Summary

"The Damage Done: Twelve Years of Hell in a Bangkok Prison" is a harrowing autobiographical account by Warren Fellows, detailing his descent into the world of drug trafficking and the brutal consequences that followed. The story begins with Fellows' early life, marked by his father's success as a Melbourne Cup-winning jockey and the subsequent family tragedies. Drawn to the thrill of gambling, Fellows becomes involved in petty crime, leading him to Richard, who introduces him to the lucrative yet dangerous world of hashish smuggling. Enticed by the promise of easy money, Fellows embarks on a journey to India, where he meets the enigmatic Avril and becomes further entangled in a web of deceit and moral compromise.

Returning to Sydney, Fellows continues his involvement in drug trafficking, partnering with the cunning William Sinclair, known as 'The Old Man,' and encountering the menacing Neddy Smith. As Fellows' operations expand, he finds himself increasingly entangled with corrupt police and dangerous criminals, blurring the lines between right and wrong. A fateful trip to Bangkok with Paul Hayward sets the stage for disaster, as the duo is apprehended at Don Muang airport with a significant quantity of heroin. The subsequent arrest marks the beginning of Fellows' nightmarish ordeal within the Thai prison system, a world of unimaginable brutality and despair.

The narrative plunges into the depths of Thai prisons, where Fellows endures horrific conditions, including torture, starvation, and disease. He vividly describes the sadistic guards, the overcrowded cells, and the constant threat of violence. Amidst the squalor and degradation, Fellows grapples with his conscience, addiction, and the will to survive. He forms bonds with fellow inmates, finding solace in camaraderie amidst the brutality. The prison system strips away Fellows' humanity, forcing him to confront his darkest impulses and question his values. As the years pass, Fellows witnesses unspeakable acts of cruelty and depravity, testing the limits of his physical and mental endurance.

Throughout his imprisonment, Fellows clings to hope, fueled by letters from his family and the occasional act of kindness. He navigates the complex social hierarchy of the prison, learning to adapt and survive in a world governed by violence and corruption. As his release date approaches, Fellows reflects on the choices that led him to this point, grappling with guilt and remorse. The narrative culminates in Fellows' eventual release, a moment of bittersweet triumph tainted by the lasting scars of his experiences. Returning to Australia, Fellows struggles to reintegrate into society, haunted by the memories of his time in prison. He grapples with addiction, trauma, and the challenge of rebuilding his life after years of hell in a Bangkok prison, ultimately seeking redemption and finding purpose in sharing his story as a cautionary tale.