Or When I Get Back on My Feet You'll Be Sorry - Don't Leave Me This Way

Julia Garrison' determination and strength are remarkable and inspiring. This story was one I couldn't put down, and one that changed my perspective on dealing with trauma and rehabilitation. Julia's own character and the love of her family and friends changed her long term outcome and her quality of life following her "incident". I admire all of them and salute them!

Having experienced a brain bleed in April, I read Julia Fox Garrison's memoir with great interest. Her mixture of humor, pathos, frustration, and gratitude made this a compelling page turner. Throughout the book, I found Garrison's optimism throughout her many obstacles, as well as her ability to reach out to others, inspirational. Her use of humor to deflect pity is something anyone with challenges can aspire to do. I recommend this book to anyone who has survived a life-changing event like a stroke or a hemorrhage, as well as those who love and care for these survivors.

I REALLY ENJOYED HER HONESTY WITH DEALLING WITH A STROKE/BRAIN INJURY...HER INSITE INTO GOOD DOCTORS AND NOT GOOD DOCTORS AND NURSES AND THERAPISTS IS SO TRUE...I HAVE FOUND THAT WHEN YOU FIND A GOOD DOCTOR,OR NURSE, OR THERAPIST STICK WITH THEM UNTIL YOU CAN'T...I HAVE A BRAIN TUMOR AND I AM/WAS A REGISTERED PHYSICAL THERAPIST IN MASS...I HAVE A GREAT HUSBAND AND 2 GREAT KIDS...14 AND 15 YEARS OLD...AND A GOOD SUPPORT SYSTEM...BUT I FEEL LONELY SOMETIMES...LUCKILY THERE IS A SUPPORT GROUP AT MASS GEN HOSP FOR PEOPLE WITH BRAIN TUMORS/'INJURIES'...I SAY THAT BECAUSE IF YOU HAVE BREAST CANCER YOU GET YOUR TREATMENT AND YOU GO ALONG YOUR 'NOW-CHANGED LIFE', BUT WHEN YOU HAVE A BRAIN TUMOR, EVERYONE HAS IT IN A DIFFERENT PART OF THE BRAIN AND IT'S DIFFERENT GRADES 2-4...SO SOMEONE COULD HAVE VISION PROBLEMS OR FACIAL PARALYSIS OR ANOTHER PERSON COULD HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THEIR MUSCLES ON ONE SIDE OF THEIR BODY...AND IT CAN GO ON AND ON...SOME PEOPLE NEED CANES, AND OTHERS MAY NEED A 'WALKER'...IT'S NOT OPTIONAL, THOUGH...BUT I LOVED HER BOOK!!!

I have second thoughts about reading this bill because having a stroke is my biggest fear. The author writes about her experience with humor and compassion for others experiencing the same thing. Always look for your angels and give thanks for your blessings.

I really was amazed at Julia'attitude throughout the book. She was accepting, yet kept her sense of humor. Wow! How many of us could do that? I was infuriated finding out the cause of her hemorrhage. How unacceptable of the drug companies. Amazing person to read about.

After reading this book, I purchased more so that I could give it as a gift. If anyone feels "down" or "depressed" they ought to read this book and thank their lucky stars every day for good health. This woman never gave up and it is a very moving true story.

This book was a beautifully written view of life after a major stroke in a young, ambitious woman. I related to the author on many levels and appreciated her determination and courage...and ability to laugh at herself.

Julia fox Garrison is inspiring. She has written a book about a very serious experience with amazing wit and humor. I would highly recommend her book for anyone who has gone through a life changing event specifically a stroke or brain trauma. I love her motto "a positive outlook equals a positive outcome". I think it would be extremely helpful to family members to give insight into the journey that a stroke survivor travels.I also think that it should be required reading for all health professionals to help them see things from the patient's point of view. GREAT, INSPIRING BOOK!!!!

With all Julia went through, especially questionable caregivers, she can still laugh and bring others with her! My husband is in the same situation and I can attest to the fact that her experiences are no exaggeration! She doesn't mince words--she tells it like it is with wonderful humor. It takes real talent to make a true story read like good fiction!

