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Should've Been Dead: Lessons from a Crack Addict Who Broke Free
“Just to warn you, he swears. A lot.” I prepped my high school class for tomorrow’s speaker.
“He had a crack addiction, was living on the streets, and ended up buying the same laundromat he used to rest in. He turned it into a million-dollar business.”
“What?!! No way! How’d he do that?”
“You’ll have to wait for his answer.”
After seventeen years of chasing after crack cocaine, Rory Londer was crushed by failure. He had loving parents and was on honor roll lists, but addiction is a switch that can flip inside anyone. He had eaten food from the trash bin and starved in ten-degree weather, trying to collect quarters for one more hit. Now he’s a millionaire, but this story is not a rags-to-riches tale. It’s about emerging from the shadows of guilt and shame.
This collection of twelve lessons from Rory’s life is a guide to feeling like a disappointment, finding yourself, and then fighting for the life you want. High school teacher, Sweta Patel, interviewed Rory over two years to capture how building connections with others saved him. And when she brought his techniques to the classroom to connect with the hard-to-reach student, it was clear, his lessons aren’t for the addict alone.
“He had a crack addiction, was living on the streets, and ended up buying the same laundromat he used to rest in. He turned it into a million-dollar business.”
“What?!! No way! How’d he do that?”
“You’ll have to wait for his answer.”
After seventeen years of chasing after crack cocaine, Rory Londer was crushed by failure. He had loving parents and was on honor roll lists, but addiction is a switch that can flip inside anyone. He had eaten food from the trash bin and starved in ten-degree weather, trying to collect quarters for one more hit. Now he’s a millionaire, but this story is not a rags-to-riches tale. It’s about emerging from the shadows of guilt and shame.
This collection of twelve lessons from Rory’s life is a guide to feeling like a disappointment, finding yourself, and then fighting for the life you want. High school teacher, Sweta Patel, interviewed Rory over two years to capture how building connections with others saved him. And when she brought his techniques to the classroom to connect with the hard-to-reach student, it was clear, his lessons aren’t for the addict alone.
292 pages, Paperback
Published December 23, 2023
216 people are currently reading
3221 people want to read
About the author
Sweta Patel
1 book11 followersSweta Patel has a master’s degree in English education from Florida State University. Re-engaging students who have experienced school failure brings her joy. She hopes Rory’s story will surprise and touch readers the same way it did her high schoolers. She lives in Rochester, Minnesota, with her husband and two children. Should’ve Been Dead is her first book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
December 28, 2023
I have been around recovery for over half of my life and the way Rory explains many of these scenarios and episodes really hit home!! He has an incredible perspective on recovery and what an inspiration to the people in his life he must be! Literally as I was reading this book, my father was diagnosed with Lung Cancer. What Rory shared has truly allowed me to face this new challenge in my life with a genuine positive perspective. I am learning to not only to be grateful for what I have, but hopeful for the future. Thank you for your inspiration!
December 5, 2024
You’re the man Rory!
A colorful story about addiction, hardships, family dynamics, love, sacrifice, medical illness and perseverance.
All anyone needs is a chance.
Chin up honey!
Thank you Sweta, for compiling Rory’s life and sharing your own experiences of learning, growing and helping others through teaching and your personal life.
A colorful story about addiction, hardships, family dynamics, love, sacrifice, medical illness and perseverance.
All anyone needs is a chance.
Chin up honey!
Thank you Sweta, for compiling Rory’s life and sharing your own experiences of learning, growing and helping others through teaching and your personal life.
January 15, 2024
Sweta did a great job on her first book! Rory’s story is powerful and I’m so glad she was able to share it with the world. As a school social worker, soooo much of this book tugged at my heart. Thanks Sweta, for sharing your talents and his story. ❤️
August 22, 2024
Wow.
An important read, especially and specifically for anyone also living in the Rochester bubble. I will reflect on Rory’s (and Sweta’s) stories and insights for a very long time.
An important read, especially and specifically for anyone also living in the Rochester bubble. I will reflect on Rory’s (and Sweta’s) stories and insights for a very long time.
July 8, 2024
Very well written. It’s an agonizing story with a message of hope. Thank you for sharing your story Rory!
January 20, 2024
This book is an incredible story of preservation and the human spirit. Rory’s story will captivate you and leave you rooting for him until the very last page.
