When Life Gets You Down, Rise Up!

by Kacey McCallister

It was a crisp winter day when six-year-old Kacey McCallister lost both of his legs, forever altering the course of his life. This unthinkable trial could have broken him, but from that day forward he chose to rise above his circumstances and learn to live without limits.  For those struggling to find hope in the depths of physical, spiritual, or emotional trials, this incredible story of one man’s unbreakable courage will inspire and motivate readers to not only survive but thrive amidst life’s challenges. A true testament to the power of the human spirit, When Life Gets You Down, Rise Up! demonstrates the refining power that can be found in the midst of overwhelming odds, a power available to all who will take hold of it and rise.

Genres: Nonfiction, Lds

207 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2019

Reviews

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This man is an inspiration. He knows what it means to "Rise Up!".

When Kacey was six he was in a horrible accident that took both of his legs. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, he has figured out how to do the things that he wanted to do. He doesn't give up, he just thinks outside the box.

I am truly amazed at the story that Kacey has to share. At the moment I am recovering from surgery that has me down for longer than I would like. Reading his story has taken me from my own misery and reminded me that life is good and that perseverance, grit, determination, etc make difficult circumstances doable. This man doesn't just go through life, he lives a quality life due to his own attitude and fortitude.

This book inspires to do and be better. One man can make a difference in helping others discover their better selves. I highly recommend this book to everyone, whether or not you are struggling.

This book does contain religious elements. It is not the main subject of the book, he shares how his faith helped him through difficult times.

Source: I received a complimentary copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

[Shauna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is PHENOMENAL! I loved every minute of it!
Every story is fabulous, every detail is incredible!
Kacey McCallister really is a positive influence-
He is simply AMAZING!
I highly recommend this book!

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy reading books like this one. This is a true story of someone who deals with hard things in their lives. My favorite thing about this kind of book is being able to see that someone else can rise above things. And knowing that I too, can rise above my own hard things. And so can you. We all have them.

This one is about Kacey, as a six year old he lost his legs in an accident. And, instead of letting him get down about it, his parents pushed him. They pushed him to be the best version of himself he could be. Not the crippled boy in the corner. Reading his story, I think that is what made all the difference in his life.

You see, Kacey doesn’t believe there is anything he can’t do. And he has done everything. As I read this one, I was amazed by just how many things he has done. He’s been a Spartan, several times, even getting the Trifecta award. He wrestled, ran track, did cross country, you name it, he’s probably tried it. And he learned a lot of lessons about himself and about life on his journey.

I loved the way he wrote his own book. He did a great job making it readable and interesting. You definitely want to read this one. I loved every bit of it!

[Elizabeth Reid · Rating 4 out of 5]

A dynamite book that my teenage daughter quickly took from me once I'd finished it. If you struggle with any kind of disability, read this book. If you are an athlete or wanna-be-athlete, read this book. If you'd like to feel better about your trials in life, read this book.

Here's the link for my Deseret News review: https://www.deseret.com/2019/11/12/20...

[Laney · Rating 3 out of 5]

5 stars for Kacey himself. Incredible grit and determination and physical accomplishments.

Maybe 3.5 for the book itself.

[Sheila (sheilasbookreviewer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was such an amazing one to read! I was blown away at the courage and endurance that Kacey McCallister has shown throughout his life. Kacey was so blessed to have wonderful parents, doctors, teachers, and leaders that encouraged him along the way. Even though Kacey's story should make you sit there and cry at what happened to him, readers will be so lifted up by Kacey and his great spirit. I know that reading about Kacey's life really made me want to try harder and dig deeper into my own soul. Kacey proved to himself and those around him that if you try hard you can do anything.

If you are looking for a book that will encourage & uplift you, then I KNOW that When Life Gets You Down: Rise Up! is a must-read book for you! This book is a 5-Star book that should be read by all ages of readers.

****Come follow me at my blog to read more reviews: https://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot...***

***Like my Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/WhyNotBecaus...***

[Alisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 -4 stars ish. This was quite the inspiring life. In a terrible car accident, Kacey loses both his legs to amputation at age 6. This book is kid of his life story since that time. I was impressed by how even as a six-year-old, Kacey didn't let that stop him from doing so many things his friends were doing. He went on to go to state wrestling in high school, cross country, and other amazing sporting things. He is also a dad and spartan racer. This book is any easy read. The only thing that got a little mundane were the last 40ish pages were mostly about how he did Spartan racing. Of course, that is an AMAZING feat for anyone, let alone an amputee, but having so many pages dedicated to the actual obstacles and course info got a little old for the last 50 pages. Overall, Kacey is an inspiring person for sure. I admired his grit and dedication to proving he could do anything someone with legs could do.

