What do you think?
Rate this book
Pushing Through: From Amputation to the Paralympics. The Transformation of a Shattered Soul
Adrift, with a broken soul, addicted to drugs and alcohol, Rex wandered the streets of bad choices. At the age of 18, a vehicle tragedy forever changed his life, hurling him further into the fringes of society. Wanting once and for all to turn his life around and move beyond adversity, Rex transplanted to Colorado. There, he rooted himself in spirituality and recovery and tilled the soil deep inside his interior. To get in physical shape and overcome his disability, a friend suggested the sport of bicycling, which took Rex to the solace of the open roads and mountain biking trails and ultimately to the Paralympics.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 3, 2019
3 people are currently reading
11 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
August 11, 2020
“Some souls just aren’t meant to be contained.”
Rex Patrick never thought he was destined for greatness. A drug addict and a paraplegic, the chances of him living past the age of thirty weren’t in his favor. But, eventually he finds his way into accepting the 12-step program, finding faith and guidance in not just God, but in cycling as well. He climbs above adversaries and doubts to become not just an Olympian, not just a champion, but also an inspiration.
In this compelling debut novel by Lori Yerxa, we are taken on a journey through Rex’s life. The compelling narrative wraps us in not just his story, but his emotions, his desires, and his unrelenting wish to compete. He does not let his disability define him, and despite all his struggles to compete, he comes to deny his addiction as well.
But while Rex is an inspiration in what he accomplished, from climbing out of homelessness and into the world stage, his story also heeds a warning. It shows the way addiction claws into someone, and no matter how long they are sober, no matter how hard they try, one misstep will send them back into the abyss. Yerxa does an amazing job planting the reader in Rex’s struggles, and through all his missteps and fortunes, there is a message: never give up…and most importantly, keep coming back.
Unfortunately due how and when this book was written, we are left with some holes in Rex’s story. It is impossible to write a biography accurately, even if the person is heavily involved. Yerxa did a fantastic job in telling us Rex’s story though. I don’t think it will be forgotten.
For anyone out there struggling against addiction, self-doubt, or uncertainty, read Rex Patrick’s story. Perhaps you can accomplish something fantastic just the same.
Rex Patrick never thought he was destined for greatness. A drug addict and a paraplegic, the chances of him living past the age of thirty weren’t in his favor. But, eventually he finds his way into accepting the 12-step program, finding faith and guidance in not just God, but in cycling as well. He climbs above adversaries and doubts to become not just an Olympian, not just a champion, but also an inspiration.
In this compelling debut novel by Lori Yerxa, we are taken on a journey through Rex’s life. The compelling narrative wraps us in not just his story, but his emotions, his desires, and his unrelenting wish to compete. He does not let his disability define him, and despite all his struggles to compete, he comes to deny his addiction as well.
But while Rex is an inspiration in what he accomplished, from climbing out of homelessness and into the world stage, his story also heeds a warning. It shows the way addiction claws into someone, and no matter how long they are sober, no matter how hard they try, one misstep will send them back into the abyss. Yerxa does an amazing job planting the reader in Rex’s struggles, and through all his missteps and fortunes, there is a message: never give up…and most importantly, keep coming back.
Unfortunately due how and when this book was written, we are left with some holes in Rex’s story. It is impossible to write a biography accurately, even if the person is heavily involved. Yerxa did a fantastic job in telling us Rex’s story though. I don’t think it will be forgotten.
For anyone out there struggling against addiction, self-doubt, or uncertainty, read Rex Patrick’s story. Perhaps you can accomplish something fantastic just the same.
July 7, 2020
I actually won a copy of "Pushing Through" in a book giveaway, after watching an interview with the author. I was excited because the topic of the book grabbed me as soon as I watched the interview and read the synopsis and I certainly wasn't disappointed!
Written like a novel, this is the true story of Rex, a man who suffered from major childhood trauma which led him to a life long struggle with alcohol and drug addiction and a life changing physical disability. The author did an excellent job delving into the impact of such addiction and how recovery itself is a non- ending, lifelong battle.
But this is also the true story about Rex, a ParaOlympian cycling champion who found the strength and perseverance to achieve an amazing goal, raise awareness of the abilities of those with disabilities and help others struggling with addiction.
An inspirational emotional rollercoaster read - I hope more folks read about Rex's journey. It would make a motivational Netflix miniseries!
Written like a novel, this is the true story of Rex, a man who suffered from major childhood trauma which led him to a life long struggle with alcohol and drug addiction and a life changing physical disability. The author did an excellent job delving into the impact of such addiction and how recovery itself is a non- ending, lifelong battle.
But this is also the true story about Rex, a ParaOlympian cycling champion who found the strength and perseverance to achieve an amazing goal, raise awareness of the abilities of those with disabilities and help others struggling with addiction.
An inspirational emotional rollercoaster read - I hope more folks read about Rex's journey. It would make a motivational Netflix miniseries!