January 25, 2024
I met Rory as a successful business and had the honor of being married on his beautiful property. Rory was my husband's sponsor and this past December he celebrated 9 years sober and clean. I think Rory's story is so important for so many reasons. Regardless of your childhood and upbringing addiction can happen. And not only did Rory recover but he has helped many others in the past almost 20 years of his sobriety. Rory's life didn't get better just because he got sober and he bravely shares how he faced stage 4 cancer and how he continues to grow who he is and what he does and he holds others up. And inspiring story of overcoming many years of addiction. An important read for those struggling with addiction, those in recovery and also for those that know someone in active addiction or recovery. Thank you Rory and Sweta!
September 13, 2024
Should’ve Been Dead is a gripping memoir that dives into the tumultuous life of a former crack addict who miraculously transformed his life from the depths of addiction to become a successful businessman. Written by Sweta Patel, with Londer's candid input, the book chronicles Rory Londer's journey from the streets to owning a million-dollar home improvement business, all while battling his demons and coming to terms with his past.
I enjoyed this book because I found the narrative to be raw, unapologetic, and often heart-wrenching. The book offers readers a visceral glimpse into the struggles of addiction and the relentless pursuit of redemption. It doesn’t shy away from the grim realities of addiction. Early chapters like "Moment of Crisis" and "Stuck Like Chuck" vividly depict Rory’s desperation, from robbing a gas station to surviving the terror of crack houses. These scenes are not easy to digest, but they are necessary to see what life was really like for him.
The writing pulls you into Rory’s world, where paranoia and fear are constant companions. The book also highlights Rory’s painstaking recovery. In chapters such as "Fork in the Road" and "Keep Your Side of the Street Clean," readers see him gradually rebuild his life. These sections are marked by small victories that slowly add up. The writing here becomes more reflective and offers a glimpse into Rory’s internal transformation. He’s not merely quitting drugs he is reshaping his entire existence. The emotional depth in these parts is profound and leaves a lasting impression.
What sets this memoir apart for me is its dual perspective. Patel, a teacher who invited Rory to speak to her students, doesn’t just observe his journey, she shares how it affected her life. This intertwining of narratives adds a unique layer to the book. It becomes more than Rory’s story and becomes a testament to the ripple effect one person’s life can have on others. Patel’s reflections add depth and makes the memoir more relatable and engaging.
Should’ve Been Dead is a story of resilience, transformation, and hope. Rory Londer’s journey is heartbreaking and uplifting and is a powerful reminder that change is possible no matter how deep one has fallen. This book will resonate with anyone seeking inspiration or understanding of the human capacity for redemption.
I enjoyed this book because I found the narrative to be raw, unapologetic, and often heart-wrenching. The book offers readers a visceral glimpse into the struggles of addiction and the relentless pursuit of redemption. It doesn’t shy away from the grim realities of addiction. Early chapters like "Moment of Crisis" and "Stuck Like Chuck" vividly depict Rory’s desperation, from robbing a gas station to surviving the terror of crack houses. These scenes are not easy to digest, but they are necessary to see what life was really like for him.
The writing pulls you into Rory’s world, where paranoia and fear are constant companions. The book also highlights Rory’s painstaking recovery. In chapters such as "Fork in the Road" and "Keep Your Side of the Street Clean," readers see him gradually rebuild his life. These sections are marked by small victories that slowly add up. The writing here becomes more reflective and offers a glimpse into Rory’s internal transformation. He’s not merely quitting drugs he is reshaping his entire existence. The emotional depth in these parts is profound and leaves a lasting impression.
What sets this memoir apart for me is its dual perspective. Patel, a teacher who invited Rory to speak to her students, doesn’t just observe his journey, she shares how it affected her life. This intertwining of narratives adds a unique layer to the book. It becomes more than Rory’s story and becomes a testament to the ripple effect one person’s life can have on others. Patel’s reflections add depth and makes the memoir more relatable and engaging.
Should’ve Been Dead is a story of resilience, transformation, and hope. Rory Londer’s journey is heartbreaking and uplifting and is a powerful reminder that change is possible no matter how deep one has fallen. This book will resonate with anyone seeking inspiration or understanding of the human capacity for redemption.
April 19, 2024
I devoured this book in a day and a half—it's absolutely captivating! Written by Sweta Patel in collaboration with Rory Londer, a former addict turned beacon of hope, the narrative chronicles Londer's remarkable journey from the depths of addiction to a life dedicated to helping others in similar predicaments. Throughout the book, Londer's close encounters with death serve as stark reminders of the fragility of life.
