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Ten Years Later: Six People Who Faced Adversity and Transformed Their Lives
New York Times bestselling author and beloved Today show co-anchor tells the incredible stories of people who, when faced with impossibly challenging or tragic life situations, persevere—and even thrive—and asks, What if you, facing a game-changing event or decision right now, could see ten years into the future?
Through years of perseverance, purpose, and passion, Hoda Kotb landed a spot with Kathie Lee on the Today show, won numerous journalism awards, and gained valuable life lessons. Now, after captivating readers in her blockbuster memoir Hoda , she turns to stories about others who have undergone personal transformation against great odds.
In Ten Years Later , Hoda chronicles six amazing stories by identifying a game-changing event in her subjects’ lives and then revisiting those lives a decade later. We meet Amy Barnes, who took the leap to escape an abusive relationship, lost an astounding 340 pounds, and now encourages women like her to cultivate their mental and physical strength. There’s also Ron Clifford, a civilian hero of 9/11, who saved the life of a burn victim in the wreckage of the towers—only to learn the same day that his beloved sister and niece were passengers on Flight 175. Patrick Weiland, a former network producer who won a Peabody at age twenty-two and later spiraled into drug addition, demonstrates the power of a second chance.
Ten Years Later is a firsthand testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. Through inspirational life stories, Hoda shows how adversity can unleash our best resilience, perseverance, gratitude, empathy, and creativity. This book will inspire you to believe in the future, no matter how dark the present, and tap into the ability to reach your highest potential.
Through years of perseverance, purpose, and passion, Hoda Kotb landed a spot with Kathie Lee on the Today show, won numerous journalism awards, and gained valuable life lessons. Now, after captivating readers in her blockbuster memoir Hoda , she turns to stories about others who have undergone personal transformation against great odds.
In Ten Years Later , Hoda chronicles six amazing stories by identifying a game-changing event in her subjects’ lives and then revisiting those lives a decade later. We meet Amy Barnes, who took the leap to escape an abusive relationship, lost an astounding 340 pounds, and now encourages women like her to cultivate their mental and physical strength. There’s also Ron Clifford, a civilian hero of 9/11, who saved the life of a burn victim in the wreckage of the towers—only to learn the same day that his beloved sister and niece were passengers on Flight 175. Patrick Weiland, a former network producer who won a Peabody at age twenty-two and later spiraled into drug addition, demonstrates the power of a second chance.
Ten Years Later is a firsthand testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. Through inspirational life stories, Hoda shows how adversity can unleash our best resilience, perseverance, gratitude, empathy, and creativity. This book will inspire you to believe in the future, no matter how dark the present, and tap into the ability to reach your highest potential.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published January 15, 2013
80 people are currently reading
1745 people want to read
About the author
Hoda Kotb
14 books296 followersHoda Kotb is an American television news anchor. Both of Kotb's parents are from Egypt. Along with her parents, she has also lived in Nigeria.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
March 15, 2013
I bought this book after seeing it previewed by Hoda on the today show, but more importantly because I'm in my first year of a 25 yr marriage breakup. Without getting into all the details, if that weren't enough this breakup occurred at a point in my life where I took a 15% pay reduction in my job, which caused financial strains on household, and while I had been dealing with chronic back and neck pain. Now, at 56 and still raising a 14 yr old daughter, my whole life had been turned upside down, and I was looking for any help whatsoever to help deal with the emotional, and physical pain I'm currently experiencing.
So what did i get out of this book? Well, it's a quick read with some truly inspirational stories. It's a book I would recommend to friends, but I also found myself asking, do I have the same qualities as the 6 people chosen for this book? This is my opinion, and I could be totally wrong but to me these individuals all seemed to have a drive, and a purpose in their personal and professional lives that most people don't have. I would consider myself more towards the norm, so all I can do is use myself and my situation as a guide to see where I'll be in ten years. And believe me, the way I feel now with the pain, suffering, confusion, depression, and the challenges of rebuilding the last part of my life under all these pressures will be a challenge that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Only time will tell my story...
So what did i get out of this book? Well, it's a quick read with some truly inspirational stories. It's a book I would recommend to friends, but I also found myself asking, do I have the same qualities as the 6 people chosen for this book? This is my opinion, and I could be totally wrong but to me these individuals all seemed to have a drive, and a purpose in their personal and professional lives that most people don't have. I would consider myself more towards the norm, so all I can do is use myself and my situation as a guide to see where I'll be in ten years. And believe me, the way I feel now with the pain, suffering, confusion, depression, and the challenges of rebuilding the last part of my life under all these pressures will be a challenge that I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Only time will tell my story...
March 19, 2015
So glad I listened to this book rather than reading it. I think reading it would have driven me crazy.
This book detailed the stories of 6 people who faced adversity and how they persevered and eventually triumphed. Some of the stories were more compelling than others but it was interesting listening to all of the stories. People are just interesting - bottom line.
Did I derive any deep meaning from these personal stories? Not really. Did I gain any additional insight into the psyche of man or the nature of despair? Nah. But I did spend some fairly enjoyable hours on the road listening to stories of people who made heroic effort to overcome their tragic circumstances. I wouldn't say it was exactly inspiring (although it was meant to be) but it did make me think a little... just a little.
This book detailed the stories of 6 people who faced adversity and how they persevered and eventually triumphed. Some of the stories were more compelling than others but it was interesting listening to all of the stories. People are just interesting - bottom line.
Did I derive any deep meaning from these personal stories? Not really. Did I gain any additional insight into the psyche of man or the nature of despair? Nah. But I did spend some fairly enjoyable hours on the road listening to stories of people who made heroic effort to overcome their tragic circumstances. I wouldn't say it was exactly inspiring (although it was meant to be) but it did make me think a little... just a little.
February 19, 2013
I love Hoda, but this book didn't really live up to what I expected. The people featured in the stories did face a number of challenges, but often it was made to seem like it was no big deal. As someone who has gone through some tough times lately, I kind of hoped maybe some of the things that I read in this book might encourage or inspire me, but they really didn't. The only one who felt "real" and relatable was the 9/11 survivor, because his story seemed to tell more about the emotions behind his story instead of just focusing on the timeline of events.
