Devoted - by Dick Hoyt (Paperback)

About the Book

This remarkable book is the inspirational story of what can happen when two determined people create an unbreakable bond and set out to achieve the almost impossible. --"Tucson Citizen""

Book Synopsis

The remarkable story of a father's devotion to his wheelchair-bound son and how their bond inspired millions of people worldwide--"Dick and Rick prove that the seemingly impossible is possible with every step they take on their awe inspiring journey." (Uta Pippig, three-time winner of both the Boston and Berlin Marathons)

Born a Spastic quadriplegic, Rick Hoyt was written off by numerous doctors who advised his parents, Dick and Judy, to put their son in an institution. But Dick and Judy refused.

Fast-forward to seventh grade when Rick, who was attending Westfield Middle School, asked his dad to enter a charity race. But there was a twist: Rick wanted to run, too. Dick had never run a race before, but more challenging still, he would have to push his son's wheelchair at the same time. Dick and Rick were determined, however, to overcome any obstacle in their way.

Now, over one thousand races later, including numerous marathons and triathlons, Dick Hoyt continues to push Rick's wheelchair. Affectionately known worldwide as Team Hoyt, they are as devoted to each other as ever, and continue to inspire millions with their trademark motto--"Yes, you can."

Review Quotes

"Devoted is a story that needs to be told. Dick Hoyt's retelling of his life experiences with his family have provided and will continue to provide motivation for people to strive to succeed at anything they do...Team Hoyt's story is one that has inspired millions and will continue to do so."--Deseret News

"[An] inspiring message."--HistoryWire.com

"A must read...Many people from around here are familiar with the Hoyts, but the book is worth reading to get the details on how they started racing and the many obstacles they had to overcome...An inspirational, quick read."--Metro West Daily News ("The Best Book I Read This Year" roundup)

"A powerful story of devotion and faith...Perfect for general lending libraries."--Midwest Book Review

"Dick and Rick prove that the seemingly impossible is possible with every step they take on their awe inspiring journey. Their unconditional bond of care and support for each other has led to accomplishments beyond the imaginable. They stand alone as a symbol of encouragement to not only the physically challenged, but to us all."--Uta Pippig, Three-time winner of both the Boston and Berlin Marathons and President of Take The Magic Step(R)

"Free of jargon, and written with compassion in simple and direct language...Dick Hoyt's book will likely appeal to parents and will be a good choice for teaching about diversity issues."--Internet Review of Books

"It is incredible what can happen when a parent and child unite in an effort to find a shared passion as Dick and Rick Hoyt have. Through very hard work they have become a powerful part of this sport of running, Their story is truly uplifting!"--Bill Rodgers, Four-time winner of the Boston Marathon and the New York City Marathon

"This remarkable book is the inspirational story of what can happen when two determined people create an unbreakable bond and set out to achieve the almost impossible."--Tucson Citizen

"When I saw Dick Hoyt racing for the first time on TV I thought this man is an animal and I asked myself 'How can this be possible?' There's a famous saying commonly used back home in Slovakia 'love can move the mountains' and that's exactly what Dick did for his son, Rick. I've never met anybody who worked harder than Dick and Rick Hoyt. This book is an unbelievable story; it's goes way beyond just racing, it defines what the true meaning of passion really is."--Zdeno Chara, Boston Bruins

About the Author

Dick Hoyt is a retired lieutenant colonel in the Air National Guard, and his son Rick Hoyt is a graduate of Boston University. They live in Massachusetts.

Don Yaeger has been an author or coauthor on numerous books, including Michael Oher's autobiography I Beat the Odds. He lives in Tallahassee, Florida.