Moreover, the book sheds light on how Londer's experiences inadvertently inspired Patel to find innovative ways to connect with her troubled students. It's a testament to the power of empathy and understanding.
This book isn't just for those grappling with addiction—it's a profound reflection on life and how we interact with others. It's reminded me to look beyond myself and empathize more deeply with those around me.
In short, this book is a must-read for everyone. Personally, it's left me feeling uplifted and more compassionate. I'm already planning to revisit it whenever I need a reminder of resilience and empathy. Patel and Londer have done an exceptional job of portraying the harsh realities of addiction and homelessness, offering invaluable insights for all readers.
Moreover, the book sheds light on how Londer's experiences inadvertently inspired Patel to find innovative ways to connect with her troubled students. It's a testament to the power of empathy and understanding.
This book isn't just for those grappling with addiction—it's a profound reflection on life and how we interact with others. It's reminded me to look beyond myself and empathize more deeply with those around me.
In short, this book is a must-read for everyone. Personally, it's left me feeling uplifted and more compassionate. I'm already planning to revisit it whenever I need a reminder of resilience and empathy. Patel and Londer have done an exceptional job of portraying the harsh realities of addiction and homelessness, offering invaluable insights for all readers.
January 6, 2024
A Riveting Journey of Hope and Resilience
Rory's story is not just a book; it's a profound journey into the heart of human struggle and triumph. It’s a tale that mirrors the complexity and the humanity of addiction, laying bare the intricate ways it impacts everyone. What sets this book apart is its raw, unfiltered depiction of the highs and lows of overcoming addiction. Rory's experience is a testament to the power of resilience and recovery. His journey, full of hurdles yet triumphant, serves as a reminder that success is not just about accolades but about overcoming the seemingly insurmountable obstacles life throws our way. The narrative is so engaging that I found myself not wanting the book to end, longing to remain in the world of lessons and reflections it offered.
Rory's transformation and his path to recovery highlight that it is never too late to change and that the bonds we forge with others are pivotal in this journey. It's a book that everyone should read, not just for its inspirational content but for its ability to make us reflect on our life choices and the power we have to change our narratives.
Rory's story is not just a book; it's a profound journey into the heart of human struggle and triumph. It’s a tale that mirrors the complexity and the humanity of addiction, laying bare the intricate ways it impacts everyone. What sets this book apart is its raw, unfiltered depiction of the highs and lows of overcoming addiction. Rory's experience is a testament to the power of resilience and recovery. His journey, full of hurdles yet triumphant, serves as a reminder that success is not just about accolades but about overcoming the seemingly insurmountable obstacles life throws our way. The narrative is so engaging that I found myself not wanting the book to end, longing to remain in the world of lessons and reflections it offered.
Rory's transformation and his path to recovery highlight that it is never too late to change and that the bonds we forge with others are pivotal in this journey. It's a book that everyone should read, not just for its inspirational content but for its ability to make us reflect on our life choices and the power we have to change our narratives.
December 29, 2023
What a truly inspirational story of recovery! I found myself emotionally wrapped up in this book and couldn’t put it down! This is a bold and brave story and a must read for anyone who has struggled with addiction or knows someone who has. Rory does a great job of laying out how addiction affected not only him, but his family and those he loved. It is a great story of aspiration and devotion and I believe Rory’s story will be used for the purpose of helping others. For anyone who feels they cannot face the challenges of addiction or recovery, Rory’s story will shine a little bright light at the end of your tunnel showing how you can feel helpless and lost and rebuild your life one step at a time. And he details how he was dealt the devastating news of having lung cancer, and how he overcomes that obstacle without giving up or using again. The profound transformation that took place from crack addict to a mentor is incredibly astonishing!
July 23, 2024
This moving and well-constructed memoir is a fascinating tale of how one can rise above addiction.
The book contains personal details and descriptions of how addiction changes who we are and the decisions we make. The content is handled with kindness and empathy and the overall message is one of hope.
I was particularly moved by Sweta Patel's personal section near the end where she shares how writing this book and listening to Rory's words changed her ability to connect with her struggling students.
The pacing is good, the story is compelling, the characters (who are actual people in this book's case) are interesting and complex.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy memoirs, who have struggled with addiction or who have close friends or family who have such struggles, and to folks who work with the public and encounter people with similar struggles in their work or personal lives.