February 19, 2013
This new non-fiction book contains six short stories about the lives of people who faced extreme adversity in their life. Hoda, with help from another writer, Jane Lorenzini, recounts each person’s struggle and then writes about the way they reflect on that struggle and stay positive ten years later.
Here is a snapshot of each struggling theme along with a summary of the person’s story:
Weight loss and domestic violence: In her twenties, Amy Barnes worked an administrative job at a county office. She was romanced by an older, attractive man who eventually became her husband. She became comfortable with her life and her food choices, all the while not noticing the weight she gained along the way. Soon, Amy’s love (they named him Robert for this book) started to act controlling. He would screen her phone calls and question her whereabouts. We’ve got a stalker here! It was the aspect of control that made Robert physically abuse Amy to the point that she would escape multiple times in the middle of the night with her two young sons. Amy’s parents pleaded for her to leave Robert, yet Amy always found a way back to him. She was helpless and encumbered by her weight.
Cancer: Lindsay Beck was a twenty-something who was healthy and beginning a career in sales. It wasn’t until she was diagnosed with cancer on her tongue that she realized cancer can affect your life even years after a person is cured. Radiation can cause infertility, and doctors were not informing patients of this risk. After Lindsay educated herself, she made it a mission to educate others.
Drug Addiction: Patrick Weiland became a renowned TV producer in his twenties. He won the Peabody award at 22 years old when he didn’t even know what the award signified! Patrick was a gay man in a relationship. During a big career move, he was diagnosed with HIV. The anxiety from the illness led him to seek solace in crystal meth. He spiraled into a deep drug addiction that led him to slowly leave his producer job at NBC. Throughout this time, his sister was in an abusive relationship. When Patrick took a hiatus to spend time with family and become sober, he lost his sister to domestic violence. Patrick then became powerless until he had one brief moment of clarity to get out of the hole.
Brain Surgery: Diane Van Deren was a recognized athlete in Colorado. She found the love of her life and they started a perfect life together in the eighties. It wasn’t until they had children than Diane began to experience extreme seizures that neither Diane nor medics could control. It literally turned her family’s life upside down. It wasn’t until the constant contact Diane had with medics that she learned if a portion of her brian where the seizures started was removed, she may longer experience the exacerbating fits of paralysis and extreme shock from these seizures. Her family was horrified that Diane would fall into a seizure fit at any moment. The procedure and Diane’s newfound love of running literally saves her life.
9/11: Ron Clifford was an Irish man who was very close to his family. Ron found himself waiting for a meeting in the World Trade Center on a Tuesday morning like any other when unexpectedly a burning woman appeared and Ron rushed to her aide and saving grace. That horrific day Ron witnessed the deaths of thousands of innocent lives. Couples jumping from the building, holding hands, was ingrained in his memory. It wasn’t until he learned that dear family members were on one of the flights that crashed into the twin towers that Ron’s life was turned upside down.
Poverty and Family Estrangement: Roxanne Quimby fell in love in her first semester of college. She moved away from her family and across the country to live with a senior classman. They were an artistic duo; Roxanne rebelled against her family’s request for a business education and a stable lifestyle. Roxanne and George married without her father’s blessing and purchased property in Northern Maine. They lived off the land and needed very little. The couple began to raise a family and Roxanne gave birth to twins. It wasn’t until a few years that Roxanne felt penned up and needed release. She left her husband and searched for a way to support her children. Somehow Roxanne scraped enough together to allow survival for herself and her babies. A rather gruff man who Roxanne encounters while hitch hiking turns out to create a career for her and bring Roxanne and her father back together many years later.
I don’t want to give away everything about each person’s life story. I can say that the struggle defines each person’s life outlook today. At the time of the despair, they denied the struggle from defining their life and used it to rise up and overcome grief, depression, fear or anxiety. I noticed a common theme that Hoda uses to dictate how each denied the challenge from overcoming them. There was a distinct quality of life that each person demanded and desired that pushed him or her to keep moving forward.
For example, Lindsay was my age when her cancer reappeared a second time. She was very close to undergoing a procedure where she wouldn’t be able to talk ever again. Lindsay made the doctors figure out another way, because she wasn’t about to lose this ability in her twenties. Diane had a portion of her brain matter removed so she could care for her family and her family could live without fear of recurring seizures. Roxanne needed to move on from a simple life off the land and care for two babies. Each person rose above and beyond their dark place so they could live a quality life and provide the same for those close to them.
Here is a snapshot of each struggling theme along with a summary of the person’s story:
Weight loss and domestic violence: In her twenties, Amy Barnes worked an administrative job at a county office. She was romanced by an older, attractive man who eventually became her husband. She became comfortable with her life and her food choices, all the while not noticing the weight she gained along the way. Soon, Amy’s love (they named him Robert for this book) started to act controlling. He would screen her phone calls and question her whereabouts. We’ve got a stalker here! It was the aspect of control that made Robert physically abuse Amy to the point that she would escape multiple times in the middle of the night with her two young sons. Amy’s parents pleaded for her to leave Robert, yet Amy always found a way back to him. She was helpless and encumbered by her weight.
Cancer: Lindsay Beck was a twenty-something who was healthy and beginning a career in sales. It wasn’t until she was diagnosed with cancer on her tongue that she realized cancer can affect your life even years after a person is cured. Radiation can cause infertility, and doctors were not informing patients of this risk. After Lindsay educated herself, she made it a mission to educate others.
Drug Addiction: Patrick Weiland became a renowned TV producer in his twenties. He won the Peabody award at 22 years old when he didn’t even know what the award signified! Patrick was a gay man in a relationship. During a big career move, he was diagnosed with HIV. The anxiety from the illness led him to seek solace in crystal meth. He spiraled into a deep drug addiction that led him to slowly leave his producer job at NBC. Throughout this time, his sister was in an abusive relationship. When Patrick took a hiatus to spend time with family and become sober, he lost his sister to domestic violence. Patrick then became powerless until he had one brief moment of clarity to get out of the hole.
Brain Surgery: Diane Van Deren was a recognized athlete in Colorado. She found the love of her life and they started a perfect life together in the eighties. It wasn’t until they had children than Diane began to experience extreme seizures that neither Diane nor medics could control. It literally turned her family’s life upside down. It wasn’t until the constant contact Diane had with medics that she learned if a portion of her brian where the seizures started was removed, she may longer experience the exacerbating fits of paralysis and extreme shock from these seizures. Her family was horrified that Diane would fall into a seizure fit at any moment. The procedure and Diane’s newfound love of running literally saves her life.
