Hard times for Gazza

His televised tears at that unforgettable booking at the semi-final of the World Cup, and his stormy relationships with loved ones and the bottle alike, have captured the hearts of many. But Paul Gascoigne’s latest descent, being sectioned under the Mental Health Act, has left the nation wondering if Gazza’s story will end in tears yet again, or if this sporting hero’s life can take a positive turn and restore him to his former glory - or at least give him a little happiness.

Gascoigne was beset with insecurities that stemmed from his troubled beginnings and as described in his autobiography, Gazza, he revealed that he started contemplating death aged just seven. At 13 he suffered with depression and stole to fund an addiction to gaming machines.

But despite the negatives Gazza went on to become one of the most remarkable talents in British sport. He gave football back to England in 1996 when in a match against Scotland, he flipped the ball over a defender’s head, ran around him and volleyed the ball into the net.

Triumph soon turned to tragedy as Gazza’s history of emotional instability began to shine through revelations about his personal life, including news of his dangerous cocktails of cigarettes, booze and anti-depressants. This much-loved player began to show that he was too frail to bear the weight of the talent he possessed.

The nationwide support that Gascoigne is getting only goes to show how much of a loved player he is and like many of those in the game who know him, City News readers believe he can come through his problems.

But can he really change? Can anybody who has endured years of endless pain - not just physically, but also mentally and emotionally - ever hope for a full recovery?

At the UCKG we believe that you can. Hundreds of people walk through our doors every day carrying with them a weight of problems that vary from sickness to depression and even family breakdowns. As they embark on a carefully selected help program, which includes one-to-one counselling, strong prayers and faith building sessions, they are able to let go of the past, resolve pressing problems and begin building the future of their choice. This may sound a bit far-fetched, but the testimonies in this paper are proof that lives are changing, that given the opportunity God is willing to, quite plainly, make your dreams come true.

Are you going through a ‘rough patch’ that seems to last a lifetime?

If you are going through problems that don’t go away no matter how hard you try, then you could benefit from the strong prayer sessions at the UCKG. Call today for more information and to book an appointment for the one-to-one help sessions on 020 7686 6000 24hrs.

Released on Monday 17th March 2008