Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers.
Few disabilities are more terrifying to imagine than the loss of one's sight. How fascinating, then, to read Lisa Fittipaldi's thoughtful memoir, in which she describes how blindness not only led her to a new career as an international artist but also enabled her to become a better friend, a more committed wife, and a happier person.
Lisa was 47 when, on her way to work one morning, the world suddenly went black. In gripping detail, she re-creates the frightening scene -- miraculously driving her car off the crowded highway, then waiting until her vision slowly returned. Numerous doctors' appointments and medical tests later, she received a grim diagnosis: She was suffering from Churg-Strauss Vasculitis, a disorder that would soon leave her permanently blind and hearing impaired.
A long period of denial followed -- during which she nearly set her house on fire -- and an even longer period of depression. But her husband's gift of a child's paint set opened a door that Lisa would never have otherwise "seen," as she discovered her ability to paint realistic images relying on her memory and her other senses, which grew more acute with each passing day. Today, Lisa Fittipaldi is a successful, world renowned international artist and lecturer and heads a foundation that helps vision- and hearing-impaired children. A memorable journey into self help and the world of creativity. (Spring 2005 Selection)
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