9/11: Ron Clifford was an Irish man who was very close to his family. Ron found himself waiting for a meeting in the World Trade Center on a Tuesday morning like any other when unexpectedly a burning woman appeared and Ron rushed to her aide and saving grace. That horrific day Ron witnessed the deaths of thousands of innocent lives. Couples jumping from the building, holding hands, was ingrained in his memory. It wasn’t until he learned that dear family members were on one of the flights that crashed into the twin towers that Ron’s life was turned upside down.
Poverty and Family Estrangement: Roxanne Quimby fell in love in her first semester of college. She moved away from her family and across the country to live with a senior classman. They were an artistic duo; Roxanne rebelled against her family’s request for a business education and a stable lifestyle. Roxanne and George married without her father’s blessing and purchased property in Northern Maine. They lived off the land and needed very little. The couple began to raise a family and Roxanne gave birth to twins. It wasn’t until a few years that Roxanne felt penned up and needed release. She left her husband and searched for a way to support her children. Somehow Roxanne scraped enough together to allow survival for herself and her babies. A rather gruff man who Roxanne encounters while hitch hiking turns out to create a career for her and bring Roxanne and her father back together many years later.
I don’t want to give away everything about each person’s life story. I can say that the struggle defines each person’s life outlook today. At the time of the despair, they denied the struggle from defining their life and used it to rise up and overcome grief, depression, fear or anxiety. I noticed a common theme that Hoda uses to dictate how each denied the challenge from overcoming them. There was a distinct quality of life that each person demanded and desired that pushed him or her to keep moving forward.
For example, Lindsay was my age when her cancer reappeared a second time. She was very close to undergoing a procedure where she wouldn’t be able to talk ever again. Lindsay made the doctors figure out another way, because she wasn’t about to lose this ability in her twenties. Diane had a portion of her brain matter removed so she could care for her family and her family could live without fear of recurring seizures. Roxanne needed to move on from a simple life off the land and care for two babies. Each person rose above and beyond their dark place so they could live a quality life and provide the same for those close to them.
February 10, 2013
I had never heard of the author Hoda Kotb here in NZ, but thanks to the magic of Goodreads and the one thousand plus books on my to be read list, I was able to discover this little book.
Six people with a variety of life experiences, talk about their experiences and how ten years later, the changes that the years have bought. A mother in an abusive relationship, a young cancer sufferer, a news producer caught in a drug spiral, a young mother dealing with epilepsy, a man caught up in 9/11 who faces unbearable losses and a mother looking to support her two young children. All of their stories are inspiring, and prove that none of us know what is around the corner, what lessons we have to learn.
I enjoyed this light read, and maybe needed it more this weekend than any other. One of my work colleagues killed himself this week, unexpected and terribly sad. A person that I would never had known felt that way, and my heart breaks when I think of all the hundreds of people he worked with who would have been happy to help out.
Six people with a variety of life experiences, talk about their experiences and how ten years later, the changes that the years have bought. A mother in an abusive relationship, a young cancer sufferer, a news producer caught in a drug spiral, a young mother dealing with epilepsy, a man caught up in 9/11 who faces unbearable losses and a mother looking to support her two young children. All of their stories are inspiring, and prove that none of us know what is around the corner, what lessons we have to learn.
I enjoyed this light read, and maybe needed it more this weekend than any other. One of my work colleagues killed himself this week, unexpected and terribly sad. A person that I would never had known felt that way, and my heart breaks when I think of all the hundreds of people he worked with who would have been happy to help out.
March 2, 2013
This was a quick read. There were attributes in each of the 6 people that are to be admired and applauded. Each one of us will face adversity. We can choose to let it defeat us. We can also consciously allow good things to happen because of what we have had to ensure. I know several people who have faced adversity and transformed their lives. None of them are monetarily wealthy, have made the news, started corporations or non-profits. This book was a little "over the top" in the people who were selected.
March 1, 2013
Very disappointing. Didn't find majority of these stories especially inspiring or interesting, and some of these people I downright disliked. Yo, lady with the seizures who insisted on driving so she could live "a normal life" didja ever think you were putting everyone else who shared the road with you in danger?
February 12, 2013
This book has Hoda on the cover, but is very much other people's stories brought together. It was an "ok" read but not at all what I expected. The stories also seemed to lose steam as it progressed. The first 3 stories were a lot more engaging than the second 3.
February 13, 2013
Well written and interesting. Amazing what the human body, heart and soul can overcome when the will and the drive is there.
July 1, 2024
en Years Later: Six People Who Faced Adversity and Transformed Their Lives. So far I’m really touched and impressed by their stories. Which is why today I’m going to share them with you.
Amy Barnes: Amy escaped an abusive relationship and lost over 300 pounds. Neither is easy to do, especially not at the same time. Amy’s husband started off sweet, charismatic and romantic. He encouraged her to eat and slowly Amy packed the pounds on, food being her comfort, her addiction. He began to control her, demanding to know who she was talking to on the phone, checking the messages to see if any other guys or even her mother had called her. The control issue is a big red flag in domestic violence. When I was with one of my exes, that was the wake up call for me. It wasn’t the fact that he violated me while I was knocked out by my pills. It wasn’t the fact that he wanted me to move in with him even though neither of us had college degrees or jobs (not to mention I said I wasn’t ready). It was when he texted me “I don’t want you going to any more bars or parties without me” That was when alarm bells started ringing.
Thank God, it did not escalate to Amy’s situation who was brutally beaten and attacked in every way possible. I’m surprised she didn’t die. I think it must have been a mix of resilience and a miracle that saved her when her husband stabbed her in the stomach. She could have gone straight to the hospital. Instead, she risked her health going to the courthouse trying to get her kids back after Robert had beaten them for the first (and only) time. Amy’s whole world was her children so instead of feeling sorry for herself she got a job and worked at getting them back. Then she embraced a fitness routine, joined a gym and began to shed the pounds. It’s something I have really have had a hard time with. I know my medication gives me a voracious appetite and that my health makes it hard for me to do much physical activity. I turned to food way too much. Its my crutch and I need (from now on) to walk with both legs.
