Yes, You Can, Heather: The Story of Heather Whitestone, Miss America 1995

by Daphne Gray, Gregg Lewis

This is the inspiring story of Miss America, Heather Whitestone, a courageous young woman who refused to be swayed by formidable odds--and of a mother who made agonizing choices and incredible sacrifices to enable her deaf daughter to achieve her dream.

Genres: Biography, Biography Memoir

242 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1995

Reviews

[John Yelverton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very inspiring story about the first handicapped Miss America.

[Maybama02 Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read these in middle school. Being a young girl from Alabama, growing up we were fascinated with her! Everyone read these books!

[Félise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think the overall tone is not unexpected from Zondervan publishing, but even if it edges into being a lil' message-y here and there, the story is an amazing testament to human resiliency and provides interesting insight into educational systems, deaf community, and the pageant process. Heather is an inspiring figure who reminds me why true stories are the best!

[Wendell Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Met the author at a book signing in Alabama and it was co-authored by my friend Gregg Lewis! Although I did not agree with her decisions of her daughter’s education, her product speaks for itself. She became the first Miss America who was also Deaf, so kudos to you Ms. Gray!

[Patricia]

For someone who was born with a moderate hearing loss such as myself, this book was extremely inspirational. I felt like I was right there with Heather and her mom riding the emotional roller coaster. I think her shear determination and hard work outweighed her set backs and disappointments. I remember the night Heather Whitestone was crowned! I was blown away and totally amazed!!! I will never forget that moment. I saw her on The Celebrity Apprentice not so long ago and again I was amazed at her ease of communication. I just learned that she has four sons and lives on St. Simon's Island. I am so happy to find that she has lived such a wonderful life!

[Steph · Rating 3 out of 5]

"The audiologist has found nothing new, but she did have one unexpected recommendation. Because Heather's best hearing sensitivity and speech perception came through her left earned she preferred listening through that ear to listening with both, the CID audiologist recommended the use of amplification in her left ear only."

"I think the two girls became such good friends because Misha's continuing efforts to learn sign proved her commitment to their friendship. And in another way it affirmed and symbolized to Heather Misha's complete acceptance of her -- handicap and all."

[Angela Dahle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book about perseverance, hard work, believing in oneself, having high aspirations/goals, and great accomplishment.It is a reminder that even if your goals scare you or freak you out because they are so lofty, you can still reach them. It is proof that a handicap is not a brick wall that keeps us from reaching our goals or a happy life.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather Whitestone-McCallum is my favorite Miss America, and I admire how she overcame the adversity and challenges that came with her disability. This story is told through the eyes of her mother, and I admire her dedication to her daughter, helping her to reach her full potential and be the best she can be, therefore, refusing to let her daughter's deafness define her.

[Prophetess Cassandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is indeed a very wonderful book, I have touch by her courage and inner beauty. It shall be an encouragement to all women who desire to succeed in life..... no just $$$ and status, but really succeed in being a real woman.

[Kristy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the amazing true story of a young girl who became Miss America despite unbelievable challenges, due to her faith and help from her mother.