Editorial Review

"As a psychiatrist, putting myself in someone else's shoes has always been my routine. But this is more. It's like putting on his shoes plus his contact lenses so I could actually see and travel the world the way he did. Somehow, after reading this, I felt more connected to my patients than ever. Thank you, Jake, for sharing. Your story is far beyond what I expected. I personally think this should be a reading assignment for psychiatric residents."

Prof. Kamolvisa Techapoonpol, MD

Head of Psychiatry Department

Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at Vajira Hospital, Bangkok

Dear readers,

As I already mentioned on the back of this book, I'm not using the name 'Dave Kardee' to hide anything. You will learn the full reason for my use of that name through this series of letters, which form a heartwarming, thought-provoking, and somewhat uncomfortable journey. These letters invite the reader to reflect on the importance of connection, empathy, and kindness in our lives.

I know that many people out there have faced even worse circumstances than I did. I know what it's like to be hurt by the people who are supposed to care for you. When I shouted for help, my voice was ignored. With that in mind, there is only one thing I can say to others now: never give up. You might not be doing your best right now, but you are doing your best based on what is available to you in the moment, and that's okay.

I want to encourage you to thrive and overcome all the challenges and obstacles you may face. I know that these challenges may seem so overwhelming that you feel like you're not going to make it. That said, this story is not going to be rosy, like The Fault in Our Stars. I mean, that book somehow made even cancer look like fun.

It would be reckless and clumsy for me just to bash my mom, a justice system, a country, or anything else at this point since it will offer you no value for your time. We invest our time and take risks every day, so this book will show you how not to repeat the mistakes that I lived through. For the most part, these mistakes were made by others, my path chosen for me through a simple lack of basic due-diligence.

My hope is that Australia Academy will resonate with anyone who has ever felt a sense of belonging and an unwavering commitment to exploring the complexities of the human experience. I wish for you to enjoy my work, learn, and vigorously climb to the top and into the future.

Sincerely yours,

Jake Vajarodaya