I loved this author's first account look at being a "victim" of healthcare. It did help me to have a better insight as to what my patients are going through. It was amusing, also, to read some of the sarcastic comments towards those around her.

Julia tells us about her struggles with stroke recovery and uses humor to explain things that happen along the way. Many of her struggles are similiar to ones my mom has gone through. My mom who has recovered from her first stroke and is now working on recovery of her second stroke, lives with me. I am always trying to learn more about what she is feeling and thinking as we get through each day together. It is hard work for everyone, but stroke recovery is possible. Stroke patients need help from caring,compassionate and patient people with things like assisting them in moving their limbs until they are able to do so on their own. Learning about their struggles and challenges, helps you know what they are going through and how you can be most helpful. For example, doing things for them, instead of allowing them to initiate and do as much as they can for themselves, actually impedes their progress towards recovery. I've read many books on stroke recovery but Julia's is the only one I recommend to families like ours and to any caregivers that help us in her recovery process. I've read parts of Julia's book to my mom and she cracks up and then nods her head in agreement with what Julia is saying. I know she is happy that someone understands what she is going through and has taken the time to tell the story in such an educational and entertaining way. God Bless You Julia! You are truly a strong and amazing woman and your story is inspiring!

Julia, thank you for writing this engaging and inspired book that provides your personal account of stroke survival. In the midst of an entertaining and funny read, you manage to pass on critical life lessons that ground the reader to the essentials in life: family, love, friends, laughter, play, work; while at the same time, imparting key messages to health care providers along the way. This should be a required read for health care pre-professional training as well as for a refresher for those who may think they have all of the answers. Your story portrayed both the most inspired of caregiving practices as well as the lackluster....profound life lessons for us all. Readers: spend a few days with Julia's story....you'll not regret it.

This book is truly empowering. Just so you know after many years in college, your book has been the only book I have actually finished! It was relate-able, FUNNY, sarcastic, optimistic, hopeful and so many other things, It is a book that I will keep close to my heart. Thank you for sharing your story!

I read the first two paragraphs, stopped, and read them again. I then got up from my comfy chair, found my husband and daughter and read the first two paragraphs aloud to them. We were all blown away. The rest of Julia Garrison's story is just as breathtaking. I couldn't put it down. I cried hard twice and laughed out loud too many times to count. When I finished, I just sat for a long while with the book in my hands, looking at the cover, wishing for more. I'm the same age the author was when, without warning, she had a massive stroke, and her life changed forever. So I keep imagining myself in her shoes, wondering if I possess the courage, determination, and positive attitude Julia has, wondering if I would survive...and then thrive. I don't know, but I know this: Her story inhabits me now. And I carry her messages of positive attitude, dignity, and hope with me. This book should be read by everyone who has ever been a patient, everyone who has ever faced overwhelming obstacles, every doctor, and definitely every medical student. Have I left anyone out?

I purchased this book - Don't Leave Me This Way - after seeing the author - Julia Fox Garrison speak at a local school. I couldn't resist - I needed to know more about her and her story. There is a story here that needs to be told and even more importantly - needs to be read. After reading this book you will be look at things in a different way - the 'why me' factor is not the focus here - the focus is - 'my attitude will be the one that makes a difference in my life as well as in other people's lives.' It is a lesson for all ages and that is why this book should be read by all - teens to adults - in any profession. While it can give hope to those who are suffering and experiencing challenges currently - it also touches those who may not be going through a challenge at the time - yet it will help them refocus their everyday attitude and when they may experience some difficulties in the future - they will be more equipped to handle them. Go ahead - read this one - trust me you will want to share the message by the time you finish reading it!

This story is one of optimism and motivation for everyone! And, it's a reminder to the medical profession that they're treating individuals, not papers in a medical record.

