Shirley Brosius

Members of our Neighborhood Book Talk group experienced emotions ranging from sadness to anger while reading The Butcher’s Daughter. And all were inspired by Sandra Lesher Stuban’s courage and tenacity in the face of a debilitating illness. Stuban grew up in our local area of Pennsylvania but went on to achieve success and recognition as a nurse and a military officer. Soon after becoming a mother at age 38, she was sidelined with a devastating medical diagnosis—amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease). Rather than succumb, Stuban explored ways to remain independent.

Her story is an inspiration for anyone facing a major life challenge. On its pages, you read of Stuban’s vigorous fight to survive the subtle invasion of her body so that she might watch her son grow up. She offers practical advice for parents (focus on what you can do, not on what you can’t) in similar situations. At the ends of chapters, she shares lessons about attitude, available assistance and the medical world that she’s learned as she progressed from initial stumbles to complete paralysis. We found her suggestions practical and realistic.

Rather than being defined by her illness, Stuban strives to function as her own advocate, as a mother to her child and as a contributing member of society. Now completely paralyzed except for the muscles of her cheek, with which she controls her computer, she refuses to give up or give in. While her initial diagnosis predicted a life span of two or three years, she has survived 14 and is still counting. Our book club applauded the gigantic effort it must have taken Stuban to write this book because her honesty and humility will make a difference in the lives of many. The book includes lists of ALS resources and recommended readings.