Live the Impossible: How a Wheelchair Has Taken Me Places I Never Dared to Imagine

by Jenny Smith, Joni Eareckson Tada (Foreword)

A gifted athlete.An unthinkable accident.Will a wheelchair crush her adventurous spirit?

Jenny Smith was a typical teenager—a gymnast and athlete who loved hair and makeup, played in a band, and was active in her church youth group. Then one summer morning, a spinal cord injury left her paralyzed from the chest down, dependent on others for her most basic needs.

In this deeply personal memoir, Jenny doesn’t shy away from the physical, emotional, and relational challenges that come with disability. Filled with revelations and sharply observant wit, her uplifting account of resilience serves as an inspirational reminder to us all that adversity can lead to unexpected personal growth.

With honesty and humor, faith and fortitude, she demonstrates how we can all live the impossible, even when life doesn’t go as planned.

Read this encouraging story today.

Genres: Nonfiction

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 11, 2021

Reviews

[Stephanie Norton · Rating 5 out of 5]

God puts things in your path for a reason. I needed to read Jenny Smith's new book "Live the Impossible" because it reminded me that I am not alone and not to give up. I need to trust GOD.

Jenny Smith, a 16-year-old teenager went from being a gymnast and then on a Summer Morning, she found herself with a Spinal Cord injury that left her paralyzed from the neck down.

Throughout the book, there are encouraging messages. She shares her life experience dealing with her spinal cord injury.

I suffer from spine problems myself. I also suffer from many more health conditions such as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy, Lupus, and Celiac. I understand what it feels like to have your life change from an injury. Her book reminded me that I am not alone and I am strong and can keep going. She was determined to stay independent, she had to learn how to live differently than before, but she still became independent. It is nice to hear she had some great doctors that never gave up on her. Those kinds of doctors are very hard to find nowadays. The biggest takeaway I got from Jenny Smith's book is to trust God and know whatever you are going through has a purpose and you are not alone. You are a strong person. Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you have an amazing family or husband/wife/children etc. ask them for help. They love you and what the best for you. I know asking for help is one of the hardest things for me to do. I hate feeling like I am bugging people when I ask for help. Other things I took away from the book are to be confident, set realistic goals, ask God, and don't let your condition stop you from doing things. Jenny didn't let her spine injury stop her. She traveled overseas to help people get wheelchairs and did speeches. She didn't once complain about her situation. I highly recommend reading "Live the Impossible." This would make a wonderful Bible Study book or a women's Christian reading book club. I would love to see Jenny Smith's life story be made into a movie for Hallmark. It is beautifully written.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

Check out more book reviews and giveaways on my blog: https://stephsceliacdisease.blogspot.com

[Jeannine Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Live the Impossible by Jenny Smith is an incredible read. Jenny did a fantastic job of storytelling taking the reader on a journey that illustrated the good, the bad, the ugly, and the impossible that arises when an individual is faced with a trauma that turns their life upside down. Jenny’s book is more than just a memoir. It is an inspiring, motivational self-help book of sorts.

As Jenny recounted her life before the accident, I pictured her as a beautiful, intelligent, athletic, and determined young woman. After the accident, as the story unfolded, I still saw that same determined young woman moving forward despite the obstacles before her. As I kept reading, my perspective did not change. In fact, I gained so much respect for Jenny as she never appeared to let anything stop her. Nothing kept her from doing what she desired to do. To me, this is the inspiring, motivational part. I am not a risk-taker; however, reading how Jenny moved forward despite her spinal cord injury gives me hope that I can do more than just exist in this life. I can live out my dreams too.

Jenny is definitely a gifted writer not afraid to share private details to drive a point home. She was able to share her life story authentically and humorously. I found myself laughing several times while reading some scenarios. I also appreciated how Jenny shared her faith with the reader. There are so many instances I can think of where people reject God after a traumatic event. Jenny certainly is not one of them.

If you are interested in reading a memoir that is also motivational, you will want to check out Live the Impossible. I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

Note: I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated for sharing my thoughts. I am disclosing this per FTC regulations.

[Kendra Neal · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy reading Memoirs, as they are really eye opening to a persons life. I recently had the opportunity to read Live the Impossible: How a Wheelchair has Taken Me Places I Never Dared to Imagine by Jenny Smith.

Jenny Smith was a 16yr old Gymnast and a fun loving Teenager. Her life changed in a instant when on a Summer Morning a Spinal Cord injury left her paralyzed from the neck down. Jenny was now a Quadriplegic. Jenny knew that should would have to lean on others to help her with basic everyday tasks. She didn't want to lose her independence in life, even when her life now included a wheelchair for getting around. Jenny quickly discovered how her Wheelchair was her "ride" to Independence.

