Not Worth Saving: How a Severely Handicapped Boy Transformed Lives

by Ann L. Joyner

Doctors told a young mother that her unborn child’s life was Not Worth Saving. With the determination that mother found through faith, Matthew thrived, and he did live. He spoke without talking; he loved, laughed, and made friends—all without ever saying a single word. Matthew was a light and a joy to those who encountered him. In Not Worth Saving, Ann Joyner shares the story of her son Matthew’s twenty-one miraculous and grace-filled years—and, unwittingly, reveals so much more about the number of lives and hearts Matthew changed, simply by being alive.

160 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2014

About the author

Ann Joyner, author of Not Worth Saving, proved with a two year secretarial degree that a passionate, determined, and stubborn mother, who asks for God's help needn't have an MA, PhD, or MD to turn a life "not worth saving" into one that touches and saves thousands of others. Speaking around the country, Ann has filled audiences with hope, replacing their darkness with light.

Reviews

[Alexis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This i# a beautiful story of family love and acceptance. The writing is well done and captured the emotion of the events being described.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a goodreads first reads winner of this inspirational book. this is written by Ann Joyner. When pregnant for her second baby, after a couple tests, it was determined the baby she was carrying would have severe disabilities. It was predicted the baby would be born either stillborn or die soon after birth. Heartbroken they went on with the birth and their baby boy Matthew was born. even though he had many illnesses, his kidneys did not function, he was going to be severely disabled. Matthew had added on obstacles as he grew older but he surprised everyone by surviving. the family found over the years the kindness people can have and sadly the cruel people as well. Matthew brought joy to anyone who met him. at sixteen he was diagnosed with cancer. sadly he died at 21 years old. This book is devoted to his life the influence he had on others. the author Matthew's mother offers many Bible quotes she felt helped her to cope over the years. This is a good read. I was glad to see the pictures included so I could see their beautiful son. Glad I got the chance to learn about Matthew and his family.

[Barbara Graft Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book - no boring parts.

[Lydia Gates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such love and devotion by this mother.
This book was on the National List for United Methodist Women's Reading Program for 2016.

[Erika · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to say I really enjoyed this book. It was such a fast read but full of faith, hope, love, and inspiration. The story of matthew is a reminder of how God is always faithful and how we as a church should show love and lend a hand to anyone whom may need it. As someone who is going for a major in physical therapy and sometimes having doubts, this book reminded me why i wanted to do it in the first place. I would totally recomend it.


*I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a first-reads win. This was a very good book. It was a very fast read.It was a very inspirational book. It highlights the gifts that special needs children can give to all of us. Also we are not in control of things. God is in control and he makes miracles happen. He is the one who decided you lives or dies. In this book you learn to be grateful for everyday and the people he puts in your life. It shows just how much someone can influence other peoples lives.

[Gayle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book free from Goodreads Giveaways.

This is a very inspirational book about how Matthew brought happiness to others and also how they brought happiness to Matthew. He showed how the handicapped are people like everyone else and how they like to be included in what's going on in their surroundings. I agree with the other reviews about this book. You should read this book. It's excellent!

[Ruth Woodward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What amazing faith.

[Claire · Rating 2 out of 5]

The response people had to Mattie may have been because his needs and those of his family may have been visible to those around him. Fortunately, he was surrounded by receptive people.

[Hetty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing true story.

[Debra]

Predictable story. Incredibly fast read. Story jumps around and doesn't flow correctly with time.