Pure Grit

"Pure Grit will encourage our son to own his disability and be all that he is meant to be. A book that also encourages us, as parents, to be bold and brave in how we raise our children. I loved it and can see an immediate difference in how I see and respond to life’s challenges."

"The stories in Pure Grit are a testament to human achievement no matter your ability. Sports have always been a reflection of our world, and it speaks volumes that so many of these incredible stories are from Paralympians and athletes around the world. An extraordinary read."

"Wonderful accounts of individual journeys, sharing unique challenges of physical disability, fuelled by remarkable determination. The horizon of unlimited possibilities for achievement is communicated modestly. One can only be motivated by the unlocking of potential that is highlighted. A compelling read with universal appeal."

"Pure Grit highlights the lived experience of remarkable individuals, who collectively demonstrate that growing up with a disability brings strength, perspective, and resilience. Importantly, it tells these stories through the lens of the empowerment model rather than the deficit model, demonstrating that disability is a natural, and beautiful, element of diversity and the human experience."

"This remarkable book changes my understanding of the world around me. The personal stories are told with an honesty that gets to the nub of our shared humanity."

"The authors have a unique ability to meet the storytellers where they are at. Every story is told with an authenticity that gives the reader an  opportunity to change the many assumptions they might hold about disability without pushing or instructing them to do so. Each of the  nineteen stories is superb in its own right, and as a collection this book is a joy to read."

"Pure Grit is a compelling book that takes the reader into the hearts and  minds of some extraordinary individuals. The biographies are deeply immersive, often very personal and engaging, yet move the reader to reflect on how lives — who we are and where we are — are so profoundly  contingent on our relationship with each other and the culture we inhabit."

"Inspiring! And beautifully told. Every chapter filled with a heart-warming, life-affirming story."

"Many clinicians have recognized the value of learning from the experience of disabled youth and adults. Pure Grit provides that information. Interviewees recognize that parental, family and community attitudes and the physical environment generate barriers or opportunities to fulfilment in careers and personal life. I highly recommend Pure Grit to audiences who are rooting for diversity in all its richness as well as those focused on health and disability studies."

"Pure Grit is a necessary read for anyone looking to further disability representation in various storytelling mediums. Not only does it provide helpful insight on how to do so, but more importantly it centers disability within a conversation about the universal truths of how to live a purposeful and fulfilling life. Ultimately, if there is one takeaway from this book, it is: follow your passion."

"This book thoughtfully captures the breadth and diversity of disability in a way that reminds us that disability is an important part of the human experience. Loved the book."

“As relevant to doctors and health professionals as it is to people with cerebral palsy and their families.”