WOW, this book is a tear jerker from the very first chapter. I REALLY LOVE how determined Jenny was from the very start of her accident to make sure that her life didn't stop at this point. She understood there were things like Gymnastics and Band that she wouldn't be able to participate in again, but she was determined to live a LIFE! I LOVE how she really leans on her faith in God to help her get through the tasks of life. She has used her wheelchair to be able to "Go Places" and enjoy life. I cried a good cry while reading this book as Jenny is such an inspiration to many. I feel like I have nothing to "whine" about being an able bodied person. Jenny does so much more then many able bodied people. I LOVE how Jenny has taken her accident and become a Spokesperson for those with Disabilities and to speak out on how Independent Living is not out of reach! GREAT BOOK!

[Deana Dick · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a book to encourage you this is a must read. The author shares with us intimate details of her spinal cord injury. I can’t imagine having this happen when you are a teenager. Jenny shares how after the first moments of her injury she didn’t know what to expect. Of course the question we would all ask is “why me? Now Jenny faced a life that she never thought she would have to go through. She had many surgeries and some things embarrassing moments that made her grown stronger and more determined.

I appreciate the author sharing her journey and triumphs. It was nice that she had family to support her and caring doctors that never gave up on her. The book shows us how important it is to trust God and know that he has a plan for each of us. There were moments I did cry as I read the book . It wasn’t because I felt sorry for her, but because she showed me that even when things look impossible, never give up.

There is a lot to learn from this book about paralysis and how we can all do something to help those who have no one to support them. I was amazed how the author traveled overseas to help people get wheelchairs, speak to them with compassion and never once complain about her own situation. In those moments she knew where God was calling her. Jenny shows us how perseverance will achieve dreams and live with confidence as you reach goals others thought were impossible.

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.

[Connie Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favorite types of books to read are memoirs and biographies. I love reading how people have gotten to where they are and what they have over come. My parents always said it was because I was nosy. I always thought it was because I was a people person. Live the Impossible is written by Jenny Smith. This is the first memoir that I have read for the new year. I was completely drawn into the author's story as soon as I started reading. As soon as Jenny realized how badly she was injured, she wanted to pray. I loved that was her first reaction. I don't think that would have been my first reaction.

Jenny relives her life before the accident. She has clearly always been a very determined strong young woman. She is definitely someone that I admire. Her strong faith, her positiveness and willingness to never give up is something that we should all strive to be like. One of the best things about this journey, is the fact that she was NOT going to allow it to stop her. She was determined to live her life to the fullest. She has clearly been doing a great job doing this.

The book is written well, it is real, raw, written with humor. I found myself laughing a lot through the book. The author is someone that I could see myself sitting down sharing a meal with and having a good time. She writes like you are old friends. This book is about being positive, keeping the faith DESPITE the situation you are in.

I received a copy of this book through the Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

The subtitle of this book is what drew my attention How a Wheelchair Has Taken Me Places I Never Dared to Imagine. As a person with a chronic illness, using a wheelchair is something I have to do once in a while. I was interested to learn more about how someone who was reliant on a wheelchair handled their life.
Jenny Smith has a very personable writing style. While reading the book, I felt like a friend was telling me her story. Her personal story and achievements can be an encouragement to anyone living with a disability. We may not be able to achieve all that Jenny has achieved, but we can let her inspire us to Live the Impossible.
She talks about things and feelings that you don’t often see in memoir books and some things you do, She discusses how she learned to deal with bodily functions, learning to ask for help (and how much it improved her quality of life when she did), relationships with the opposite sex, learning to accept the person she has become, and more.
Live the Impossible would be a great addition to a K-12 Christian school library. However, there are a couple topics that may not be appropriate for younger readers (disability and sexuality for one) so I would probably label Live the Impossible as a high school only book. I would highly recommend Live the Impossible to anyone who has suffered spinal cord injury or has a friend/family member who has.
I received a complimentary copy of Live the Impossible. This is my honest review.

[Steven R. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must Read Inspirational Tear Jerker

This was such an eye-opening book that not only caused me to cry both tears of sorrow and tears of joy, but it made me reflect on my own life too. To read Jenny tell of her struggles and her victories, and along the way to see that she never lost sight of her relationship with God was truly inspiring.

There are so many good reasons to read this book. If you’re like me, you’ll better understand the challenges a quad or others in a wheelchair face, and your eyes will be opened to the unfortunate circumstances some in this world face without access to wheelchairs or good medical care. Just as important though, you’ll learn through Jenny that your limitations are more of a mindset than a reality, and whatever you face in life, God can work through you, and He can use you to show His love to the world.

