Book Review: My Own Ways Through This Life

My Own Ways Through This Life. Christopher Viau. Kindle Direct Publishing, March 8, 2020, Trade Paperback and E-book, 55 pages.

Reviewed by Julie S.Halpern.

Chris Viau is a nature enthusiast, poet, avid Cubs fan, artist, and archivist. He also has Cerebral Palsy, a condition which challenges but does not define him, as he eloquently shares his unique take on life. He has difficulty walking, speaking, and eating, and he depends on the help of aides to live the full life he has created for himself. His resiliency and determination to survive and thrive despite numerous setbacks will inspire anyone who has been abused or ignored by an unfair system. 

His condition was caused when he stopped breathing for fifteen minutes during birth. His early years were frustrating due to schools that were ill-equipped to handle his needs. 

His physical limitations were often seen as mental deficiencies, and he was sometimes referred to as “retarded.” Unable to receive physical and occupational therapy early on, he began to fall behind in his studies. Fortunately, Chris found outlets in camping, writing poetry, and creating visual art. He remains a loyal Cubs fan who appreciates the great view he has from the accessible seats at Wrigley Field, twenty rows from the field. His religious faith is strong, and he is grateful to his Pastor and to a teacher who helped sustain him through periods of depression. 

Chris’s early years in high school were enjoyable, but his studies began to deteriorate, causing him to remain in high school until he was 21. As advances in technology became available, Chris was better able to communicate and is grateful for the assisting devices he uses to help make life easier. Even with advanced devices, when he was finally able to attend college, he found some of the coursework difficult and was disappointed by the lack of teamwork among his fellow students.

When Chris realized it was time to leave his family’s home, he was confronted by a new set of challenges as he struggled to find the right group home. The state-run system did not serve his needs, and he was subjected to physical and emotional abuse, which caused him to spiral into despair. Ultimately, he was committed to a mental institution, where he was misdiagnosed and incorrectly medicated, and again abused and threatened.

After surviving these experiences, he finally found A Place Called Over the Rainbow, an apartment for disabled individuals. He now receives the services he needs to live an independent life. His home, located in a beautiful community near a nature preserve, suits him perfectly. He also has found his dream job as an archivist at Arts of Life, where he utilizes his computer and visual art skills. He has been a Special Olympian in baseball, playing left field, and works on the USA Youth Committee. 

Samples of Chris’s poetry appear at the end of the book. Each piece is a sensitive, thought-provoking window into his world.