Cheri Tannenbaum

This book was interesting and I have every admiration for Cheri. I did find the religious aspect difficult although I learned a lot about Jewish customs and religion. Other faiths would not have a problem, particularly Christians but I am an atheist and struggled a bit with the constant references. I didn't know much about dystonia but I am quite experienced both personally and with other people about various physical difficulties and also mental illness. It is hard not to be encouraged to 'keep going' by the narrative. Incidentally, the amazing effect of the drug Lamotrigine was a surprise. I take Lamotrigine as a mood stabiliser for depression although it is only supposed to be for Bipolar Disorder which I don't have. The day after I had my first tablet my daughter commented that it was a miracle drug as I was so much better! I love Cheri's release through her individual art. I am currently doing a course on Medicine and the Arts and as a Mental Health Peer Support Group Facilitator I have seen the power of art to heal, particularly if you can get over worrying about what people think. I would recommend this book particularly to those who have a disability or who have a close family member or friend with one and certainly if you also have a faith.… (meer)

I learned a lot by reading this book. Not only was Cheri Tannenbaum's story inspiring, it opened my eyes to life with a disability. As a special education teacher, I certainly have sympathy for my students, but reading stories like this help me to put myself in their place. I am now more understanding of their day-to-day struggles, not only in school, but every second of every day. Her personality shines throughout the story. I liked her very blunt/straight forward writing style. I appreciated the stories that showed her as a strong, resilient woman as well as the stories that showed her vulnerability and struggles. I even learned a bit about the Jewish culture. Overall, her story is thought provoking, interesting, and her writing is easy to read. On a side note, while I was scrolling through Facebook, I saw a picture of Cheri wearing her fantastic jewelry. There was no mention of her name or disability, just an inspiring quote about being who you are (or something similar). She is someone to look up to!… (meer)

I was interested in reading this book because it concerned a medical condition about which I knew nothing. I also love books where people share their personal stories with their audience, including their successes and failures. In this book the author shares her life story, the importance of her Jewish faith in her life as well as how difficult it was to deal with her medical condition. I found the letters in the Appendix from her children and friends to be some of the most heartfelt and genuine love they have for the author. These are true testaments to who she is. There were also some inspiring quotations to read and think about, as well as an informative section about the disease itself. The author certainly educated me about the disease as well as what it means to be a modern Jewish woman who faces her challenges head-on.… (meer)