October 27, 2020
Disclaimer: I received a free review copy of this book. Receiving this book for free did not influence my opinion of this book.
Rex Patrick is an important part of the history of the Paralympics, competitive bicycling, and disability awareness. The reader wants to cheer him on so that he can conquer his demons and live happily ever after. I’m rating “Pushing Through” 4 out of 5 stars. For anyone who wants to learn about Rex Patick’s life, this is the biography to read, written by a family member.
Rex Patrick is an important part of the history of the Paralympics, competitive bicycling, and disability awareness. The reader wants to cheer him on so that he can conquer his demons and live happily ever after. I’m rating “Pushing Through” 4 out of 5 stars. For anyone who wants to learn about Rex Patick’s life, this is the biography to read, written by a family member.
November 5, 2019
There is no one in recovery, or with someone in their life who is, that can’t achingly relate to this incredible story. Lori does an amazing job of describing the way our thinking can alter our entire life course. I loved the book the way I love my sobriety....”but by the grace of God go I...”.
November 14, 2020
A sister's love & the determination of her brother's human spirit!
Bravo! I was immediately captivated the author's talents and ability to emerse me into this true story and share every emotion with me as if they had been my own!
A truly open, honest, and vulnerable account of a sister's love, hope, faith, and at times, even feelings of helplessness and desperation as she stood by and experienced every obstacle with him as her brother struggled through in recovery. Rex overcame so much with the help of a strong support system. The depth of his struggles highlights how important support is to the success of recovery. The love of cycling gave him a focal point, goals, and a positive distraction from all he went through as a recovering addict. It is so important to have positive outlets to fill the voids left when no longer actively using drugs or alcohol.
This is a powerful and inspirational story of Rex's victory as a clean and sober paralympic athlete over every adversity that rose against him as a "using" addict.
I am so happy Mom (Lori Yerxa) can rest easy now and sink into the joy that fills a family when full recovery is achieved! I cannot imagine the relief she feels today! Amen, God is good!
Great book, Lori, I thank you so much for sharing your story! It should be mandatory reading for families who are just beginning the recovery process!
~ Lisa Jo Symonds
Bravo! I was immediately captivated the author's talents and ability to emerse me into this true story and share every emotion with me as if they had been my own!
A truly open, honest, and vulnerable account of a sister's love, hope, faith, and at times, even feelings of helplessness and desperation as she stood by and experienced every obstacle with him as her brother struggled through in recovery. Rex overcame so much with the help of a strong support system. The depth of his struggles highlights how important support is to the success of recovery. The love of cycling gave him a focal point, goals, and a positive distraction from all he went through as a recovering addict. It is so important to have positive outlets to fill the voids left when no longer actively using drugs or alcohol.
This is a powerful and inspirational story of Rex's victory as a clean and sober paralympic athlete over every adversity that rose against him as a "using" addict.
I am so happy Mom (Lori Yerxa) can rest easy now and sink into the joy that fills a family when full recovery is achieved! I cannot imagine the relief she feels today! Amen, God is good!
Great book, Lori, I thank you so much for sharing your story! It should be mandatory reading for families who are just beginning the recovery process!
~ Lisa Jo Symonds
June 23, 2021
I normally am a slow reader, but I couldn’t put this book down. Lori is such a gifted writer and storyteller; I was able to finish the book in a couple of days. This book is based on the true story of Rex Patrick, who had struggled with a drug addiction for many years, losing one leg in the depth of his addiction, eventually overcoming his issues, and becoming clean. He broke many barriers and became a Paralympic champion, a role model, affording the opportunity to tour the world. His life was a dream and nothing was impossible. It was definitely a fascinating story of hope, resilience, as well as victory. At the end of the book, I felt so sad, but I won’t deprive readers of this rich material. Rex reminded me of my brother and I rooted for him all the way. ‘Pushing Through’ brought me into a space where I was struggling with him through his addiction. I think, we all have or know someone in our lives who have fought or are fighting this battle every day. I am glad that Lori wrote about this in such detail giving insights into Rex’ story and his life. ‘Pushing Through’ was an evocative roller coaster through vivid emotions I thought long dormant.
June 4, 2021
Pushing Through is a testament to how powerful our minds can be and are. Rex came from humble beginnings and spent time in Arkansas, which happens to be where I come from.
I do not know where to begin, but Rex was someone who battled demons from childhood on. From being sexually abused, having a poor relationship with his dad, battling with alcohol and drug addiction, not to mention the accident in which he would lose a lower limb. The struggle was real for Rex, until he found purpose and love.
His peace was found in competitive cycling, and it was no easy journey to say the least. He managed to compete at a high level and travel the world, but what he did not know was how one day he would be cycling, and the next unable to do what he found peace in doing. Along this journey, he found God and that was such a wonderful moment in the book.