I highly recommend this book. Just buy it. Read it. Keep a tissue box close. You’ll be blessed because of it, and you’ll be glad you did.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jenny's is an amazing story. The book is well written and very encouraging and informative. Jenny is very honest in her account too. She shares about the changes in her friendships because they had been based on mutual activities. There was the agony of prayers for healing. She shares how she navigated school, endured muscle spasms, must be watchful of skin conditions, had tendon transfers and more. She even shares some of those details we often wonder about concerning bodily functions.

This is a great book of inspiration for anyone with a disability and even for those without a disability. Jenny's account shows what can be done with perseverance and trust in God. I am amazed at the ministry Jenny has accomplished and the activities she has experienced. Her life is truly an inspiration to all of us.

Food for thought: “You never know what you might find as you stretch beyond the familiar and into the impossible.” (2468/2894)

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to be honest, this was a difficult book for me to read. Not because it wasn’t well written, but because parts of it hit a bit close to home. I have two older brothers, twins, who suffer from Cerebral Palsy. So, while they’re not paralyzed like the author they do have physical disabilities and struggles.

For my brothers, they have not had a lot of the same opportunities as the author of this book. But the one thing that I do think is a common denominator is attitude. None of them has an attitude of defeat!

This was a really well written and good read that I do highly recommend to all. I think this book would make a great addition to shelves in church libraries, school libraries, and free libraries across the country.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

[Irene Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to live life in a wheelchair? Jenny Smith openly shares not only her struggles with adjusting to her new reality after an accident at age 16 but also the ways God used this tragic accident to give her hope and joy. Jenny talks honestly and openly about catheters and surgery, about pain and disappointment. And she gives us a glimpse into the ups and downs of her journey which has drawn her closer to God and sent to her to impossible places.

I laughed and I cried. I could hardly put this book down. This book is not just for people who know someone with a spinal cord injury. It’s for anyone who could use a little hope in the midst of the difficult circumstances of life. I highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Emma Filbrun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book very inspiring. It actually reminds me of a friend, who in the mid-1980s, as the father of 8 children, was in an accident and paralyzed from the waist down. One time I heard someone commiserating with him about his handicap, and I'll never forget his response. He said, “It was the best thing that ever happened to me!” I'm not sure Jenny Smith would quite say that, but she did say that she wouldn't change what had happened to her. She has gone more places than most people ever dream of, and played more sports than most of us ever try—from her wheelchair! I really appreciated her attitudes of hope and optimism, and her focus on counting her blessings. I also learned a lot about life with disabilities!
I received a review copy of this book from CelebrateLit, and these are my honest thoughts about it.

[Kelly-Ann ~ Sassy Bookish Mama · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although non-fiction is not my preferred genre I must say that this was a very well written book. Jenny is a gifted writer and she opened herself up and showed her vulnerability throughout the pages of this book. She shared her life prior to her accident and after. One thing that I admired about her throughout the book was that despite her accident her gumption to being determined never wavered. She didn't let her circumstances stop her from the things that she wanted to accomplish. This book is truly inspiring and motivational. If you are looking for a story to truly inspire you then this is the one you should grab.

I received a copy of this book through the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought I knew how inspiring Jenny is from following her blog, but this book shows that only know a small part of what she has been through and accomplished. In Live the Impossible, Jenny tells not only of how she came to be a wheelchair user and the struggles she has encountered but shares all the amazing places she's been able to go and things she's been able to do since then. She truly shows how through Christ we can do all things.
I'm grateful to have received a copy of her book for my honest review. Jenny's strength of faith and determination of will has inspired me to live the impossible from my wheelchair as well.

[Cheri Swalwell · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an inspiring book by Jenny Smith. I love how raw she is about the events in her life and how they changed her … for the better. I picked up this book as my daughter was trying to decide whether to go into occupational therapy or physical therapy and this book, unknowingly, helped her make that decision. The descriptions of her limitations after the accident, her feelings and her accomplishments were amazing and so real. Jenny definitely has lived life without letting her injury stand in her way!

I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit but was not under any obligation to write a review. All opinions are strictly mine.

[Eric Estes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenny's story is inspiring and encouraging. I especially appreciate how she talks about her injury and disabilities with matter of fact honesty. The reader will walk away with a little more understanding of what wheelchair bound and disabled person's lives are like. She also shares the life lessons she has learned with clarity and supports them with examples from her experiences. She shares how her faith is essential to her life without being preachy or overwhelming the other content of her story. Jenny's love of God and others, her joy and zeal for life, and finally her gratitude are inspiring. This was an encouraging book.