Lindsay Beck: Lindsay Beck was your average young adult until she discovered a canker sore on her tongue. Well, it wasn’t a canker sore. It was cancer. And it didn’t look good. She needed chemo and surgery. There were concerns about it of course. Would she be able to taste again after treatment? Would she even be able to talk (turns out she could!). But one of Lindsay's biggest worries was her fertility. Chemotherapy usually renders its patients sterile. When Lindsay found this out, she had her eggs frozen through diligent (and quick) research of her own. Still, she was uneasy that so many cancer patients were unaware that their treatment (designed to save their lives) could also lead to sterilization. So Lindsay decided to do something about it. She started a nonprofit called Fertile Hope that spread awareness about the risk of infertility at the hands of cancer treatment. She went from a small organization to sharing her mission statement with hospitals and cancer clinics across the country, educating patients and doctors alike. She found someone who saw past her as the “cancer girl”. They were married and began to try for children. They were successful despite (somewhat ironically) some fertility problems with her husband. They now have three children and she lives cancer-free.
Patrick Weiland: Originally started as a very successful journalist who was hired by Dateline NBC. Patrick was openly gay and not long after he arrived in California he was diagnosed with HIV. He broke up with his longterm partner and almost immediately began using crystal meth. So began the love affair. He became a functioning drug addict, using on Fridays and throught the weekend. He visited his family back East but never used while he was there. His parents still lived there as did his little sister Sue who struggled with alcohol abuse. Patrick tried multiple times getting clean, going to rehabs and outpatient programs but he just got worse. Soon he was injecting it, instead of just smoking it. And then everything changed. His little sister was murdered by her (also) alcoholic boyfriend. She had tried to leave him and he stabbed her nineteen times in the stomach, then claimed it was self-defense. Patrick and his whole family was determined to get justice and the boyfriend was convicted of second degree murder. Patrick (who had stopped taking his HIV meds until now out of sheer despair) had a 50-50 chance of getting better. He got clean and slowly began to feel better. Now you might catch him on the show Bizarre Foods With Andrew Zimmerman. He’ll do crystal meth but he won’t eat a taruntula.
Diane Van Deren: Diane grew up suffering from epelispy, a serious medical condition that causes her suffer from seizures. Finally, doctors removed a part of her brain that was causing the seizures. This left Diane free to pursue her passion. And her passion was running. But not just a marathon here or there. Diane became an ultrarunner, pushing herself to run over 100 miles at a time. She even ran places like The Artic, at one point falling through the ice, something that put her at serious risk for hypothermia and frostbite, which she thankfully avoided. No matter what the obstacle or injury, she would always press on, all the while maintaining a loving marriage and raising children. Diane still faced challenges from her illness such as having trouble with directions and forgetting simple things, like what to pack for a run (this caused her to rely on multiple alarms and Post-It notes). Diane gave back, talking to children who also had epilepsy and inspiring them to achieve their dreams. Her 1,000 mile race was her last big phsyical accomplishment. But there is still plenty she plans on doing to help and inspire others.
I was wowed when I read about all of Diane’s achievements, like using a stove in the arctic to unfreeze her water bottles so she had something to drink. Not only did she compete in races, she had to drag sleds weighted down with supplies like she was a bobsled dog. Scientists were astounded at how much she could push herself, even spectualating that part of her brain that registers pain may have been removed in the surgery. Diane herself insists it’s all mental, that you’re ability to cross that finish line lies in your head and your beliefs on whether you can or cannot do it. This story really touched me because although I have never suffered a seizure I have several physical limitations. I used to go to the gym but now I only do two laps around a small pond every morning. Diane’s story inspired me to try pushing myself harder (three laps, four laps) until I feel in good condition to go back to the gym.
Ron Clifford: This is one story of courage and bravery that made a lump rise to my throat. In September 2011 Ron arrived at a hotel nestled between the two Twin Towers for a meeting just as the first plane hit the first tower. One woman, Jennieann Maffeo, came running into the lobby. She had been burned via aviation fuel over 90 percent of her body. Her clothes were actually burned into her body. Ron immediately got a coat for the naked woman and began to usher her to safety as a second plane hit the second building. Right now Ron’s concern was for Jenniann. He had no way of knowing that the second plane contained his sister, Ruth, and his four year old niece. Ron and Ruth were extremely close. The loss was devastating. Ron began to exhibit signs of post traumatic stress disorder, seeing burning people jumping to their death from towers whenever he closed his eyes. Even more tragically Jennieann eventually passed away from her injuries. Finally, Ron went to see a doctor who speacilzied in post traumatic stress disorder. The doctor patiently went over with Ron every minute of that terrible morning. Eventually Ron was able to better come to terms with his loss and the loss of our nation. He testified at several terrorist’s trials in an effort to bring them to justice which he feels they definitely deserve. Ron’s story is inspiring because he got through one of the most horrific events in our nation’s history and he’s still able to smile today.
To those of who have been through a massive terrorist attack (like Ron), or a natural disaster or rape (like me) trauma therapy is like a gift from God. It took me about six months for my very capable therapist to guide me through a painful past so I could live a bright future. I only hope I am as courageous as Ron.
Roxanne Quimby Roxanne lived in humble beginnings. She and her husband George moved out to rural Maine in a cabin without electricity or running water. It doesn’t sound like it was an easy life but they found it rewarding. Then Roxanne gave birth to twins and suddenly she was washing diapers in boiled water and raising her children to love the outdoors. But the strain on her marriage was too much. Her and George divorced leaving Roxanne struggling to support her family. She hitchiked a ride with a local beekeeper and that was when Roxanne entered the beekeeping business selling honey alongside her newfound friend/ beekeeper (Burt). She turned the beeswax into candles. She made lip balm out of all natural ingredients. Meanwhile, the business expanded. At first, Roxanne and Burt sold locally, then to bigger craft fairs and finally in cities like Boston. The business escalated into a million dollar company. Maybe you’ve heard of it? Ever felt like your lips were chapped and reached in your pocket for a Burt’s Bee’s?
I loved this book. These six people from all walks of life and all situations. Their paths are different but they all exhibit strong values such as hard work, love and pride in one’s accomplishments. I’m really glad I read this book. Maybe you should read it too.
