A Worcestershire grandfather who spent his earliest years hidden in an attic before moving to a notorious children’s home will celebrate the launch of his powerful memoir at a special event this weekend.
Patrick ‘Paddy’ Fox, 75, has poured a lifetime of secrecy, trauma and resilience into a book that traces his journey from severe neglect to building a loving family and a successful business.
The memoir, written over two years, offers an unflinching account of his childhood inside Father Hudson’s Homes, where he endured trauma, fear and isolation but also found moments of kindness and friendships that helped him survive.
Six Hail Marys and a Bag of Chips charts his early years of neglect, his time in care, homelessness as a teenager, and the determination that eventually led him to build Lights Out Productions, a manufacturing company now more than 40 years old.
The book also reflects on the love he found later in life with his wife Erica, and the family he never imagined he would have.
Mr Fox, of Inkberrow, said he wrote the book “for thousands of kids around the world” who lived through similar experiences.
He said: “I had to be totally honest, raw and open my heart. If my story reaches someone who’s been through something similar, I want them to know they’re not alone.”
Publisher Marcia M Spence described the memoir as “raw, funny, heartbreaking and uplifting,” praising Mr Fox’s candour and resilience.
A book launch will take place on Saturday, October 3 at Southcrest Manor Hotel, in Redditch, from 7pm, offering readers the chance to meet Mr Fox and hear more about the story behind the memoir.
The evening will include readings, conversation, and a chance to buy signed copies of the book.
The memoir is published by Marcia M Publishing House. To find out more about the launch and order tickets, which are limited, search Six Hail Marys and a Bag of Chips on Facebook.
