Out of the Blue: One Woman's Story of Stroke, Love, and Survival

by Persimmon Blackbridge

The author, an award-winning filmmaker, talks candidly about her struggles, sacrifices, inspirations, and triumphs as she deals with her disability after a stroke. Originally published as Slow Dance. Reprint.

320 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2000

Reviews

[Koeeoaddi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the most well written and engaging of the stroke patient narratives I've read so far. The Diving Bell and the Butterfly is beautifully written and an amazing accomplishment, but it's almost too metaphorical to be useful to someone who is reading it more for information and hope, rather than for its literary merit.

[MINOR SPOILER:] My only complaint with Out of the Blue is that this lady was partially saved by the deus ex machina of horribly risky surgery that is unavailable to my loved one (and would probably not help in his case). I am still waiting to read a stroke book where the author recovers through time, rehabilitation and will alone. Perhaps someday my brother will write one.

[Marisa Vandyke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down. Wonderful insights into the experience, as well as the differences between healthcare in canada & united states. Illustrates the importance of family and friends as advocates and support network.