Amy Barnes: Amy escaped an abusive relationship and lost over 300 pounds. Neither is easy to do, especially not at the same time. Amy’s husband started off sweet, charismatic and romantic. He encouraged her to eat and slowly Amy packed the pounds on, food being her comfort, her addiction. He began to control her, demanding to know who she was talking to on the phone, checking the messages to see if any other guys or even her mother had called her. The control issue is a big red flag in domestic violence. When I was with one of my exes, that was the wake up call for me. It wasn’t the fact that he violated me while I was knocked out by my pills. It wasn’t the fact that he wanted me to move in with him even though neither of us had college degrees or jobs (not to mention I said I wasn’t ready). It was when he texted me “I don’t want you going to any more bars or parties without me” That was when alarm bells started ringing.
Thank God, it did not escalate to Amy’s situation who was brutally beaten and attacked in every way possible. I’m surprised she didn’t die. I think it must have been a mix of resilience and a miracle that saved her when her husband stabbed her in the stomach. She could have gone straight to the hospital. Instead, she risked her health going to the courthouse trying to get her kids back after Robert had beaten them for the first (and only) time. Amy’s whole world was her children so instead of feeling sorry for herself she got a job and worked at getting them back. Then she embraced a fitness routine, joined a gym and began to shed the pounds. It’s something I have really have had a hard time with. I know my medication gives me a voracious appetite and that my health makes it hard for me to do much physical activity. I turned to food way too much. Its my crutch and I need (from now on) to walk with both legs.
Lindsay Beck: Lindsay Beck was your average young adult until she discovered a canker sore on her tongue. Well, it wasn’t a canker sore. It was cancer. And it didn’t look good. She needed chemo and surgery. There were concerns about it of course. Would she be able to taste again after treatment? Would she even be able to talk (turns out she could!). But one of Lindsay's biggest worries was her fertility. Chemotherapy usually renders its patients sterile. When Lindsay found this out, she had her eggs frozen through diligent (and quick) research of her own. Still, she was uneasy that so many cancer patients were unaware that their treatment (designed to save their lives) could also lead to sterilization. So Lindsay decided to do something about it. She started a nonprofit called Fertile Hope that spread awareness about the risk of infertility at the hands of cancer treatment. She went from a small organization to sharing her mission statement with hospitals and cancer clinics across the country, educating patients and doctors alike. She found someone who saw past her as the “cancer girl”. They were married and began to try for children. They were successful despite (somewhat ironically) some fertility problems with her husband. They now have three children and she lives cancer-free.
Patrick Weiland: Originally started as a very successful journalist who was hired by Dateline NBC. Patrick was openly gay and not long after he arrived in California he was diagnosed with HIV. He broke up with his longterm partner and almost immediately began using crystal meth. So began the love affair. He became a functioning drug addict, using on Fridays and throught the weekend. He visited his family back East but never used while he was there. His parents still lived there as did his little sister Sue who struggled with alcohol abuse. Patrick tried multiple times getting clean, going to rehabs and outpatient programs but he just got worse. Soon he was injecting it, instead of just smoking it. And then everything changed. His little sister was murdered by her (also) alcoholic boyfriend. She had tried to leave him and he stabbed her nineteen times in the stomach, then claimed it was self-defense. Patrick and his whole family was determined to get justice and the boyfriend was convicted of second degree murder. Patrick (who had stopped taking his HIV meds until now out of sheer despair) had a 50-50 chance of getting better. He got clean and slowly began to feel better. Now you might catch him on the show Bizarre Foods With Andrew Zimmerman. He’ll do crystal meth but he won’t eat a taruntula.
Diane Van Deren: Diane grew up suffering from epelispy, a serious medical condition that causes her suffer from seizures. Finally, doctors removed a part of her brain that was causing the seizures. This left Diane free to pursue her passion. And her passion was running. But not just a marathon here or there. Diane became an ultrarunner, pushing herself to run over 100 miles at a time. She even ran places like The Artic, at one point falling through the ice, something that put her at serious risk for hypothermia and frostbite, which she thankfully avoided. No matter what the obstacle or injury, she would always press on, all the while maintaining a loving marriage and raising children. Diane still faced challenges from her illness such as having trouble with directions and forgetting simple things, like what to pack for a run (this caused her to rely on multiple alarms and Post-It notes). Diane gave back, talking to children who also had epilepsy and inspiring them to achieve their dreams. Her 1,000 mile race was her last big phsyical accomplishment. But there is still plenty she plans on doing to help and inspire others.
I was wowed when I read about all of Diane’s achievements, like using a stove in the arctic to unfreeze her water bottles so she had something to drink. Not only did she compete in races, she had to drag sleds weighted down with supplies like she was a bobsled dog. Scientists were astounded at how much she could push herself, even spectualating that part of her brain that registers pain may have been removed in the surgery. Diane herself insists it’s all mental, that you’re ability to cross that finish line lies in your head and your beliefs on whether you can or cannot do it. This story really touched me because although I have never suffered a seizure I have several physical limitations. I used to go to the gym but now I only do two laps around a small pond every morning. Diane’s story inspired me to try pushing myself harder (three laps, four laps) until I feel in good condition to go back to the gym.
Ron Clifford: This is one story of courage and bravery that made a lump rise to my throat. In September 2011 Ron arrived at a hotel nestled between the two Twin Towers for a meeting just as the first plane hit the first tower. One woman, Jennieann Maffeo, came running into the lobby. She had been burned via aviation fuel over 90 percent of her body. Her clothes were actually burned into her body. Ron immediately got a coat for the naked woman and began to usher her to safety as a second plane hit the second building. Right now Ron’s concern was for Jenniann. He had no way of knowing that the second plane contained his sister, Ruth, and his four year old niece. Ron and Ruth were extremely close. The loss was devastating. Ron began to exhibit signs of post traumatic stress disorder, seeing burning people jumping to their death from towers whenever he closed his eyes. Even more tragically Jennieann eventually passed away from her injuries. Finally, Ron went to see a doctor who speacilzied in post traumatic stress disorder. The doctor patiently went over with Ron every minute of that terrible morning. Eventually Ron was able to better come to terms with his loss and the loss of our nation. He testified at several terrorist’s trials in an effort to bring them to justice which he feels they definitely deserve. Ron’s story is inspiring because he got through one of the most horrific events in our nation’s history and he’s still able to smile today.