Julia is motivated to not succumb to what life has dealt her but to find within herself the will and desire to keep pushing to the limit. The strength of her belief in herself is amazing and quite uplifting. There are times your heart strings are pulled and you want to ask her "why?" but then you realize that she's asking "why not"? What a great reminder to us that we must ask "why not".

As for the medical professionals and teaching hospitals, it's about treating the person and understanding their frame of reference and not just looking at a chart and diagnosing paper. Doctors need to speak WITH your patients and then bring your wealth of knowledge to helping them. It's a collaboration and partnership and by working together, the best results will be achieved.

This book, "Don't Leave Me This Way ..." is a quick read and I recommend you take some time to enjoy it and then take some valuable life lessons with you.

It wasn't long after starting Julia's story before I was caught up in the journey that started so surprisingly during a normal day at work, and left her in a different place no one could have anticipated. You don't need to have personal experience with a health crisis to relate to the real frustration and helplessness she endured. I found myself cheering for her trust in her instincts as she stood up to the bureaucracy of the medical profession. I was crushed for her personal defeats and elated for her victories. In spite of it all, she manages to continue to see the humor that exists in every day life, and leaves you wondering how big a role that played in her recovery. I particularly enjoyed the stories that included her parents who provide some laugh out loud moments of comic relief reminiscent of the Walsh parents in a Marian Keyes novel. Overall a recommended, good read. Julia's humor and positive attitude make this very serious story an engaging ride well worth paying the price for admission.

Julia's phenomenal story and sense of humor leave you wanting more! Entertaining, enlightening and inspirational only begin to describe the book and the individual. Julia had it all, successful career, loving family and active lifestyle. Then at age 37, a stroke leaves her with a loving family, limbs that don't work and a brain with limited abilities. Through sheer determination, she defies the prognosis of the medical "experts".

You will laugh, learn and gain a greater appreciation for what you have. But, this is not your preachy, doom and gloom personal tragedy. It's not a far stretch to categorize the book under humor.

The courageous use of self-deprecating humor in light of our inadequate medical system is laudable. Julia introduces Dr. Jerk and Dr. Neuro. You've probably met them. One is compassionate, intelligent and innovative and the other is ... a jerk. Perhaps it took a stroke to do it, but Julia has found her niche as a writer and public speaker. I can only hope she will share the rest of her story with us very soon.

This book should be required reading for each and every one of us. Julia's story is tragic and courageous, and leaves the reader with a sense of empowerment unlike nothing I have ever read! It makes you want to be a better person. It makes you want to choose to be the best that you can be, strive for more, yet be happy with who you are all at the same time. I have had the gift of seeing Julia speak and I can tell you it changed my entire outlook on life for the better. She is beyond amazing! Her wit and humor almost make you forget the tragic circumstances that led to her journey of inspiring others. Her voice is mirrored in her writing and I would recommend this book to anyone that believes in fate, hope, and creating your own destiny.

I am a pediatric nurse, with my specialty in brain impaired, and handicapped children, and young adults.This book has amazing insight from the patients point of view!!! Fantastic! I am not an avid reader, but could not put this book down. I enjoy reading factual information, not so much fiction, and this book had me laughing and crying all in the same afternoon!!! as a caregiver of non verbal individuals, I have been enlightened, and educated regarding how the patient perceives medical staff.....I honestly believe this book should have been a required reading when in nursing school. I look forward to meeting Julia at an upcoming presentation/ conference....What an amazing woman, with a truly dedicated support system...
So glad I bought this book!!!

I read and thoroughly enjoyed Julia Fox Garrisons book "Don't Leave Me This Way"..she has a marvelous sense of humor and as a stroke survivor myself I found it a fun book to read and very informative about different options we have and do not even know it. Julia is a survivor in every sense of the word (including having 8 brothers) and has an exceptional way of dealing with the medical profession, hospitalization, rehab, recovery and sharing her experience in this fun book which I personally think should be a "required reading" for everyone in the medical profession, not only those dealing with brain injuries and a recommended reading for every brain injured person or their family. . . .

