Breaking Chains: The 6 Links of Turning Bondage into Tools of Freedom

by Blake B. Shelley, Tony Muncy (Illustrator )

Have you ever felt trapped by a challenge or by circumstances beyond your control? Living with Cerebral Palsy, Blake Shelley has experienced this time and again. There have been times when he has felt bound by his disability. However, what sets Blake apart from others is that he does not take no for an answer. Over the course of his twenty-seven-year journey he has discovered a system of turning bondage into tools of freedom. In this book, he shares his 6 Links of Turning Bondage into Tools of Freedom and invites you on a journey through his life. Blake hopes that sharing his experience and the lessons he’s learned will empower you to rise above your challenges and find freedom and success.

102 pages, Paperback

Published September 27, 2017

About the author

As a person with a disability, Blake has had to overcome many obstacles and challenges over the course of his life. At the age of six months, Blake was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (CP), which was due to a lack of oxygen at birth. The Mayo Clinic defines Cerebral Palsy as a disorder of movement, muscle tone, or posture that is caused by an insult to the immature, developing brain, most often before birth.

CP has made everyday tasks (ADLs) such as eating, walking, and typing extremely difficult. However, it has also taught him how to persevere while not being defined by a disability. It was ingrained in Blake by his parents and support system to never give up on his goals.

The confidence Blake found through his faith, family, and friends enabled him to attend George Fox University in Newberg, OR, on a scholarship through the Act Six Leadership Initiative (founded by Northwest Leadership Foundation and the Portland Leadership Foundation), and earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Christian Ministries.

Since graduating from George Fox, Blake has devoted his time and resources to improving the quality of life of others, particularly those who have been impacted by disability, as well as educating the public about physical and emotional hurdles faced by young entrepreneurs. He has pursued this through promoting disability awareness in public schools, mentorship, disabilities advocacy, disabilities ministries, and educating the general public through speaking engagements. Using these experiences as a foundation, Blake is now bringing his message of breaking chains to those seeking success in their personal and professional lives.

Reviews

[Diane Carbone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Breaking Chains is a quick read - however it’s very impactful. Everyone of us has challenges- this books shares how to hit these challenges head on. At the end of each chapter are reflection questions, which are helpful

[Brianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It’s a quick read, but so full of inspiration and reminders on how to stay motivated and positive and productive. I enjoyed hearing Blake present anecdotes from his life and learning about his journey. This book gave me lots to think about. And I especially enjoyed the photo and shoutout to his best bud, Stanley.

[Taryn Eager · Rating 5 out of 5]

Started this read to show some support. Realized this was the book I needed for a healthy mindset shift! Inspiring, encouraging, and so well written! Quick but powerful read.