All Shook Up - by Debra J White (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

"Debbie's spunk and petulance will drive the reader to laughter despite the tragic circumstances." Dr. Fawzia Mail Tung

January 6, 1994 started as an uneventful day in Debbie's life, but she doesn't remember.

During a late afternoon walk with her two dogs, Debbie's life irrevocably changed when she was hit by a car. The impact threw her into a snow-filled ditch, leaving her unconscious and bleeding from severe brain trauma.

Two months later, Debbie returned home to a world that felt foreign. The lingering effects of her brain injury meant she could never work again. She grappled with permanent memory and mobility issues which reshaped her daily existence.

Despite the long and arduous recovery, Debbie found new purpose in life. She embraced creative writing and devoted herself to volunteer work, such as working in animal shelters and teaching English to refugees. Surviving on disability payments posed its own challenges, but she persevered.

Though her financial situation is strained, Debbie's heart is fuller than ever. The accident, as devastating as it was, forged her into the person she is today. She cherishes the new path her life has taken and wouldn't change a thing. Or would she?

Review Quotes

"A fascinating look at the life of a strong resilient woman whose life was shattered by a car accident. Her spunk and petulance during rehabilitation will drive the reader to laughter despite the tragic circumstances... a must read for those who think they've been dealt a bad hand in life." Dr. Fawzia Mail Tung

"Debra's sense of humor is refreshing. She had the rug pulled out from under her and rose to new heights. She didn't let her handicaps deter her from bettering the lives of others." Nazli Currim, author

"Debbie's story is one of resilience, persistence, healing and a commitment to community service. Her experience drives home how life can change in the blink of an eye and how it can either dig you into a hole or how you can climb your way up... reminds us that there is no better way to heal than by giving to others." Sandy Bahr, Grand Canyon Director of the Sierra Club

"Hairy days in New York City as a social worker to a serious car accident in upstate NY that led to harrowing times in rehabilitation." Barbara Fazio McGrory, CAC, social worker