An eerily honest reflection of my own life and frustrations living with brain injury. Well-written, nice use of language, great black humor. I've never read a book written in the 2nd person, strange at first, but it works (especially since her experience *has* happened to me.) Important information for health care providers--could they please figure out some better way to provide care when people are completely bed-bound because of paralysis? The "getting to the bathroom" issue is so difficult--Julia's anger and frustration mirrors my own.
A wonderful reminder of helpful ways to approach a person with disabilities--great specific suggestions, ways to help ease awkward situations when young children ask uncomfortable questions in front of a stranger.

Julia is a wonderful person, an inspiration and a wonderful writer!
Her book captured me from the first page. I laughed with her, cried, and enjoyed every page.
I met Julia and had a signed copy of the book; which I then gave away to a lady who experienced a stroke. I am now buying 4 more books to give away as gifts to others who should buy this book!
-Brandon Wright, MSW, LSW, CBIS

I Found this Book to be an honest,emotional, story of a woman that fought as hard as a human can fight to get her life back after suffering the worst possible stroke a person could have. In this book she opened her soul to all that will read this, and showed us what prayer,anger, and working her body harder than she thought possible to get home to her family, and live a viable life, and at the same time giving her readers,the knowledge that we can accomplish anything we come up against if we give our all. I have shared this book with others, and they have felt the same way I do. Her belief in GOD was so deep even on the days she was angry with him, her faith was there.This is a book anyone will benefit from

, I was recently at the Brian Injury conference in Michigan and purchased your book. I have been a Occupational Therapist for 30 years and would like to say how wonderful the book and speaking engagement were. I always try to imagine if I was in the patients shoes, but your book really put into perspective the patients point of view. Also how we can improve treatment sessions. The book is now going around the department and heading to Physical Therapy next. Thank you so much for the helpful insight. Thank you Kerry Kelly

I really loved this book. I loved Julia's spirit, her spunk, her wit and her unwavering belief in herself and her recovery in spite of the overwhelming odds she faced. I read the book in one day because it was so riveting. Somehow Julia Fox Garrison was able to take a tragedy and transform it into an inspirational, uplifting read.

The lessons I took away are to never give up and always be a participant in your own medical care. If you are unsatisfied, keep at it until you get the answers and the caring treatment you need.

Julia Fox Garrison's is an engaging, enjoyable, and quick read ... certainly all good reasons to pick it up and read it.

Yet, this book is much more than a good story. I view it as a gentle, clear, and inspiring reminder of how important it is to take time to enjoy and be thankful for the many blessings in one's life.

While certainly this book discusses challenges of stemming from medical issues, I feel that Julia's message of how challenges can help us see the world in a new and better light, can be applied universally. I particularly enjoyed reading about how these challenges helped Julia become more sensitive others and helped her grow spiritually.

Don't Leave Me This Way adds a lot of positive energy in helping us deal with problems both individually and collectively.

Working as a rehab professional in occupational therapy I was very interested to read this book, and found that this book was a great insight into the experience of the patient on such an intimate level. It saddened me to hear of the so many negative and demoralizing experiences that Julia suffered unnecessarily! I only wish that Julia will write a sequel to reflect what her journey has been since she wrote this first book. I love that she used humor and sheer positivity to harness her potential. My only criticism is that the intros to some of the chapters were somewhat confusing, but maybe that was the point.

I loved the way this wonderful author wrote about her more than
incredible experiences---as if she is telling herself what has
happened and what continues to happen. It's as if we are inside her
looking out and being told what we are thinking and feeling after a
brain hemorrhage. Julia Garrison is a one-of-a-kind in the most
wonderful way. We all need to absorb what she describes in the way
we treat each other---doctor, patient, parent, spouse, child, friend,
stranger. You cannot forget Julia Garrison.

