Beyond my Control: One Man's Struggle with Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond

Beyond my Control is one the most powerful heart wrenching stories I have been fortunate enough to read. Stuart shares his inner most thoughts with his readers. I truly felt honoured to be on his journey with him. 



He writes about childhood briefly, his struggle with anorexia nervosa, and starting and maintaining his stained glass business whilst experiencing 'peculiar sensations'.

My heart ached for him to find a diagnosis, for him to find peace, and a sign he was not losing his sanity.


McCallum's easy-going nature and humour are self-evident in the book, even through his frustration and depression, he writes with warmth and the ability to laugh at himself.


McCallum documents his journey into depression, although expected, clearly and emotionally with a candid honesty that is refreshing.


Stuart freely allows his feelings to show from his impatience and frustration at being unable to find a true diagnosis, through his scared and shameful reaction to his own behaviour, to his love for his beautiful wife and children.


McCallum writes in an almost apologetic tone for the majority of the book. He is ashamed and remorseful of his behaviour, although it was beyond his control.


My overwhelming reaction to the book is one of admiration for McCallum and his family, for being able to live this life and still be strong and loving. Stuart and Lisa, his wife, are both people with incredible strength and dignity.


I would definitely recommended this book to anyone who enjoys true life stories, memoirs, or who wants to learn more about what it is like to live with this disease.


It is a truly remarkable book, written by a remarkable gentleman, whom I wish good health and success. 
  

4 comments:

  1. Hello Nikki,

    It is an absolute honour to be featured on your wonderful blog. As people, our lives can be uprooted in an instant when something totally unexpected enters.

    Our ability to challenge and become stronger than (it) is what will make us victorious in the battle. I am not saying it is easy, there is a tremendous amount of factors involved, which determine his/hers success.

    Thank you, Stuart :)

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    1. Hi Stuart,
      I am delighted to feature you here.
      You and your book are truly inspirational.

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  2. What a beautiful blog, Nikki. BEYOND MY CONTROL is one of my favorite books and I have great appreciation and respect for Stuart's honesty and courage in telling his story in the hopes that it would help others. And I know it has helped and inspired many people, not just those with epilepsy, but people with all kinds of hurdles in their lives, medical or otherwise.

    All best wishes,
    Lisette

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    1. Many thanks for your comment Lisette.
      I agree wholeheartedly about Stuart and his book, and am pleased he is getting the recognition he deserves.
      Nikki x

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