Kirkus Reviews QR Code
GETTING STRONG IN ALL THE HURTING PLACES by Phyllis & David York York

GETTING STRONG IN ALL THE HURTING PLACES

By

Pub Date: Jan. 1st, 1989
Publisher: Rawson/Macmillan

The astoundingly straightforward story of how a woman paralyzed in a fall fought to rebuild her life. Phyllis and David York are the founders of Toughlove, an approach dealing with teen-agers that found great acceptance among thousands of troubled parents. At the height of their success, Phyllis fell and broke her neck and was unable to move from the shoulders down. Written as a double diary by her and her husband, this is a detailed recounting of how Phyllis travelled from despair through hospitals and rehabilitation programs to a moderately high level of wheelchair functioning. Phyllis is a flamboyant, gregarious personality, comfortable with discussing all her emotions and experiences, from depression to joy, from toileting to sex, including her obsession with clothes. David is less outgoing, but equally honest in noting frustration, impatience, and dread of his wife's repeated demands to help her commit suicide. Due credit is given to family, friends, and medical personnel who provided--and still provide--indispensable support. On the negative side, there are some flashes of Toughlove jargon, and much of the re-created dialogue is stiff and unbelievable. On the whole, however: an inspirational story, primarily of a strong and loving relationship that ultimately was strengthened by tragedy.