I have never personally experienced an incident like Julia, but I found her book inspirational. When confronted with a life-threatening health issue, Julia and her family found the courage to move forward and recover against all odds. Her book is written with a humorous tone which shows her positive attitude and her unending goal to get well. Her book taught me that you need to figure out what is important in life, not lose sight of it and never give up. I would highly recommend this to anyone... whether you have experienced a situation like this or not. Definitely one of the best books I have read in a long time!! I couldn't stop turning the pages and finished it within a few days!

I REALLY ENJOYED HER HONESTY WITH DEALLING WITH A STROKE/BRAIN INJURY...HER INSITE INTO GOOD DOCTORS AND NOT GOOD DOCTORS AND NURSES AND THERAPISTS IS SO TRUE...I HAVE FOUND THAT WHEN YOU FIND A GOOD DOCTOR,OR NURSE, OR THERAPIST STICK WITH THEM UNTIL YOU CAN'T...I HAVE A BRAIN TUMOR AND I AM/WAS A REGISTERED PHYSICAL THERAPIST IN MASS...I HAVE A GREAT HUSBAND AND 2 GREAT KIDS...14 AND 15 YEARS OLD...AND A GOOD SUPPORT SYSTEM...BUT I FEEL LONELY SOMETIMES...LUCKILY THERE IS A SUPPORT GROUP AT MASS GEN HOSP FOR PEOPLE WITH BRAIN TUMORS/'INJURIES'...I SAY THAT BECAUSE IF YOU HAVE BREAST CANCER YOU GET YOUR TREATMENT AND YOU GO ALONG YOUR 'NOW-CHANGED LIFE', BUT WHEN YOU HAVE A BRAIN TUMOR, EVERYONE HAS IT IN A DIFFERENT PART OF THE BRAIN AND IT'S DIFFERENT GRADES 2-4...SO SOMEONE COULD HAVE VISION PROBLEMS OR FACIAL PARALYSIS OR ANOTHER PERSON COULD HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THEIR MUSCLES ON ONE SIDE OF THEIR BODY...AND IT CAN GO ON AND ON...SOME PEOPLE NEED CANES, AND OTHERS MAY NEED A 'WALKER'...IT'S NOT OPTIONAL, THOUGH...BUT I LOVED HER BOOK!!!

Julia you are an amazing writer and an amazing strong person! Your book had me laughing and crying at the same time.
I couldnt put the book down when I started to read it and that says alot because I am not a big reader. This book has made me look at life in a different way. In a more positive way, it also is a reminder how precious life really is!! I look forward to reading your next books to come!! I recommend everyone read this book it will have a positive effect on you for sure!! Thank you for all your hard work!! God Bless you Julia!!

Julia, thank you for writing this engaging and inspired book that provides your personal account of stroke survival. In the midst of an entertaining and funny read, you manage to pass on critical life lessons that ground the reader to the essentials in life: family, love, friends, laughter, play, work; while at the same time, imparting key messages to health care providers along the way. This should be a required read for health care pre-professional training as well as for a refresher for those who may think they have all of the answers. Your story portrayed both the most inspired of caregiving practices as well as the lackluster....profound life lessons for us all. Readers: spend a few days with Julia's story....you'll not regret it.

An eerily honest reflection of my own life and frustrations living with brain injury. Well-written, nice use of language, great black humor. I've never read a book written in the 2nd person, strange at first, but it works (especially since her experience *has* happened to me.) Important information for health care providers--could they please figure out some better way to provide care when people are completely bed-bound because of paralysis? The "getting to the bathroom" issue is so difficult--Julia's anger and frustration mirrors my own.
A wonderful reminder of helpful ways to approach a person with disabilities--great specific suggestions, ways to help ease awkward situations when young children ask uncomfortable questions in front of a stranger.

Working as a rehab professional in occupational therapy I was very interested to read this book, and found that this book was a great insight into the experience of the patient on such an intimate level. It saddened me to hear of the so many negative and demoralizing experiences that Julia suffered unnecessarily! I only wish that Julia will write a sequel to reflect what her journey has been since she wrote this first book. I love that she used humor and sheer positivity to harness her potential. My only criticism is that the intros to some of the chapters were somewhat confusing, but maybe that was the point.

