Pressed but not Crushed

by Andrew Davies, Barbara Davies, Emma Davies

Andy has had a major stroke in the brain stem, the control centre of the brain. This has left him with Locked-in syndrome which means his entire body has shut down, but the cognitive part of his brain is undamaged. He retains all his knowledge, understanding and intellect; his personality and character are unchanged and he knows exactly what has happened. His condition is critical and, if he survives, the Locked-in syndrome means he is unlikely to be able to live any form of independent life again, totally dependent on others for everything. In which case Andy may not wish to go on... Thirty-three years old, happily married to a lovely wife, a great job in dentistry, a strong Christian faith...life seemed just about perfect for Andy Davies. But then, shockingly, Andy suffered a massive stroke, leaving him with 'Locked-in syndrome'. Paralysed and only able to communicate by a series of blinks, Andy's life, and that of his family, was changed forever.

194 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 12, 2015

About the author

Andrew Wynford Davies is a British author and screenwriter.

Reviews

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very candid account and amazing testimony of courage and faith in the most testing of times. Had me in tears and encouraged and uplifted. An amazing couple and family. Could not put the book down. Feeling humbled and wiser.

[Malcolm Down · Rating 5 out of 5]

Andrew's story is quite remarkable. A top dentist in the UK, a beautiful wife and an outdoor adventurer, Andrew seemed to have it all. Then disaster strikes and a stroke leaves Andrew with locked-in syndrome with most of his body unable to function though his mind left completely intact.
Andrew and his family have shown enormous courage and this book is a testimony to what can be achieved when life smacks you in the face. One of the most moving books I have ever read.