Locked In Locked Out

by Shawn Jennings MD

Can there be life after a brainstem stroke? The answer is a resounding yes! Living proof is Dr. Shawn Jennings, author of Locked In Locked Out . In 1999, Dr. Shawn, a busy family physician, suffered a brainstem stroke that left him a living person in a dead body, unable to move, speak, smile or feed himself... He did the only thing he could. With only two functional fingers, he wrote a book. Locked In Locked Out has enjoyed its third printing since August 28, 2002, and is flying off the shelves. This book has given hope and comfort to other stroke victims and their families, and is an important tool for medical practitioners and caregivers, particularly heart specialists, interns, nurses, nursing students and physiotherapists. Dr. Shawn has taken his PowerPoint presentation to venues in Canada and the United States. He maintains a busy schedule and says he is joyous to be alive.

207 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2002

Reviews

[Tara Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

An amazing true story of a doctor turned patient. The main character was a healthy doctor in New Brunswick who suffered a massive brain stem stroke following what seemed to be a harmless whiplash. His medical issues are explained in easy to understand terms. His journey through rebuilding his life is described honestly. The impacts on his children(3 teenagers/young adults) and wife are also made obvious. This book would be great for any student in the medical field wishing to gain perspective on what patient's are feeling. Also, this book should be recommended for all families having to deal with a family member becoming suddenly disabled. An easy to read book that will make you cry, laugh, and stay awake all night reading!

[Elisabeth Manley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Even though I had to read this for school, I'm really glad I did. It's too bad this story isn't more widely available but seems to only be available through educational institutions. Not only is it an inspirational story but also includes a variety of personal accounts from Dr Jennings when he had been a doctor himself. Excellent read for anyone going into the healthcare system or who is interested in this rare condition of brainstem strokes.

[Lori Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not a book on the Best Sellers list, but my family has recently been thrown a curve ball - my brother suffered a brainstem stroke and this first person account of the struggles and challenges has helped us to understand the medical vision and the personal determination to move from one day to another. It definitely gave us hoe in what in now our journey!!!

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting, informative and hopeful storyline. All medical personel should read.

[Paula Daniels · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing life story of struggle, courage & love. Informative prose concerning brain stem stroke and 'locked in' syndrome. Inspiring

[Darlene S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Locked In Locked Out. I admire Shawn's ability to share openly and honestly about his struggle to reclaim his life after a devastating brainstem stroke at the age of 45. As a doctor, he is able to provide a glimpse of his situation from a medical and patient viewpoint. His sense of humour is wonderful. I laughed and I cried throughout this book. He speaks about his loving wife and family and the importance of this love to help him keep fighting. Thank you, Shawn, for writing your story and for updating it. I hope that all healthcare providers read this book because I believe it will make them a better practitioner. Understanding a stroke from a survivor's perspective can be very helpful for anyone who interacts with someone who has suffered such a loss. I wish Shawn and his family many more years of happiness.

[Ling · Rating 4 out of 5]

this book was more interesting than i thought it would be. For those who like games, this is a great book to go for.

[Emily Belliveau · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good read!

[Mila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I came across this book on CBC New Brunswick news. I admire his courage.

[Trudy]

excellent