I didn't find this book witty, more like sarcastic. Emotively toxic overall.

Possibly useful to medical staff as an illustration of patient experience by highly vulnerable stroke patients, something that's galling to a healthy person, overwhelming to emotionally frail critically ill. But then, I suspect emotional distance from patients is often intentional.

A recommended must read. The book incorporates suspense, heartache, frustration, and stand-up comedian humor that will make you belly laugh. No matter where you are in life you can not come away from this book without learning many life lessons. You will be disappointed when the book ends....continue on and be in the audience when Julia speaks..she is magnificent. You will come away feeling so uplifted. Through all that has been taken from her she has been given a rare gift in what she gives to others.

Julia's phenomenal story and sense of humor leave you wanting more! Entertaining, enlightening and inspirational only begin to describe the book and the individual. Julia had it all, successful career, loving family and active lifestyle. Then at age 37, a stroke leaves her with a loving family, limbs that don't work and a brain with limited abilities. Through sheer determination, she defies the prognosis of the medical "experts".

You will laugh, learn and gain a greater appreciation for what you have. But, this is not your preachy, doom and gloom personal tragedy. It's not a far stretch to categorize the book under humor.

The courageous use of self-deprecating humor in light of our inadequate medical system is laudable. Julia introduces Dr. Jerk and Dr. Neuro. You've probably met them. One is compassionate, intelligent and innovative and the other is ... a jerk. Perhaps it took a stroke to do it, but Julia has found her niche as a writer and public speaker. I can only hope she will share the rest of her story with us very soon.

It wasn't long after starting Julia's story before I was caught up in the journey that started so surprisingly during a normal day at work, and left her in a different place no one could have anticipated. You don't need to have personal experience with a health crisis to relate to the real frustration and helplessness she endured. I found myself cheering for her trust in her instincts as she stood up to the bureaucracy of the medical profession. I was crushed for her personal defeats and elated for her victories. In spite of it all, she manages to continue to see the humor that exists in every day life, and leaves you wondering how big a role that played in her recovery. I particularly enjoyed the stories that included her parents who provide some laugh out loud moments of comic relief reminiscent of the Walsh parents in a Marian Keyes novel. Overall a recommended, good read. Julia's humor and positive attitude make this very serious story an engaging ride well worth paying the price for admission.

Frightening and inspiring, Garrison lives through everyone's worst nightmare and writes about it with honesty and an irreverent sense of humor. I couldn't put it down. It's a wonderful guidebook for patients and doctors.

I loved the way this wonderful author wrote about her more than
incredible experiences---as if she is telling herself what has
happened and what continues to happen. It's as if we are inside her
looking out and being told what we are thinking and feeling after a
brain hemorrhage. Julia Garrison is a one-of-a-kind in the most
wonderful way. We all need to absorb what she describes in the way
we treat each other---doctor, patient, parent, spouse, child, friend,
stranger. You cannot forget Julia Garrison.

I have never personally experienced an incident like Julia, but I found her book inspirational. When confronted with a life-threatening health issue, Julia and her family found the courage to move forward and recover against all odds. Her book is written with a humorous tone which shows her positive attitude and her unending goal to get well. Her book taught me that you need to figure out what is important in life, not lose sight of it and never give up. I would highly recommend this to anyone... whether you have experienced a situation like this or not. Definitely one of the best books I have read in a long time!! I couldn't stop turning the pages and finished it within a few days!

This is such an inspiring story both for its author as an indomitable spirit and for setting a model of behavior for caregivers. The book touched my heart and brought me to both tears and laughter, sometimes at the same time. The passion Julia puts into her journey through recovery takes you along for "the ride of her life."

As a college student going into the medical field, I found this book very helpful! I've always known that health care workers can be rude at times but Julia's situation opened my eyes to how it can affect a patient. I understand the need to detach yourself from the horrible situations you see people in everyday but I now I also see how a simple smile can make a difference. Thanks to Julia, I have made it a goal to put a smile on my patients' faces.