Brilliantly executed book and highly worthy of the reader's time.
The book contains personal details and descriptions of how addiction changes who we are and the decisions we make. The content is handled with kindness and empathy and the overall message is one of hope.
I was particularly moved by Sweta Patel's personal section near the end where she shares how writing this book and listening to Rory's words changed her ability to connect with her struggling students.
The pacing is good, the story is compelling, the characters (who are actual people in this book's case) are interesting and complex.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy memoirs, who have struggled with addiction or who have close friends or family who have such struggles, and to folks who work with the public and encounter people with similar struggles in their work or personal lives.
Brilliantly executed book and highly worthy of the reader's time.
February 7, 2024
Drug ruins people's lives but if you have strong will and desire to change your life around, overcome all the hurdles that are thrown at you while you are trying to get free of the addiction, you can be FREE! This book is a compelling portrayal of how an addict overcomes his weakness and finds strength to break the shackles of addiction. The main character is confronting, challenging, sometimes downright hard to read and accept but the true power comes from the overwhelming emotion it evokes in the addict and in the reader as you viscerally react. It is a story that relates to you in some form whether it is a drug addiction, alcohol addiction, or any other addiction. It is very well depicted by the author that brings to life the journey from an addict to a mentor. The book is powerful, heart-rending and unabashedly honest, and a must read.
January 2, 2024
Author Sweta Patel lays out a compelling narrative that delves into the real life story of Rory Londer. The story takes you into the world of addiction and follows Rory's life as he navigates the complexities of substance abuse.
A true tale of despair, resilience, and ultimately, triumph.
The story portrays the Rory's struggles with raw authenticity. As the story unfolds, readers witness the profound transformation from a desperate addict to a beacon of hope for others. The story not only sheds light on the world of addiction, but emphasizes the power of human will and the possibility of redemption.
"Should've Been Dead" is a testament to the human spirit, offering the reader inspiration and empathy for the world around them.
A true tale of despair, resilience, and ultimately, triumph.
The story portrays the Rory's struggles with raw authenticity. As the story unfolds, readers witness the profound transformation from a desperate addict to a beacon of hope for others. The story not only sheds light on the world of addiction, but emphasizes the power of human will and the possibility of redemption.
"Should've Been Dead" is a testament to the human spirit, offering the reader inspiration and empathy for the world around them.
December 28, 2023
I couldn’t put this book down!! Not only was I eager to find out how Rory's story would unfold, but I also loved hearing about the author's evolution in her personal and teaching journey as she applied Rory's life lessons. I applaud the author for trusting her gut instinct to write the book and her perseverance and discipline in making it happen. I thank Rory for having the courage to share his life story and for being an inspiration to others! I definitely recommend this book to all but especially to those who have struggled with their own addiction or that of a loved one. Also a great book to share and discuss with High School students. They will love Rory!
January 2, 2024
I couldn't put it down! I felt so connected to Rory through Sweta's writing. His story is about overcoming addiction but there are also so many life lessons to take away here as well. The writing is captivating and Rory's story is so beyond inspirational. What resonated with me the most was when he talked about how an addict is so determined and will do anything to get that high; saying you can do hard things - look what you did to get that drug and now how to channel that into something positive. Rory and Sweta made me realize nothing will change unless you do. It lit a fire in me … highly recommend!!
December 31, 2023
What does life change look like for you? For some, it’s getting into shape for others like Rory it’s stepping up and using your story to impact others. Rory’s story could have stopped with being sober but he wouldn’t allow it. He uses his story and lessons learned from other addicts to help make a life changing, positive impact on so many others. I truly believe that if you’re looking for guidance in personal change or change of a loved one, read this book and use the contents to inspire and educate.
January 4, 2024
This book will change your life. Rory's story will humble you, inspire you and challenge you to grow in ways that I have never been challenged before. His constant drive for something better as he struggles with grips of addiction is remarkable. His story will provide hope to the many people who are affected by addiction in the United States. The persitance and staying true to who he is will transform any readers lives. I can't speak highly enough of this book and the life changing lessons it will give you. You will find yourself thinking about it for months after.
January 7, 2024
Rory's story is one that everyone can connect with in some way or another. Patel's writing is captivating and draws the reader in. Once you start reading you will not want to put it down. Rory's story is raw and real and you feel as though you are right there witnessing it unfold. As a teacher myself, I found this book, the reflection questions, and the format so powerful as a tool for connecting with students and the greater community. Truly a resource for recovery and substance use programs and teachers yet an impactful read for all.
