Shuffle: A Way Forward, Whatever the Challenge

by Wendall Woodall

After being diagnosed with a chronic disease, it’s normal to react at first with anger, grief, depression, and withdrawal, but what’s next? Wendall “Windy” Woodall faced that question at age 49 when a doctor told him that he had young onset Parkinson’s disease. Woodall writes, “I have made a decision … . I can face the future with sadness, despair, and a crippling sense of hopelessness, or I can choose to see each day as a gift that I dare not squander nor take for granted.” Although Woodall doesn’t move as swiftly as he did before, he’s pushing ahead with honesty, humor, and openness. In A Way Forward, Whatever the Challenge , he shares warm and self-deprecating memories about his own weaknesses and personal growth, even before his diagnosis. He describes his medical journey and his approach to staying as healthy as he can, and he shares how his family’s humor has helped him to cope. With biblical insight, he explains how he’s moving forward—believing that there is yet life to be lived—and striving to inspire others to shuffle toward hope, no matter what challenges life may bring.

134 pages, Paperback

First published March 26, 2014

Reviews

[Lisa Kearns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wendall Woodall is many things: husband, father, grandfather, school principal, pastor, funny guy, and a PWP (Person With Parkinson's Disease). Many people facing the uncertain future of Parkinson's would simply give in to becoming an invalid, but Mr. Woodall decided he wasn't going to surrender. He was going to face his disease with faith, hope and a good sense of humor.

"Shuffle: A Way Forward, Whatever The Challenge" is part autobiography, part sermon, part medical information on Parkinson's, part stand-up comedy, and totally enjoyable. He obviously adores his wife and daughters, is loved by his coworkers, students and friends, and has a true heart for service to his community. There's nothing maudlin between the covers of this book, despite the fact that he will live the rest of his life with debilitating neuromuscular disease. He breaks the book down into chapters that will help anyone suffering with a chronic illness, or even those just needing help focusing on living a purposeful life - subjects like Honesty, Humility, Help, Habitudes, Heart, Humor, and Hope.

I read Shuffle in two sittings, while laughing through tears and admiring his attitude and determination to enjoy every day. Mr. Woodall is one of those people who, if you meet them somewhere, you walk away with your faith and your outlook boosted WAY up. I also found reassurance while reading this book, that my prayers are precious and pleasing to God even when I don't use flowery or formal language.

I received a copy of Shuffle directly from the author, for review purposes. But this is the kind of uplifting book I look for and buy for myself. I give this book 5 stars, and would give it more if I could.