To those of who have been through a massive terrorist attack (like Ron), or a natural disaster or rape (like me) trauma therapy is like a gift from God. It took me about six months for my very capable therapist to guide me through a painful past so I could live a bright future. I only hope I am as courageous as Ron.
Roxanne Quimby Roxanne lived in humble beginnings. She and her husband George moved out to rural Maine in a cabin without electricity or running water. It doesn’t sound like it was an easy life but they found it rewarding. Then Roxanne gave birth to twins and suddenly she was washing diapers in boiled water and raising her children to love the outdoors. But the strain on her marriage was too much. Her and George divorced leaving Roxanne struggling to support her family. She hitchiked a ride with a local beekeeper and that was when Roxanne entered the beekeeping business selling honey alongside her newfound friend/ beekeeper (Burt). She turned the beeswax into candles. She made lip balm out of all natural ingredients. Meanwhile, the business expanded. At first, Roxanne and Burt sold locally, then to bigger craft fairs and finally in cities like Boston. The business escalated into a million dollar company. Maybe you’ve heard of it? Ever felt like your lips were chapped and reached in your pocket for a Burt’s Bee’s?
I loved this book. These six people from all walks of life and all situations. Their paths are different but they all exhibit strong values such as hard work, love and pride in one’s accomplishments. I’m really glad I read this book. Maybe you should read it too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2018
I would give this an almost four. Hoda Kotb writes about six different people who overcame obstacles in their lives. She continues their story by telling what became of them ten years later. Amy is a woman who marries young has two kids and is trapped in a marriage where she is severely abused she gains over 300 pounds. she leaves her husband and loses the weight. Lindsay B. gets cancer more than once and worries she will never kids because of it this is her story. Patrick works for network news and gets hooked on drugs and has a long road to getting off drugs. another woman has to get brain surgery to stop seizures she starts running to help stay seizure free. A man and family members are victims of 911. and Roxanne a woman who tries to start up a business to help support herself and her two kids. A pretty interesting book about people faced with situations and what they did to conquer.
March 16, 2013
A five star review for "Ten Years Later: Six People Who Faced Adversity & Transformed their Lives" by Hoda Kotb
In "Ten Years Later", Hoda chronicles six amazing stories by identifying a game-changing event in her subjects’ lives and then revisiting those lives a decade later. We meet Amy Barnes, who took the leap to escape an abusive relationship, lost an astounding 340 pounds, and now encourages women like her to cultivate their mental and physical strength. There’s also Ron Clifford, a civilian hero of 9/11, who saved the life of a burn victim in the wreckage of the towers—only to learn the same day that his beloved sister and niece were passengers on Flight 175. Patrick Weiland, a former network producer who won a Peabody at age twenty-two and later spiraled into drug addition, demonstrates the power of a second chance.
"Ten Years Later" is a firsthand testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. Through inspirational life stories, Hoda shows how adversity can unleash our best qualities: resilience, perseverance, gratitude, empathy, and creativity. This book will inspire you to believe in the future, no matter how dark the present, and tap into the ability to reach your highest potential.
Dear Readers: The book was a short easy read. But grab a box of Kleenex as it will tug on your heart strings. I recommend this book of inspiring stories and tips on how to overcome adversities!
In "Ten Years Later", Hoda chronicles six amazing stories by identifying a game-changing event in her subjects’ lives and then revisiting those lives a decade later. We meet Amy Barnes, who took the leap to escape an abusive relationship, lost an astounding 340 pounds, and now encourages women like her to cultivate their mental and physical strength. There’s also Ron Clifford, a civilian hero of 9/11, who saved the life of a burn victim in the wreckage of the towers—only to learn the same day that his beloved sister and niece were passengers on Flight 175. Patrick Weiland, a former network producer who won a Peabody at age twenty-two and later spiraled into drug addition, demonstrates the power of a second chance.
"Ten Years Later" is a firsthand testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. Through inspirational life stories, Hoda shows how adversity can unleash our best qualities: resilience, perseverance, gratitude, empathy, and creativity. This book will inspire you to believe in the future, no matter how dark the present, and tap into the ability to reach your highest potential.
Dear Readers: The book was a short easy read. But grab a box of Kleenex as it will tug on your heart strings. I recommend this book of inspiring stories and tips on how to overcome adversities!
June 27, 2014
This was a book club read for me, and it wasn't the type of book I would probably otherwise have read (which is one of the great opportunities that book clubs offer to us).
I liked it. I found it interesting and somewhat inspiring. But I didn't love it.
It didn't give me a deeper desire to be a better person, or give me much food for thought on how to accomplish that desire if it had been instilled. And I like my books to do that for me.
At the beginning of each of the six stories, I was very interested and captivated, but somewhere towards the middle they would start to drag a little and seem repetitive and drowning in details to me, and I was anxious to just cut to the end.
I guess I shouldn't be surprised by this, because Hoda works in the news media, but every story but one had already been covered in the news - people who had already received national media attention and acclaim. And the other one was someone who had achieved great acclaim working in the news media. Some of these people were so wildly successful that I found it difficult to relate to them.
I would have been more inspired if at least some of the stories featured average people who hadn't already had the limelight shown on them and who hadn't done things like build multi-multi-million dollar corporations, but done more simple and basic things - living lives of greatness, but living them quietly and not flamboyantly.
....but that is probably just me.
I liked it. I found it interesting and somewhat inspiring. But I didn't love it.
It didn't give me a deeper desire to be a better person, or give me much food for thought on how to accomplish that desire if it had been instilled. And I like my books to do that for me.
At the beginning of each of the six stories, I was very interested and captivated, but somewhere towards the middle they would start to drag a little and seem repetitive and drowning in details to me, and I was anxious to just cut to the end.
I guess I shouldn't be surprised by this, because Hoda works in the news media, but every story but one had already been covered in the news - people who had already received national media attention and acclaim. And the other one was someone who had achieved great acclaim working in the news media. Some of these people were so wildly successful that I found it difficult to relate to them.
I would have been more inspired if at least some of the stories featured average people who hadn't already had the limelight shown on them and who hadn't done things like build multi-multi-million dollar corporations, but done more simple and basic things - living lives of greatness, but living them quietly and not flamboyantly.
....but that is probably just me.
March 25, 2013
*I wont this book on Goodreads Giveaways".
