Battle for Grace: A Memoir of Pain, Redemption and Impossible Love
"This is an inspirational book in which Cynthia Toussaint provides living proof that with courage and determination, supported by love, anything is possible. I hope you will readBattle for Grace."- Jane Goodall, PhD, DBE, Founder - the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace,janegoodall.org"I enjoyedBattle for Gracebecause it looks deeply, not just at the person experiencing pain, but also the caregiver who shares in the experience. I appreciate the degree to which the love between the two people in this story promotes their healing."- Kevin Dobson, Actor"I identify strongly with Cynthia's experiences since I've endured fifty-six years of living with a disability after a skiing accident left me a quadriplegic. Our competitive spirits have helped us triumph over our severe physical problems. By telling her story, as I did, Cynthia is helping millions of others to never give up on their dreams."- Jill Kinmont Boothe, Alpine ski racer who inspiredThe Other Side of the Mountain"Battle for Graceis a tale of grit, survival, and redemption. With unflinching honesty, Toussaint lays bare her decades-long quest for diagnosis, validation, and respect, and the tenacious journey that transformed her from housebound patient to passionate advocate. For the millions of patients living with pain and illness as well as those who care for them, Toussaint's story will resonate powerfully--it is one of suffering, yes, but ultimately, it is one of unconditional love."- Laurie Edwards, author ofIn the Kingdom of the Sick: A Social History of Chronic Illness in America(Walker, 2013)"Battle for Grace- Cynthia's journey and story - is a true testament to the strength of the human spirit. Cynthia is at once honest, determined, raw and inspiring. You will find yourself rooting for her through the challenges and delighting in the victories."- Beth Darnall, PhD, clinical associate professor, Division of Pain Management, Stanford University"Cynthia's inspiring story moves the most thick-skinned legislators and brings hope and encouragement to everyone challenged by pain and difficulties."- U.S. Congressman Jared Huffman"Battle for Graceshines a light on the plight of women in pain and the perseverance it takes to change the system. This is a story of hope and success. In a word, inspirational."- California Senator Carol Liu"Be forewarned: Reading Cynthia's memoir will break your heart. Yet despite her agony, she has not only survived, but thrived to give hope and courage to other women in pain."- Cheryl England, editor/publisher, Southern California Physician