March 6, 2024
This is a great read for anyone with an addiction or anyone with an addict in their life. Rory courageously tells his experience falling into addiction and his struggle to regain his sobriety as only one who lived it can tell. To the broken addicts losing hope, through this story you can see that recovery is 100 percent attainable. Rory did the work from the ground up and you can as well. This book would be a great assigned reading for a social studies class and it even has a teaching section in the appendix.
I give this book my highest praise.
I give this book my highest praise.
December 30, 2023
This is not only a true story of one man. It is an exploration of life and addiction through the compelling journey of Rory. Patel's narrative weaves together a tapestry of life lessons, offering invaluable insights into the complexities of overcoming addiction. Rory's story serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating resilience and the transformative power of human spirit. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and a deeper understanding of the triumphs that can arise from the darkest moments. Patel's compassionate storytelling and Rory's giving spirit create a narrative that resonates long after the last page is turned.
December 30, 2023
Rory’s story is inspirational, powerful, and full of hope. So many struggle with addiction or love someone who struggles, and this book really captures the humanity and complexity of the disease. Rory shows readers that addiction doesn’t discriminate, it’s never too late to change, and above all, we need connections and relationships with others.
What an amazing first book from a talented writer!
What an amazing first book from a talented writer!
January 1, 2024
I couldn't put this book down. I found myself rooting for Rory and understanding more about the power that addiction can have. The life lessons found in each chapter have stayed with me months after reading the book. I loved how some of the small moments in Rory's life were shared and the honest depiction of the ups and downs of his journey. This is a book you need to put on your To Be Read list.
January 5, 2024
What an inspirational story!!!
This is a tale of perseverance, a champion who emerged victorious after facing multiple defeats, and an individual who found a new life without having to die. The story progresses slowly at first but gains momentum once it delves into Rory's world of drug addiction. I really appreciate how the author beautifully depicted every detail of Rory's life events, making it feel like Rory was sitting before me telling his story.
This is a tale of perseverance, a champion who emerged victorious after facing multiple defeats, and an individual who found a new life without having to die. The story progresses slowly at first but gains momentum once it delves into Rory's world of drug addiction. I really appreciate how the author beautifully depicted every detail of Rory's life events, making it feel like Rory was sitting before me telling his story.
January 15, 2024
Excellent first book by Sweta! Rory’s story is very powerful and Sweta writes it beautifully. Rory has gained a lot of wisdom from his rough life as a crack addict. I always enjoy reading real stories about people from Minnesota. It was fun to know the exact places he was telling about. I also enjoyed the afterword where Sweta explained the impact on her teaching and life after spending a year on sabbatical writing his story. Five ⭐️’s! I swear a lot too, so that was an extra bonus!
June 6, 2024
This is absolutely an excellent book. I started reading it and could not stop. Knowing Rory Londer, who is an awesome person, when you read this and realize how he was and where he is today, it is truly amazing. Everyone should read this book to show the determination it took to be where he is today. Beautiful life and beautiful wife - I am proud of both of you. You deserve all of this and more.
November 28, 2024
In this book Sweta Patel tells the story of a young man overcoming addiction. It was not only powerful but also profoundly moving. Sweta’s “as told to” writing style beautifully captured the rawness, resilience, and hope that comes with such a journey. I knew Rory was a changed man but I didn’t anticipate the impact that Rory’s story would have on Sweta, or myself. Kindness matters. How we respond to others makes a difference. Compassion for others is essential.
December 28, 2023
"Should've Been Dead" is a must read for anyone struggling with addiction, a medical hardship or just hoping to find inspiration. Rory's story is powerful, honest and real. His vulnerability resonates with readers and reminds us of the importance of basic human connection. The world truly needs more books like this!
December 30, 2023
This is a gem of a read! Inspirational, motivational, and life changing. The author did a wonderful job of sharing the real life success story that is Rory. I couldn’t put the book down. I had to know how this man turned it around. I felt myself peeling life lessons right off the pages. Thank you for this book! I see it being helpful to so many people.
January 5, 2024
Hang on! I You are on a roller coaster ride into one man’s journey through life, the lessons he learned, the connections he made and how he has greatly influenced every person he comes in contact with. The author’s life has been changed by putting into practice lesson’s learned from Rory. To know Rory is to learn from him and love him! A hard to put down read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews