The Unwanted Gift: journey from abused child to martial art master

By Don Mackenzie

Unwanted Gift is the raw, unfiltered story of a boy born into darkness - and the man who clawed his way into the light.
Raised in the harsh care system of 1970s Scotland, Don Mackenzie was subjected to years of abuse, trauma, and silence. What followed was a lifetime of internal battles - hidden behind smiles, success, and a relentless drive to prove he was worthy of love, of life, of anything at all.
Told with unflinching honesty, this powerful memoir is not just about pain - it's about purpose. From the depths of CPTSD to the discipline of martial arts, from breakdancing on stage to giving voice to the voiceless, Don's journey is one of grit, growth and deep self-reflection.
This is a story for anyone who has ever felt broken. A story of hope for those still in the fight. A story that proves our past does not define us - what we do next does.
Because sometimes, the greatest strength comes from surviving what was never meant to be survived.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0FP3ZKN9V
• ISBN13: 9798294462734
• Release Date: August 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 266 Pages
• Weight: 0.59 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.0" x 8.0"