[Keturah · Rating 4 out of 5]

When Life Gets You Down, Rise Up! By Kacey McCallister
4 Stars

This of an inspirational novel about a man who is lost both legs after being hit by a semi truck as a child. He talks about all of the things he’s still been able to do even as a double amputee.

For me, this was not my cup of tea. I felt like it was toxically positive. It was a lot of “I worked really hard and wasn’t sad about not having my legs”

His repeatedly stated goal is to inspire people. And so all of the stories are very inspirational. I do wish that he’d been a little more transparent with the hards of his experience.

That said, it was very well written and entertaining. If it’s the type of book you like, you’ll probably really enjoy it. I’d say go for it.

[Kim Dennis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding book. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars. Kacey McCallister has overcome some pretty incredible obstacles in his life with a phenomenal attitude. If you get the chance, I highly recommend listening to this book rather than reading it. He reads it and while it is obvious he is not a professional author, that actually adds to the charm. It is so fun listening to his expressions as he reads. Truly amazing and one I will probably find myself listening to again sometime.

[M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!! I don't know quite how else to describe it. He is an inspiration of hope and optimism. Kacey ready his own book, which helped me get to know him and invest in his story even more. He wasn't the most polished reader, but that was part of the charm. I loved listening to him tell his story. His humor is fantastic, and I found myself laughing out loud at different points. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. Highly recommend to anyone!

[Heidi Robbins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring story of a man who lost his legs at age 6. He decided he would be able to do anything he wanted and has accomplished amazingly hard, physical activities. I listened to the audio, read by the author. It was fun to hear his personality at times and at other times it was obvious he hasn’t done that kind of thing before as he stumbled over words. Great book that I would easily recommend!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. What an incredible story. I’m glad at the end though that he admits that he sometimes gets discouraged. What an amazing attitude though. Gives me courage to face the obstacles in my path. My SIL gave me this book when I was going through radiation therapy. When I get tired and think I can’t go on I think of Kaycee and know I can do hard things.

[Lindsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a really inspiring book. I found the first 2/3rds more interesting than the last third. His attitude is phenomenal. His grit and determination remarkable. I listened to this book which was narrated by Kacey the author which was also enjoyable. It brought the story to life.

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Definitely better in print than on audio.

[Tafta Watson]

A true story about a man who loses both legs in an accident when he was 6-years-old. It is the story of overcoming his obstacles.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gets a 5 for the incredible story. I am amazed at Kacey’s life and level of motivation.

[Cheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Kacey doesn't back down when staring defeat in the face. Rise. Up, each time you fall.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you think you can’t, think again. This book is about an amazing man who defies all odds to live his life well! Great book.

[Deb Woitte · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspiring story

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such and positive and courageous young man. So impressed with him and his determination to make the most of his life. A very positive read!

[Jamie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great story of the power of the human spirit and someone who works hard to really know who he is.

[Kasey Bahr · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was exhausted reading this book! What a great guy. He's overcome so much!

[Mitch Holyoak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very inspiring and entertaining story.

[Molly Strat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our family could not have enjoyed this book more. So funny and inspiring at the same time. The version narrated by the author is terrific as well.

[Sharon Hogenson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great motivational book, but I agree that it is best if you can listen to the audio version!

[Angela Cov · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an inspiring story!

[Darci · Rating 2 out of 5]

Crazy story and inspirational on many ways but honestly left me wanting a little. The writing was pretty poor, and I felt like it focused so much on the nitty gritty play by play of individual races/matches (most of which in middle and high school even) which I tired of quickly. There is so much more that I wanted to know about life as a double amputee that he really didn’t address at all.

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

At 6 years of age, Kacey was hit by a semi and lost his legs. This didn't seem to phase him! Kacey's sense of humour, love of life and hard work got him through the challenges that God gave him, and the many challenges he brought on himself and with his amazing wife! I'm completely awed and inspired, and entertained!


"I made myself a boot for my booty, ha!" -Kacey

[Aly McElhaney · Rating 4 out of 5]

A true and inspiring story of taking what life throws at you head-on and rising above the challenges that come with it. A true testament to the power of the human spirit, “When Life Gets You Down, Rise Up!”

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect words of encouragement and hope. He knows how to never surrender, never give up even in the midst of self doubt and fear. He’s an everyday guy doing extraordinary things!