I don't watch the Today Show, so wasn't familiar with Hoda, but the premise of the book sounded interesting.
I just now read through the other reviews. It's very interesting how differently people reacted to it.
I found the writing to be very good...easy to read, with details but usually not so much details to be tedious.
The six people...well, some I would have chosen and some I probably wouldn't have. The one who inspired me the most was the 9/11 survivor.
I have a friend going through a terrible time right now and thought I might give her the book. I'm not sure it will inspire her though I think she will enjoy it. But I think the premise is still interesting...where can she picture herself 10 years from now. And maybe something to think about during any difficult time...try to imagine a time beyond this current struggle, because most struggles don't last that long (of course there are exceptions).
Overall, a good book...just kind of felt like a couple of better subjects might have been chosen in place of a couple she chose. Since I haven't lived their particular problems, I won't name the ones who did not inspire me.
I don't watch the Today Show, so wasn't familiar with Hoda, but the premise of the book sounded interesting.
I just now read through the other reviews. It's very interesting how differently people reacted to it.
I found the writing to be very good...easy to read, with details but usually not so much details to be tedious.
The six people...well, some I would have chosen and some I probably wouldn't have. The one who inspired me the most was the 9/11 survivor.
I have a friend going through a terrible time right now and thought I might give her the book. I'm not sure it will inspire her though I think she will enjoy it. But I think the premise is still interesting...where can she picture herself 10 years from now. And maybe something to think about during any difficult time...try to imagine a time beyond this current struggle, because most struggles don't last that long (of course there are exceptions).
Overall, a good book...just kind of felt like a couple of better subjects might have been chosen in place of a couple she chose. Since I haven't lived their particular problems, I won't name the ones who did not inspire me.
August 19, 2015
"These people didn't just fight their way through adversity, they forged better lives because of the battle. Their journeys are measured in the very small steps that painstakingly result in change and the big leaps of faith that launched dreams." ~Hoda
"The two most important days of your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why." ~Amy Barnes, survived domestic abuse and lost 340lbs.
"I know that her dying saved my life. There's only one thing left I can do for my beloved sister. I can honor her life by living mine well." ~Patrick Weiland, lost a sister to domestic violence and overcame drug addiction.
"I just wanted to gather everybody and hold hands, and I just went into prayer to thank God for the journey, and the gifts, and the gift of life, the beauty he had shown through every person who was with me." ~ Diane Van Deren, elite runner who underwent brain surgery following a decade of seizures.
My immense respect and love for Ron Clifford grows each time I sit down and talk with him. ~Hoda
You have to cherish people and don't go to bed feeling angry in your heart toward the one you love. You just have to tell people you care about them. ~Ron Clifford 9/11.
"The two most important days of your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why." ~Amy Barnes, survived domestic abuse and lost 340lbs.
"I know that her dying saved my life. There's only one thing left I can do for my beloved sister. I can honor her life by living mine well." ~Patrick Weiland, lost a sister to domestic violence and overcame drug addiction.
"I just wanted to gather everybody and hold hands, and I just went into prayer to thank God for the journey, and the gifts, and the gift of life, the beauty he had shown through every person who was with me." ~ Diane Van Deren, elite runner who underwent brain surgery following a decade of seizures.
My immense respect and love for Ron Clifford grows each time I sit down and talk with him. ~Hoda
You have to cherish people and don't go to bed feeling angry in your heart toward the one you love. You just have to tell people you care about them. ~Ron Clifford 9/11.
November 6, 2013
I LOVED this book! I've been meaning to read it since it came out just because the premise seems interesting to me. I'm really glad that I finally got around to reading it!! Very easy read, I read it quickly, and the stories were not only interesting but also inspiring. The whole "10 years later" thing is a little misleading, I was expecting to hear about someone going through a tough Ike, facing hardships, then seeing exactly where they were in life a decade later. However, it was more detailed stories about people getting through tough times, or at least some kind of hardship, who overcome their adversity and do something extraordinary with their life...then it briefly touches on the whole "ten years later" aspect, it's hard to explain. Ether way, the book was great, I recommended it to two people already and I advise anyone who's thinking of reading it to do so..I cannot imagine anyone truly disliking this book.
August 30, 2016
If you ever begin to feel sorry for yourself, pull out a copy of Ten Years Later: Six People Who Faced Adversity and Transformed Their Lives by Hoda Kotb and read one of the stories. It will remind you that everyone has a story that the majority of us have no inkling of. That alone should help you feel better; but when you read how these people not only accepted their challenges, but rose above them in huge, significant ways, you will be humbled.
This book reminds us of the resiliency of the human spirit, how the darkest times can be those that make us the strongest, and what amazing things can come out of the things that we thought would do us in.
Kudos to all involved in this book, and thank-you to those who shared their stories.
I received a copy of this book through the Goodreads first-reads program in exchange for an honest review of the book. I have not been influenced in any way regarding my review.
This book reminds us of the resiliency of the human spirit, how the darkest times can be those that make us the strongest, and what amazing things can come out of the things that we thought would do us in.
Kudos to all involved in this book, and thank-you to those who shared their stories.
I received a copy of this book through the Goodreads first-reads program in exchange for an honest review of the book. I have not been influenced in any way regarding my review.
October 30, 2013
"Ten Years Later" is about six people that Hoda Kotb interviewed and then ten years later interviewed them again to see what they had done with their lives after life altering experiences. The book was fascinating, and inspiring. I was amazed at the fortitude of these ordinary but extra-ordinary people.
It also made me realize that we all have moments that alter the course of our lives. The book made me evaluate my own life, looking back on significant positive or devastating events in my own life. I think I have changed for the better in most cases but I still see room for growth as I look at the extraordinary things achieved by these six remarkable people.
I might add a seventh inspirational person from reading this book and that is Hoda Kotb herself. It seems she is a survivor of cancer and has written a book about it. I might have to read that one too.
It also made me realize that we all have moments that alter the course of our lives. The book made me evaluate my own life, looking back on significant positive or devastating events in my own life. I think I have changed for the better in most cases but I still see room for growth as I look at the extraordinary things achieved by these six remarkable people.
I might add a seventh inspirational person from reading this book and that is Hoda Kotb herself. It seems she is a survivor of cancer and has written a book about it. I might have to read that one too.
