I, Rob Graves - by Robert P Graves (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Here, you will delve into the compelling and deeply personal narrative of "I, Rob Graves," a remarkable journey that unveils the critical importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment compliance. In this introspective odyssey, you'll follow the life of Robert P. Graves, a resilient gay man who came of age in Buffalo, New York, during the height of the AIDS Epidemic.

As you navigate the pages of this story, Robert opens his heart and soul, laying bare the intimate details of his life's tapestry. You'll accompany him through the arduous process of self-discovery and acceptance of his homosexuality, while bearing witness to the monumental health challenges he encountered along the way. Robert bares it all-his years of therapy, the battle against a sex addiction, his journey of reconciling his sexuality, and the management of depression and Bipolar Disorder through meticulous medication oversight.

Within these words, you'll discover how Robert learned the profound art of forgiveness and acceptance, ultimately finding success and inner peace in a world that often met him with cruelty. By sharing his story, he passionately champions the cause of destigmatizing mental health and sexuality, dismantling the stereotypes that have been unfairly assigned.

The title, "I, Rob Graves," alludes to Robert's tumultuous past, where he grappled with an anonymous sex addiction as a way to self-medicate during one of the most perilous eras for gay men. Yet, he emerged from those dark days, triumphant and HIV-negative, having defied the odds during the AIDS Epidemic.

Penned by a gay man who weathered the storm of the AIDS Epidemic and wrestled with the complexities of mental health, "I, Rob Graves" stands as a beacon of hope. It encourages readers to forge their own paths when grappling with mental health, sexuality, and addiction, whether within the LGBTQ+ community or the broader society. Robert's story serves as an inspirational testament to resilience, extending a reassuring hand to those enduring trauma and mental health struggles, letting them know they are not alone, not "diseased" or tainted, but deserving of the same love, acceptance, and forgiveness that Robert has found within himself.

Review Quotes

"I, Rob Graves, is a raw and honest story that takes a revealing look into the life of Robert P. Graves. The themes of strength, resilience, and recovery occur again and again as Robert moves the readers through his life journey-a life that was plagued by trauma but also a life that was a case study in how forgiveness and acceptance can heal and create recovery.

-Andrew J. Mattle, LMHC, and Executive Director, CMH Counseling

"As a straight woman who's personal and family history is vastly different than the author's, I thought I'd enjoy the story as an outsider peeking into the windows of someone else's life. But after reading the first chapter I realized the book was tapping into a more universal human experience. I laughed, cried, and related to the stories in ways I could have never anticipated. When I reached the last page, I realized the human experience of forgiveness is universal. And Robert helped me find some I didn't even know I needed."

-Ginine Capozzi, Founder, KnowledgeForce Consulting

"By the nature of being human, the test before us is to examine the life we have lived, what has shaped who we are, what we have learned from our failures and triumphs, and how that awareness helps us to reach the "mountain top". I applaud you Robert Graves for your vulnerability in sharing your story. Your story is a catharsis not only for you, but for all who will read your book. A turning point to find acceptance of their humanness and that which will shape the possibilities of finding self fulfillment and happiness."

Jenny T Bagen, MS, PMHNP-BC JT Bagen Psychiatric Services