Some nonfiction will capture your attention and heart from the very first word until the very last. Hope Heals: A True Story of Overwhelming Loss and Overcoming Love by Katherine and Jay Wolf is definitely one you will not want to put down.
While her six-month-old son was sleeping in the next room, 26-year-old Katherine screamed for her husband and collapsed to the ground from a massive brain aneurysm.
She was rushed into micro-brain surgery where the neurosurgeon told her husband,“I need you to know that there is a good chance she will not survive.”
This gripping memoir takes you into the excruciating accounts of both Katherine and Jay as they struggle to survive her seemingly insurmountable recovery after she survived the removal of part of her brain.
She spends 40 days on life support in the ICU and 2 years in full-time brain rehab.
From pursuing a hopeful modeling career one day to waking up with half of her face paralyzed and being unable to talk, walk, eat or fully hear and see…you will be inspired by this couple’s amazing faith and love for others.
My mother-in-law died from a brain aneurysm in her sleep 5 years ago, while my seven-year-old was spending the night alone with her. A few years later, we received a call that one of our friends collapsed from a brain aneurysm. The suffering our friends have gone through has been the deepest I’ve ever known.
Reading this book felt like walking through the painful moments our friends must have experienced and are still reeling from today.
I felt Jay’s sorrow as he wept beside his sleeping wife whose life was connected to tubes and machines as he read the book of Job to her.
I grieved with Katherine when she realized the extent of her injuries, her inability to communicate, pick up her own child and eat food.
I felt the shock when a doctor revealed the MRI results only two years after her initial stroke, that Katherine had another aneurysm behind her left eye that required surgery.
And yet despite their continuing hardships, I felt the hope they held onto as their faith in the Lord never wavered.
Now nearly 9 years later, they continue to spread the message that hope heals.
I loved the photographs included in the book showing Katherine’s recovery and progress. I especially loved the last photograph that showed a picture of their new baby, John.
Just like the anchor symbol-strewn throughout each chapter, this book solidifies the truth that having hope in the Lord through suffering is an anchor to the soul.
Having hope in the Lord through suffering is an anchor to the soul.#HopeHeals Share on X
I highly recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review through the Booklook Bloggers program.
I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Hello there! I'm Valerie, a mom of four and wife of 27 years. My writing inspires others to cultivate courageous faith and find solace in trusting God, especially in moments of fear and uncertainty. Join me on this adventure as we explore the beauty of trusting God when we are afraid. 
Puts things in perspective doesn’t it. A story just from your review is a story that everyone should read. Especially to see the faith in this couple. Thanks for sharing this Valerie at Book Wino.
Yes, it sure does put life in perspective! Thank you for commenting!
I have seen this book pop up recently and it sounds so inspirational!
I’ve been wanting to read this — I’ve followed the Wolfs’ blog for a couple of years now and have been so moved by their story. Thanks for your review.
Wow. Right to the heart. I cannot imagine. What a testimony to hope their story must be! Goodness, Valerie, another book you are convincing me to buy!!! Yikes, girl!!
♥
Valerie,
I read a devotional about this couple a few weeks ago. As a stroke survivor myself I was intrigued and inspired by their story of faith. Sounds their book made an impression on you based on your 5 stars! I know from experience that god allows pan and suffering to accomplish His purpose. I have no doubt they will bless, inspire, and, encourage so many with their story. Thanks for sharing Valerie! Have wonderful weekend and may God bless you and yours!
Thank you so much for taking the time to visit Horace! I’m glad you liked the review. It’s a great read!
Second excellent review I’ve heard of this book, Valerie. Thanks so much; I’m adding it to my summer reading list!
Yes, I’m pretty sure every review I’ve read has been 5 stars!
What a powerful story! I can’t imagine how deeply it touched you considering your personal connection to people who have experienced similar health crisis. I love this: “having hope in the Lord through suffering is an anchor to the soul.”
Yes, it was a great book!