Smorgasbord Book Promotions – #Memoir – Before, Afdre, and After (My stroke … oh what fun) by Maureen Twomey

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Delighted to welcome a new author to Smorgasbord, Maureen Twomey with her memoir Before, Afdre, and After (My stroke … oh what fun)

About the book

When Maureen Twomey was only thirty-three years old, she experienced a massive stroke—one that took away her ability to read, write, walk, and even speak (AAAAAAAHHH!!). Well, she wasn’t about to go down without a fight. In Before, Afdre, and After, Twomey offers a sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes comical, and ultimately inspiring account of what it is to lose everything when you’re supposed to be in the prime of your life—and what it takes to get it back, piece by tiny piece.

One of the reviews for the book

Stephanie 5.0 out of 5 stars Thank you for sharing, Maureen!  Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸

Interestingly, this book kept reminding me of the “look for the helpers” quote by Mr. Rogers. Maureen’s experience was incredible, her treatments fascinating, her perseverance commendable, and her much-better-than-expected recovery worthy of much celebration. I was most affected, however, by the amazing level of support she received from friends and family. Maureen’s strong work ethic and determination were obvious, but I often found myself thinking, “What do stroke victims (and other folks with TBI’s) do when they don’t have someone to _________ (fill in the blank with everything from helping her get to the hospital to moving her out of her apartment, to caring for her cat, to taking her in and caring for her after rehab, etc.).

When I began reading this book, I was excited to get some insight on the perspective of someone completely aware, but “locked” in his or her mind by such an injury. I definitely got that, but a bonus was developing a better understanding for the incredible need of a supportive network for these individuals…oh, and really good health insurance coverage – that’s another thing that’s REALLY helpful to have when an unexpected tragedy strikes! Aside from all of that, I thoroughly enjoyed Maureen’s sense of humor (that I’m sure also played a huge role in her recovery) and the pictures and various other “snapshots” of her recovery. All together, it was an attention-grabbing, comprehensive, touching recounting of an incredible journey. Thank you for sharing, Maureen! 🙂 

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

About Maureen Twomey

(Memoir) Before the stroke, Maureen Twomey graduated from UCLA in 1990, she went on to work for several advertising agencies. Then at the age of 33, she had a major stroke (Aaaaaaah!). Well thankfully, her sense of humor is still intact … so she tells her story with honesty, sometimes moving, sometimes funny, and ultimately inspiring story.

2016 Finalist in Memoir, IAN Book of the Year Awards, Independent Author Network (IAN)

2016 Finalist in Non-Fiction Inspirational, Readers’ Favorite Book Awards

2016 Best Cover Design Non-Fiction, Next Generation Indie Book Awards

Maureen Twomey now lives in San Francisco, where she volunteers for Peer Visitor, Stroke Survivors Starting Over.

Connect to Maureen: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Maureen: Goodreads – Website/Blog: Maureen Twomey WordPress – Facebook: Maureen Twomey 7 – Twitter: @Maureen_2me

 

Thank you for dropping in today and it would be great if you could share the news about Maureen’s book… Sally

59 thoughts on “Smorgasbord Book Promotions – #Memoir – Before, Afdre, and After (My stroke … oh what fun) by Maureen Twomey”

  1. This is a topic close to my heart. While writing Someone Close to Home, I did a lot of research on the effects and treatments of stroke. Whilst thirty-three is an unusually young and cruel age to be hit with the devastating consequences of a stroke, it’s great to hear of the support that Maureen received and of her own indomitable spirit that has seen her fight back and be able to write this account and find the humour amongst the fear and despondency of her situation. I’ll definitely be buying this book! xx

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  7. I remember thinking the first time I ever saw this book, “what a brave woman!” I still think that. I am thrilled to see Maureen’s book featured here today and what a glowing review!

    Liked by 3 people

  8. Wow!
    What an inspiring journey this must be.
    A stroke is one of those scary conditions to experience, glad Maureen had humour and determination to fight through it.
    33 is definitely way too young

    Liked by 3 people

  11. This sounds like a great read, Sally. The blurb captured my attention, but I was definitely moved by the review and the insights of the reader. Huge congrats to Maureen. It’s a delight to see her book on the Smorgasbord shelves. ❤

    Liked by 3 people

  19. Thank you, Sally, for highlighting Maureen’s book and Maureen, many congratulations on your book. I have just bought my copy. Xx 💓

    Liked by 2 people

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