Every now and then I’ll meet someone, overhear a few whispered words while waiting in line at the grocery, or read a book that will leave me forever changed. And that is precisely what happened when I read Beyond my Control by Stuart Ross McCallum—I was left forever changed.

 

I’ve never been one to read much non-fiction, and I certainly knew very little about epilepsy, but when I heard the buzz about Stuart’s story, something compelled me to rush out and purchase his book.

 

To say that Stuart’s story—an honest to goodness life altering journey—was far more than I expected is an understatement.  First, I was captivated by Stuart’s enormous wealth of spirit and candor, and, as I read further, I was as thoroughly entertained as I was enlightened. Exceptionally well written with novel-like qualities, Beyond my Control recounts Stuart’s maddeningly complex and oftentimes heartbreaking battle with epilepsy. And this was a war that he not only fought internally, but externally as well.

 

With the turning of each page, I learned, I pondered, and I marveled. And yes, I occasionally wept. For not only is his story a stunningly honest one, but it is ultimately a celebration of incredible courage and triumph. It is also a testament to the strength of family love.

 

Now, whenever something in my life drags me down and I consider the idea of setting the table so I can throw myself a bona fide pity party, I find myself thinking of Stuart McCallum’s strength. I think of his character too. And isn’t that what we, as people, admire most—someone who has true character?

 

 

I can’t recommend this book highly enough. You can visit Stuart and learn more about his amazing journey here.

Beyond my Control is available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and fine independent booksellers across the country.

Stuart, a journalist and a champion for the needy and underprivileged,  lives in Australia with his wife and children.

 

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