This book chronicles the author's journey of being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and his struggle to not only regain his physical health, but also to regain the inner strength needed to fight this chronic illness. It is a story of hope, love, healing and finding man’s best friend.
At the age of twenty-eight years old with a promising career in real estate development, Matt Cavallo got out of bed on May 18th, 2005 and stumbled. Overnight, he went from fully-functioning, healthy man to someone who was numb from the waist down and unable to walk. After consulting his doctor, he was sent to a neurologist who immediately admitted him to the hospital. What would happen to Matt over the next four weeks would redefine all that was important in life. At the end of this four week period, he would learn that he has the chronic neurodegenerative condition – Multiple Sclerosis.
This book chronicles Matt’s journey of being diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and his struggle to not only regain his physical health, but also to regain the inner strength needed to fight this chronic illness. It is a story of hope, love, healing and finding man’s best friend. Matt is sharing his story in hopes of raising awareness of this devastating illness. A portion of the proceeds from this book will be donated to support MS research and charities.
Professional Reviews
Worth the Read
The writing and story were both really tight and consise, making for a good book. It was easy to read without being overly simplistic. There was a balance between the story and flashbacks, giving insight to the author's life and character without losing the thread of the timeline. Cavallo wasn't afraid to talk about sensitive health issues, adding depth to the book because he put himself in a vulnerable position by being so straightforward. He also didn't get too bogged down with medical jargon or peripheral people, but kept the book focused on himself and his story. It was definitely worth the read. This book would probably be great for others who have MS so they can experience someone else's struggle with adjusting to the situation and news. It would also be informative for the friends and family of people with MS to get some insight on what the condition is like
Good Read
Having listen to Matt's story for the last 2 1/2 + years, while walking our dogs, it was refreshing to have it all at once. Granted, while reading this story, I could hear Matt's voice in my head, it was really hard to put down once I started. By reading the book, I got details about the journey that cleared a few thing up, like how Joci fueled his recovery not only by staying strong, but also backing him in the decisions he was making along the way, dare I say, "The ultimate wife". I drew insperation from the way Matt kept his mouth closed, when alot of people would have lashed out, or how even in the darkest hour, Matt somehow found the positive in dismal circumstances. Kudos to Matt's father-in-law, because the typical f-i-l would have more than likely offered support via email or by sending a card or maybe even a phone call. Joci's dad not only sacrificed his time and the comfort of his own home in order to help them, but in the truck ride when he had a conversation with Matt, and in my opinion, smashed any kind of negative attitude Matt was trying to invent,(one of my favorite parts of the book). As far as walking his dog is concerned, I can tell you, Ted gets alot of time walking. Matt had surgery on his neck in 2010, and while in unspeakable pain, called on me, not to walk Ted, but to drive he and Ted to the dog park, so Ted could get his exercise. Bottom line, Matt is my friend, so I am probably a little bias about the book, but I can say honestly that this book is a good read and delivers the message that giving up is just not an option.
What a journey
My book arrived and as soon as I started reading it I couldn't put it down. This is just not a story about a 28 yr old with MS. This is a story about life and how all your dreams, hopes and plans and everything you ever imagined for your life can change in a second. Some things are completely out of our control. Matt made the choice to write this book and share the most intimate details of his life with the world. Matt and Jocelyn are such an inspiration with their strength and positive attitude they have shown us that life is what you make of it. Thank you for sharing your beautiful story
TRUE STORY. Bella survived an abusive powerbroker father with organized crime ties, a drug-addicted mother and a physically/sexually abusive brother. Shocking & inspirational. When she couldn't cry, she tattooed a crying angel to cry for her.
TRUE STORY. Bella survived an abusive powerbroker father with organized crime ties, a drug-addicted mother and a physically/sexually abusive brother. Shocking & inspirational. When she couldn't cry, she tattooed a crying angel to cry for her.