However, demons are always lurking and looking to steal, kill, and destroy. All they need is just a little opening to work their way back into your life and mind, and once that happens, they will destroy your life if you’re not mindful.
I do not know where to begin, but Rex was someone who battled demons from childhood on. From being sexually abused, having a poor relationship with his dad, battling with alcohol and drug addiction, not to mention the accident in which he would lose a lower limb. The struggle was real for Rex, until he found purpose and love.
His peace was found in competitive cycling, and it was no easy journey to say the least. He managed to compete at a high level and travel the world, but what he did not know was how one day he would be cycling, and the next unable to do what he found peace in doing. Along this journey, he found God and that was such a wonderful moment in the book.
However, demons are always lurking and looking to steal, kill, and destroy. All they need is just a little opening to work their way back into your life and mind, and once that happens, they will destroy your life if you’re not mindful.
November 18, 2020
This is the first book I read from this author and let me tell you that I loved it! Such a good book with great characters that keeps you obsessed with every page since the first one. The ending of this book.. come on! I just didn´t expect it! Can´t wait to read other books from this great writer! Amazing job! a must-read!. A fantastic book that has it all!
I happily endorse this story to any and all who are looking for an inspirational read and a completely different experience than anyone could imagine on their own. An inspirational emotional rollercoaster read - I hope more folks read about Rex's journey. No matter how far gone you think you are, there's always hope. I highly recommend this awesome book
I happily endorse this story to any and all who are looking for an inspirational read and a completely different experience than anyone could imagine on their own. An inspirational emotional rollercoaster read - I hope more folks read about Rex's journey. No matter how far gone you think you are, there's always hope. I highly recommend this awesome book
November 14, 2020
Oh my gosh, I loved this book! The strength and determination of Rex is so inspirational. No matter how far gone you think you are, there's always hope. You may need people to help you, it's going to be hard but this book shows you that it's worth it. It also reminds me not to give up on other people either.
November 17, 2020
An uplifting account of one man's trials and tribulations with the cards life dealt with him. I found this book inspiring on so many levels; the amount of mental and physical strength involved in surviving all that he endured makes this a must-read!
September 5, 2022
This book touched me to the core. It haunted me and left me thinking about it for days after. Lori Yerxa tells this true story in a raw, and honest way. It fills my heart even to write this review. I highly recommend this poignant and beautiful story of a soul.
October 23, 2020
Every now and then a book comes along that affects you so deeply, you stop in your tracks. Your planned day is filled with preoccupied thoughts about what you just finished reading and you know that on some level, you have been changed and will never be the same again because of it. For me, "Pushing Through" is that book.
Lori Yerxa in her debut novel cleverly takes the reader on the journey of Paralympic Champion, Rex Patrick. We are introduced to the dysfunction of his childhood due to his father's alcoholism and his mother's drug use leaving one to wonder if children who grow up in these households ever really have a chance? As a small child, Rex learns to drown his sorrows, after tasting alcohol for the first time. The alcoholic gene kicks in and he gradually descends into darkness, ultimately losing a leg in an accident. Rex manages to face his own addictions head-on and makes choices that take him to the heights of the Paralympics as a champion cycler. However, it does not end there and I will not give it away.
This book has haunted me all day. It has touched me to the core and everyone who has struggled with addiction or knows someone who struggles or has lost someone to addiction will understand this book. It is so well-written, honest, sincere, and chilling in many places. Yerxa does not preach when she writes. She meets her characters where they are, uses their lingo, and makes the reader feel as if you are hanging out with friends.
Mostly, Pushing Through is a story about the triumph of the human spirit, the baffling and cunning disease of alcohol and drug addiction, helping others, and love. The book is well done and a very important read for those struggling with addiction. I will gladly recommend it to others.
Lori Yerxa in her debut novel cleverly takes the reader on the journey of Paralympic Champion, Rex Patrick. We are introduced to the dysfunction of his childhood due to his father's alcoholism and his mother's drug use leaving one to wonder if children who grow up in these households ever really have a chance? As a small child, Rex learns to drown his sorrows, after tasting alcohol for the first time. The alcoholic gene kicks in and he gradually descends into darkness, ultimately losing a leg in an accident. Rex manages to face his own addictions head-on and makes choices that take him to the heights of the Paralympics as a champion cycler. However, it does not end there and I will not give it away.
This book has haunted me all day. It has touched me to the core and everyone who has struggled with addiction or knows someone who struggles or has lost someone to addiction will understand this book. It is so well-written, honest, sincere, and chilling in many places. Yerxa does not preach when she writes. She meets her characters where they are, uses their lingo, and makes the reader feel as if you are hanging out with friends.
Mostly, Pushing Through is a story about the triumph of the human spirit, the baffling and cunning disease of alcohol and drug addiction, helping others, and love. The book is well done and a very important read for those struggling with addiction. I will gladly recommend it to others.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews