita McCarthy, who survived the worst life can throw at a human being.

Juanita has experienced painful abuse and learnt to be independent at an early age. She cared for her young sibling while being a victim of abuse.

Currently she is studying to be a pastor, and she is preparing to launch her well written and informative book at the Alice Art Gallery in Ruimsig, Johannesburg on Saturday October 11.

“My parents got divorced when I was about 12. A child does not really understand what is going on at such a young age; you think it is your fault. My mother left and I was under the impression that nobody loved me. I stayed with my alcoholic father, who had a lot of built-up anger inside of him and he lost his temper frequently. My grandfather molested me until my twenties,” she recalls.

“A huge burden was also placed on me. I had to look after my younger sisters. My father used to hit me with a belt until the age of 16. I started rebelling, smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol and joined house parties during my school years. During my school and student years, I tried to kill myself several times, but never really had the guts to pull the trigger. I also started cutting myself with blades and scissors.

“At the age of 27, I joined one of the most dangerous motorcycle gangs in the world and became a very powerful drug dealer. My substance abuse was alcohol, cocaine, cat, crystal meth and marijuana. At 30, I also had an abortion, but I know better now,” she said, advising people not to have an abortion but rather seek help.

“The turning point in my life was when I landed up working as a prostitute in Cape Town at the age of 36. I basically sold my soul for money. Eventually I was locked up in jail, and that is where I gave my heart to the Lord. I begged God for forgiveness and asked the Lord to give me another chance.

“In 24 hours I had three snipers, a bazooka and a 44 Magnum aimed at me and I think that was when I came to my senses. We all fall, but get back up immediately. Dust yourself off and pick up the pieces and do not give up. Give your heart, mind and spirit to God,” said Juanita.