Hi all, this last title caught my eye some months ago as it had the words ‘travel’ and ‘diabetes’ in the description. I felt myself drawn to it as diabetes runs in my own family and as a result I find myself thinking twice about the things I eat and my lifestyle. Although I have my own raft of health issues; they become quite insignificant compared to the trials faced by the author of this book. So, if you or someone you know is facing a serious illness, have a read of this memoir if you need some inspiration.
Title: The Insulin Express: one backpack, five continents, and the diabetes diagnosis that changed everything
Author: Oren Liebermann
Genre: Biography
Publication details: Skyhorse Publishing; NY, 2017
ISBN: 9781510718487
What this book is about: In the middle of a year-long backpacking trip around the world with his wife, Oren Liebermann is teaching English to young Buddhist monks in Pokhara, Nepal, when his body begins to fail him. At a local clinic, a doctor gave him a diagnosis that will change his life forever: “I’m sorry to tell you, my friend, that you are a diabetic.” Devastated, Liebermann is trapped in a freezing hospital room, trying to recover enough to fly home. Although their friends and family urge the couple to call off the rest of the trip; Oren and Cassie, make a decision. They have an adventure to finish, and he has the rest of his life to live. Bold, raw, and poignantly candid, The Insulin Express tells the story of what happens when the best-made travel plans are subject to the ever-present chaos of life, and how a major setback can turn into the opportunity of a lifetime. Despite struggling with a chronic disease that almost kills him in the Himalayas, Liebermann hikes along the Great Wall of China, conquers the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and sips cobra whiskey in Laos. What begins as a travel chronicle across thirty countries transforms into a single journey of resilience and self-discovery.
My review: An amazing and inspirational story of celebration of life!! Oren Liebermann is a true survivor and has fully embraced his life to its fullest. This honest travelogue not only details his journey around the world, but also his acceptance of his life-changing diagnosis. Where some would have gone home and accepted a mundane life, Oren chose to continue travelling and living a fulfilled life!! Packed with some hilarious accounts and poignant moments, this book reads more like a memoir. I really enjoyed his writing and found myself laughing in most places despite the seriousness of his condition. A truly inspiring read for me!! Some very helpful information at the back as well.
My rating: 5 ⭐
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