December 28, 2017
The audio books that I am listening to are pretty much chosen by me going through my to read list and checking out all the one that are available at my library. So it's very fortuitous that this one came up when it did. This has been a very tough year. The sudden loss of my father, several other deaths of family members of mine and other close friends, and a multitude of health worries of others that I love. You would think this book could lean towards being depressing or overdone on the emotion, and it is neither. It's really quite amazing what these 6 people faced and survived. I highly recommend this book to anyone needing something uplifting, and wondering how you are going to get by.
January 22, 2013
This book featured a diverse group of 6 people who all faced very traumatic or seemingly insurmountable events in their lives and eventually came through them. I did find the subject interesting-most people face some form of tragedy in their lives and for some it ruins and stunts them forever, while others plod through, and go on to live, create, and be, more, in spite of it all. What is the difference? Most of my tragedies have been by proxy and I would like to think I have gotten through my difficulties relatively unscathed. The only advice that I ever offer, and seemed to be a common thread of these individuals, is to just to keep going. It's sounds too simple, is always going to be easier said than done, but is really the only option.
June 22, 2013
This is not the best written book in the world, but it is fascinating. Television news anchor and host Hoda Kotb reads her own book profiling 6 people who overcame varying adverse circumstances. Viewing the struggle from 10 years later gives them and us perspective on what it takes to survive. A television newscaster as narrator is a little different than most nonfiction book narrators. Many spoken lines come across as headlines. Some of the adversity is horrific and hard to listen to, but more time is spent on how the person moved on and found ways to make a meaningful contribution to the world a well as heal themselves. It makes you review your own life and encourages you to give life your best effort.
February 26, 2013
I asked for suggestions of books to read. My sister mentioned she wanted to read Hoda Kotb's book "10 Years Later". She had heard about it on the Today show. I went and searched out the book. Not realizing it at the time, Hoda was one of the anchors on the last hour of the TODAY show. I personally am in a transition with my job at this time I have picked up the book. The inspiring stories in this book have energized me to look deeper in my search. To become inspired in my own surroundings. To follow that Idea of my "dream job". Need some inspiration, check out this book!
May 28, 2013
A Truly inspiring collection. I enjoy seeing Hoda on television.
This book is a great read for everyone, whether you are in the dumps or have mastered the art of self motivation.
We all need the prodding sometimes.
Again the stories prove the indomitable human spirit and what I believe " Impossible is Nothing"
The human mind is more powerful, that we even imagine and once you reach the point of recognizing it, you can climb Mount Everest and learn how to convert every stumbling stone on your path, into a stepping stone to forge ahead
This book is a great read for everyone, whether you are in the dumps or have mastered the art of self motivation.
We all need the prodding sometimes.
Again the stories prove the indomitable human spirit and what I believe " Impossible is Nothing"
The human mind is more powerful, that we even imagine and once you reach the point of recognizing it, you can climb Mount Everest and learn how to convert every stumbling stone on your path, into a stepping stone to forge ahead
April 22, 2013
I really liked this book. It has 6 different stories that range from heart-wrenching to inspirational. Ironically the story that drew me to read the book originally is the one I liked the least. Also of the 6 people, there were two men and I felt like their stories were just lacking details I wanted. What I mean is that they were noticeably shorter than the other four stories told by females and made big leaps that I couldn't follow, sometimes with no explanation. Maybe men just don't talk as much. All in all however a good read.
June 23, 2013
I wanted this book for my Kindle the minute I saw her talk about it on television. Then, I stumbled onto it in the library and grabbed it. I can't say it was exactly what I was thinking/hoping it would be. The six people left me wanting in some ways...none of them seemed to be "regular" folks but people that cross paths with Hoda at NBC or who she has interviewed/met in the past via the Today show. I was hoping for inspiration for the regular people who do not stumble onto some strange dude selling honey and walks away twenty years later with over a quarter of a billion dollars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2013
It is a good book. As the title describes, Kotb tells the story of six people who in the face of grave adversity chose to rise above their circumstances. The stories are quite motivating as such. But interesting as the book was, I kept feeling the whole time I was reading it that something was missing. Later, it struck me what it was that was missing: Kotb only told the story of these people and did not spell out clearly what lessons they learnt or what lessons Kotb learnt from these stories. I kept missing the reason why she wrote this book.....
July 24, 2013
I enjoyed reading all of these well-written biographies. Amy Barnes became involved with an abusive man, had two children and was morbidly obese. She escaped the man, took care of her children, and moved to a different part of the country to re-invent herself. She's an amazing person. Lindsay Beck, a young cancer patient, became an activist for preserving young chemotherapy patient's fertility. Their stories and those of Diane Van Deren and Ron Clifford just make you realize that your life (I hope) is very easy. Well worth reading.
July 30, 2013
I will admit that I picked up this book (electronically) after seeing Hoda on Watch What Happens Live. I didn't have great expectations, but it sounded interesting. It is sort of a reality TV of books. There are six stories of people overcoming a lot of obstacles in their lives and then an update of their original story. It wasn't deep reading, but engaging, again, in a reality TV sort of way. I can see why each story would have made a good Dateline piece. Light reading in a heavy way at some points.
September 13, 2014
*I received the book for free through Goodreads First Reads*
I liked the diversity of life stories that the author covered in this book such as abuse, depression, trauma and health problems. The picture painted was so descriptive that I was able to picture myself in each situation. I don't know if I would have been able to overcome as well as the people were able to. I found the stories very inspiring. I was most impressed to learn about the existence of ultramarathons, and to learn the history of the Burt's Bees brand that I walk by in the store all the time.
I liked the diversity of life stories that the author covered in this book such as abuse, depression, trauma and health problems. The picture painted was so descriptive that I was able to picture myself in each situation. I don't know if I would have been able to overcome as well as the people were able to. I found the stories very inspiring. I was most impressed to learn about the existence of ultramarathons, and to learn the history of the Burt's Bees brand that I walk by in the store all the time.
January 31, 2013
Hoda has introduced the reader to six interesting people who have faced terrible adversity, including illness, disaster, abuse or other challenges. They have overcome obstacles and moved ahead with their lives. Visiting with them ten years after their trauma leads to their interesting and positive transformations. Change happens gradually, but looking at a ten year time frame, the reader is able to see the incredible changes to the lives of these six people. Very inspiring.
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