Headway launch new book ‘Walk Our Paths’

HEADWAY, a not for profit that helps people with acquired brain injuries, launched their new book ‘Walk Our Paths’ which includes an inspirational story from a Clondalkin man who suffered a brain injury after having a stroke.

The launch of the new book took place at Pinocchio Restaurant in Ranelagh on the evening of Tuesday, March 15. The evening was introduced by Sara Sabbioni from Headway, as well as some of the survivors who read some of their pieces and poems of their journeys.

In attendance at the launch was Derek Cummins from Clondalkin, who wrote the introduction to the book.

Derek previously told The Echo that he had to “re-learn the alphabet” following a stroke at aged 42, and hopes that his story, along with the others in the book, will inspire others and show that there is positivity and hope after a brain injury.

Derek couldn’t communicate, speak, or write after suffering a stroke, but began to rebuild his life after joining a choir at Headway, which helped with his speech.

In the book’s introduction, Derek writes: “So this book tells their true tale, people like us, survivors. Their pain, their struggle, their hopefulness, feeling that they have become the unwanted, dropped onto the rubble skip of life. But some, they said ‘No. I will not fall down. I will not just disappear.’

“Bridges can be rebuilt; new routes can find a way; new things can be created from nothing. These barriers and barricades can be broken down; they are not fully used, they can evolve and even little apples can blossom and search for a kinder, better future.”

The book is €10 and all proceeds go directly to Headway’s services and supports. Headway’s website is HERE.

You can purchase your own copy for €10 plus €4 postage or if you prefer you can also have a free copy online through Headway’s website.