About the Author

My name is Davon McNeil and I was born in Boston, Massachusetts. Growing up, my mother was a single parent because my father spent the majority of my life incarcerated. At a very young age I was exposed to a way of life which many people call "the game." The very people who were responsible for my upbringing and wellbeing are the same ones who would stuff my diaper as an infant with balloons filled with an assortment of drugs-marijuana, pills, cocaine, heroin, etc.-and sneak them into various prisons for my father, who used the money he made from selling these drugs to survive. At 12 years of age, when most kids my age were riding their bicycle or playing video games, I was on the street comer selling crack cocaine and carrying guns. And on September 16, 2003,1 was tried and convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to second-degree life which means I will go before a parole board after serving 15 years of my life in prison. But instead of becoming angry and bitter, I utilized my time to become a better person instead of a better criminal. I made a conscious choice to change my life for the better. I'm proud to admit that during the 14 years I've served I have avoided being a part of any physical altercations with another inmate or officer. I spend 100% of my time becoming a better man. And I am committed to spending the rest of my days on earth dedicated to bringing awareness to youth and being of service to others.