Toast, Sweat, and Bumpah Stickahs
A disabled man's quest to find the cure alone, the life he has led and continues to lead
by
Book Cover & Preview Text
Let's set the stage shall we? I highly suggest you read my first book Sunshine On My Cane by Scott Front. It's an easy read and sets the stage well. Leave any and all misconceptions, stereotypes, boxes, general garbage, on my doorstep and step inside. Grab a chair, coffee's on and is toaster is plugged in. I am here to bend elbows, not here to judge or analyze. It's you and me and no-one else. A disease raised its ugly head in our midst at approximately 30 years of age. The disease, Spinocerebellar Degeneration or referred to as Friedreich's Ataxia, which is often confused with Multiple Sclerosis, is one you are born with however it did not take hold until mid-life giving the view of life before and during disability.
How are we viewed? How do we view others? How can we correct this situation, can it be eradicated? Physicians give no chance so hope rests in my own hands and I am running with it. I ventured out on my own, did my own thing. The common thread amongst the diagnosis my brother, father, sister, brother, and I received was Ataxia, which is a category of many diseases. However, the one I pinpointed after spending time with all members of my family is Spinocerebellar Degeneration or Friedriech's Ataxia.
There are many forms of Ataxia and this is my self-diagnosis. It's funny because my sister never heard this term mentioned by her doctors, but when she mentioned it the doctors agreed. To be perfectly blunt no doctor I have seen or my Dad or brother has seen has ever mentioned Friedreich's Ataxia. Now if it was some disease that has affected a large number of people perhaps it would be different. The research I conducted indicated a small fraction of people, 150,000 nation-wide are inflicted with this disease. It is still a devastating blow to most and not nearly enough research is being conducted.
Most people who have lived with this disease are smarter than the average bear.
Formats
Book Details
About the Book
A 45 year old man stricken by a rare disease that has taken the very spirit, the drive out of most men however Steve Brown has seen life from 'both sides ." Memories of his past accomplishments and those of his handicapped father , brother, and sister, have lent a hand in the making of a determined spirit sought after by many. Equipped with his guitar, a notebook, and a tank of gas, and all the peace he can muster, Steve invites all who dare to venture a slice of the fortitude he enjoys and will gladly pass on to others. Steve's spirit, soul, and can do attitude is surely infectious and will enable any person to find peace in this topsy turvy world. Highly recommended you have a box of tissues handy.
About the Author
Steve is a 45 year old living in a small Central Maine town who has been diagnosed with Spinocerellar Degeneration at birth. The disease did not turn its ugly head until his 30th birthday, giving the unique personal perspective of viewing life from both sides. With limited help from the world of medicine along with a Neurosurgeon proclaiming Steve's confinement to a wheelchair fifteen years prior, Steve remains upright with aid from a cane. His own personal journey through time as a struggling adult with eyes on eventual healing, reinvention, and daily encounters with attitudes and stereotypes, equipped with the aid of personal fortitude, will surely bring a tear to your eye and bring a new, helpful perspective to your own battles. Ten years in the USAF, a veteran, a weight lifter, 4 children, one grandchild, is but a very small portion of Steve's life. Steve's struggles continue 24/7 but he invites you on his journey towards fulfillment. Grab a chair, coffee's on. A must read for anyone suffering any ailment. This is Steve's second book; the first titled Sunshine On My Cane where the journey begins and continues today...