[Ashley Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful memoir full of good stories that I think all people should read. The author does a great job sharing the stories and being relatable. Such an inspiration. I think this story could encourage anyone that would truly open their hearts and read it.

Jenny was an athlete and then paralyzed. The emotional rollercoaster. The pain, the determination, the complete inspiration. I absolutely loved this book and it will be shared with many.

5/5

Thank you to the author/publisher for the review copy of this book via Celebrate Lit. I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.

[Maleah Weiss · Rating 5 out of 5]

At 16, Jenny was forced beyond all that was comfortable and familiar when an accident caused a spinal cord injury. Her new book Live the Impossible is an honest, witty invitation into her journey of daily life, faith, and adventure with an SCI. When presented with opportunities to go beyond her comfort zone she consistently says yes and challenges her readers to do the same. You’ll be amazed at where those yeses have taken her!

*I received a free copy of Live the Impossible in exchange for an honest review.

[Donna Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely incredible read!!

I’ve known Jenny for several years but didn’t know her “story” - wow! Jenny is an incredible motivator - on many levels. Her story inspires me to be better, do more, take some risks, be grateful, LIVE! Her reliance on her faith through the hardest times is the real story. I couldn’t put the book down. Her writing is pure, realistic, and filled with good humor. I have an abundance amount of respect for Jenny and love her even more than before! What a story - and it isn’t fully written yet!

[Patti Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes, the hardest things in life provide the greatest opportunities for growth. This autobiographical look at Jennie Smith’s gymnastics injury at 16 that leads to her becoming a quadriplegic touched my heart. Jennie faced this terrible experience with courage.

She shows the hardships and challenges those in wheelchairs face. At the same time, she sets out to provide assistance to others in wheelchairs. This book truly moved me. So check out this book for yourself.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, but this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own

[Kate Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Looking for encouragement, motivation or a book about overcoming? Living the Impossible is the book for you! Jenny Smith came to our book club, Honey in Rock, it will be a club meeting we will remember for a long time. She shared her journey her story, her resilience and power of perseverance. This book is Jenny’s heartfelt memoir, giving us her vulnerability and her humor. Beautifully written. Highly recommend.

[Mikalah Krauss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book will surely give hope to those who feel what they are going through is impossible. It will captivate you with its raw honesty, humility and life experiences that we can all learn from. With each page turn we are shown how a teenage girl, handicapped by the impossible, transforms into a young woman LIVING for the impossible.

[Debbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

"Live the Impossible" by Jenny Smith is a good book by the author explaining her life after a accident that left her paralyzed. The author shares her struggles as well as her victories. This books shows that disabilities does not have to limit your possibilities.
I was given a complimentary copy from the author and Celebrate Lit and these opinions are my own.

[Lisa Ingersoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

It feels cliché to say “this book changed my life” but that’s the best way I can describe the impact of this book. I may never know what it’s like to experience paralysis but now I know a bit more about the daily life, thoughts, and emotions that come with this challenge. I want to move forward with more attentiveness, advocacy, and humility.

[Michelle Bazeley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cannot recommend this book enough. It is excellent!

Full disclosure- I know the author, so I was ready to enjoy her memoir. But I was blown away- her life has really been an adventure, including her journey in living life with a wheelchair

[Karl Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unexpected

I didn't expect this to be a page turner, but I was wrong. I expected to be able to put this aside to read other books if I wanted, yet I realized I needed to finish it first.

[Andreas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learned A Lot - Plus Smiles And Tears

I don't recall any other book that put a smile on my face while still having tears in my eyes from a previous page. The most important lesson I learned from this book is to count every single blessing , no matter how small it is. Jenny has an amazing life!

[Kathryn Spurgeon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome

It was easy to relate to the main character and feel her feelings and see her growth, especially as she reaches out to serve the handicapped in Afghanistan.

[Christi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This spoke volumes to me. I have MS and am wheelchair bound. It gave me great encouragment. I want to thank the author.

[Hailey Hudson · Rating 4 out of 5]

“My story isn’t one of miraculous healing. I still use a wheelchair after more than 30 years. And *that* is the miracle.”
—
“An easier life doesn’t mean a better life.”

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found Live the Impossible: How a Wheelchair has Taken Me Places I Never Dared to Imagine to be powerful read. Jenny Smith is such a courageous, determined and inspirational woman. I loved how she was able to continue to live instead of allowing her disability define who she is. I admire her strength. This book made me laugh and cry and made my heart full. I loved it.

I am giving Live the Impossible: How a Wheelchair has Taken Me Places I Never Dared to Imagine a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading about moving people and how they were able to overcome tragic events.

I received a digital copy of Live the Impossible: How a Wheelchair has Taken Me Places I Never Dared to Imagine from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.