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Robert Hale was born with a mystery disorder. A stick-skinny boy with digestion problems and night blindness, doctors didn't know what was wrong. When the tremors began, Robert enrolled in clinical research at Oregon Health & Science University. It was a year of medical mysteries solved, nurse crushes, and first experiences. With a name for his disorder, abetalipoproteinemia, and treatment that curbed some of its neurological characteristics, Robert set out to find his destiny. But he had no idea what lay ahead. As his vision faded, employment and fatherhood brought challenge and heartbreak. Using a cane, then a walker, and finally a wheelchair in a world built for people who walk and see, Robert's trials were great. But his determination to find happiness was greater. From a year of interviews with medical anthropologist Raina Croff, PhD, Robert's story of hope beyond hardship shines through his appreciation, determination, and positive attitude.

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9781937303822

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Robert Hale was born with a rare genetic disorder, abetalipoproteinemia. He's gone from active, bike-riding kid to active adult who is legally blind and in a wheelchair. Robert's participation in clinical research at Oregon Health & Science University in the 1970's gave doctors some of the earliest information about his disorder and its treatment. Robert continues to blaze trails with his disability sensitivity trainings on serving customers with special needs, and as a member of California's Shasta Regional Transportation Agency Advisory Council where he advocates for improved public transportation for people with disabilities so they can be active, engaged citizens wherever they need to be. Raina Croff, PhD is a medical anthropologist and writer. Her work focuses on brain health interventions for older adults that blend life storytelling, neighborhood history, and walking to promote healthier aging and public discussion about community, healthcare, and the aging experience. She is Assistant Professor of Neurology at Oregon Health & Science University's Layton Aging and Alzheimer's Disease Center in Portland, and a graduate of Yale University.

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