This book has been a project of mine for a number of years. I first thought about writing about my recovery in 1996. At that time I was angry about how I had been treated like a second-class citizen by a large proportion of the population, just because I talked a bit slowly and had a gait in my walk. However, my experience in the years since has taught me that if people have no contact with brain-injured people then they will treat them as if they are different. People do discriminate and that is a sad fact of life. My reasons for writing this book are threefold. I want to show people that brain-injured people can still think and play a significant role in society. Secondly I want to inspire others who have been through, or who are going through, similar experiences. You should not admit defeat, because if you don’t give up – you don’t lose. Finally, this book has been part of the healing process which I must go through.
In essence I have written my book to reach out to people who are experiencing a similar journey through life. Whether you have a brain stem injury or a brain injury or another illness that you are suffering with, I believe we all face similar challenges. I hope by reading my book you will find the strength and the tools to help you take control of your life. My book is not just for people suffering from a brain injury or illness, I like to think my book can also help families and people impacted by a loved one who is suffering by giving them hope in knowing there is hope! One of the people who was instrumental in my recovery and constantly reminding me of hope is my father Terry, who is beside me here in this picture.