Someone Like Me: An Unlikely Story of Challenge and Triumph over Cerebral Palsy

As a child, John Quinn had a dream of a naval career despite his affliction with cerebral palsy. After failing the physical exam, he underwent painful, self applied physical therapy for one year then successfully passed a second exam. He kept his cerebral palsy a secret from the record-keepers and medical authorities for 20 years. He had a distinguished and highly decorated career despite the pain he endured to appear normal. He served on board destroyers, a battleship, two aircraft carriers and functioned as an administrator for a SEAL unit.

The outside world also impacted on him further aggravating his CP when he was challenged by alcoholism and excessive grief caused by the suicide of a brother. With help, John Quinn triumphed over both, as he did the painful cerebral palsy.

Kudos for Someone Like Me:

“Someone Like Me will serve as an inspiration to a lot of people, not only those with CP, but just ordinary folks who want to read about someone who overcame adversity and succeeded in a most amazing way.”
General Richard (Butch) Neal, Assistant Commandant
United States Marine Corps, Retired

“Mighty Quinn” …well, that’s what we called him…and still do…and I don’t believe Bob Dylan would mind… His story is uncommonly unique and unquestionably inspirational, leaving readers no choice but to confirm that he is indeed…Mighty Quinn.”
Chris F. Jewett, Captain, United States Navy, Retired

“This book is a must for every physician, therapist, and other caregiver that treats individuals with cerebral palsy or any other disability. It also is a must for every young person who ever looked at a goal and thought it was just out of reach. Perhaps he or she should look again.”
Edward A. Hurvitz, M.D. Associate Professor
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
University of Michigan