Rubber Band Girl: A Mother’s Memoir

Book Cover
Rubber Band Girl A Mother’s Memoir by Jennifer Nielson is a heartwarming book relating Jennifer’s experience with her daughter Hadley who suffers from Marfan Syndrome.
For those who haven’t heard about the Marfan Syndrome, Jennifer lists it in her book as , a genetic disorder of the connective tissues that results in weak ligaments. Marfan Syndrome is also called the “rubber band disease,” because its most visible symptoms are extreme height, excessively long limbs, and overly stretchable ligaments; but, the disease affects the entire function of the body, impacting the heart, eyes, back, and skin most severely.
It was devastating when her daughter was given that diagnosis. She felt as if her whole world had collapsed upon her as her daughter wouldn’t be able to pursue her dream of being a WNBA player as all physical activity had to be stopped due to her condition.
In the book Jennifer recalls the difficult times which she had gone through with Harley from the time she was born and how with her fighting spirit the both of them have managed to overcome the odds of a carjacking and a death defying car accident among other trying moments that they had during her childhood.
Despite her illness Hadley championed a fundraiser and managed to come up with an astonishing amount of money to support other fellow sufferers of Marfan Syndrome through Hadley’s “Vision”. She and her family also helped support an orphanage through their donation drive.
My thoughts
Harley is one amazing girl with an extremely positive outlook of life. Even with the numerous eye operations, medical and complications due to the syndrome Hadley managed to live almost normal life. She managed to overcome her disability and in the end made it to WNBA. It only shows that dreams do come true if you believe it and work hard for it.
Grab your copy of Rubber Band Girl A Mother’s Memoir from Amazon today.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own. This post has a compensation level of 3. Please visit Dominique’s Disclosure page for more information.
March 17, 2013 @ 5:04 am
Thank you for sharing about the story of Harley. I have never heard of the Rubber Band Disease. I’m glad that there are still people who continue to inspire despite of the difficult situations they have in life.
March 17, 2013 @ 8:48 am
I really like inspirational stories.. This disease is something new to me.
March 17, 2013 @ 2:34 pm
It’s true that regardless of our circumstance, nothing should stop us from reaching for our dreams or goals in life. As long as you really want to it to happen it will if you also work for it. 🙂
March 18, 2013 @ 1:16 am
It seems like an inspiring story to me — a worthy read 🙂 Thanks for sharing 🙂
March 18, 2013 @ 4:22 am
Thanks for sharing & Happy St. Patrick´s Day
March 18, 2013 @ 4:37 am
What an inspirational story! Thank you so much for sharing!!
All the best, Lisa
March 18, 2013 @ 4:44 am
Reading about such people gives us an appreciation for all the good God has given us. It opens our eyes and we realize not to take things for granted. Thanks for sharing this beautiful story!
March 18, 2013 @ 6:09 am
I haven’t ever heard of that disease, but it sounds like an amazing and inspiring story. Thank you for sharing.
March 19, 2013 @ 2:22 am
Great review. Never heard of this diagnosis. So sad but impressive how people can have such strength when faced with adversity.
March 19, 2013 @ 3:12 am
looks like an inspiring story sis. but i always admire people who have such positive outlook in life.