Unthinkable [Paperback]

Scott Rigsby (Author), Jenna Glatzer (Contributor)

Book Description

Publication Date: September 3, 2009

After losing both of his legs in a car accident at age 18, Scott Rigsby battled his way back from depression and addiction to achieve the unthinkable—become the first double-leg amputee ever to cross the finish line in the sporting world’s most grueling and prestigious competition, the Ironman Triathlon. Scott has since become an inspiration to hundreds of thousands of physically challenged and able-bodied athletes the world over. Unthinkable documents Scott’s remarkable journey. From the scene of the devastating crash that claimed both of his legs, and his subsequent battle with depression and alcohol addiction, through his dawning realization that God has a greater plan for his life, readers will be inspired. From his decision to participate in the Ironman competition, to the moment he crossed the finish line, readers will engage with Scott’s unthinkable courage, determination and faith. Unthinkable releases simultaneously in both hardcover and softcover. A portion of the proceeds will go to the Scott Rigsby Foundation, a Georgia-based non-profit organization dedicated to inspire, inform, and enable physically challenged individuals with loss of limb or mobility to live an active lifestyle.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Scott Rigsby is the founder of the Scott Rigsby Foundation, a Georgia-based, nonprofit organization that exists to inspire and enable physically challenged individuals and athletes. In 2008, he was named World Vision’s Advocate for Children with Disabilities. Scott lives in Atlanta, Georgia.

 

Jenna Glatzer is the author of eighteen books, including Celine Dion: For Keeps, Bullyproof Your Child for Life, with Joel Haber, and The Marilyn Monroe Treasures. She has written hundreds of articles for magazines such as Woman’s World, Prevention, Women’s Health & Fitness, Contemporary Bride, and Physical. She’s also a contributing editor for Writer’s Digest.

--This text refers to the Audio CD edition.

From AudioFile

Losing his legs after a 1986 crash was devastating for Scott Rigsby, but the loss also led to one of his greatest accomplishments: running on prosthetic legs in the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon. Jon Gauger doesn't sound like Rigsby--an author interview proves that--but he makes an engaging narrator as he tells Rigsby's story in two parts: his descent into a troubled life and, set on a new path by God, his preparations for the Ironman. Gauger lets Rigsby's frankness, wry humor, and eventual upbeat view of his experiences come through. Even listeners who will never run a triathlon will find inspiration in Rigsby's story. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine --This text refers to the Audio CD edition.

Product Details

• Paperback: 288 pages
• Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. (September 3, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1414333153
• ISBN-13: 978-1414333151
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.7 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.4 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (72 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,214,523 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Tampa Lisa, January 1, 2010

By 

Tampa Lisa (Florida) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Unthinkable (Paperback)

While racing I had a 3-second encounter with an athlete (that turned out to be Scott). That moment not only affected the Ironman journey I was on, but also had an effect on the spirit of my work and play. Reading UnThinkable has acted as a great reminder of that moment. The book is a "quick read", as others have posted, mainly because it feels as if Scott is sitting in the room telling you his story. I appreciate his candor and his willingness to tell even the not-so-pretty aspects of his life (that I could often recognize and relate to!). He's quick to point out that by the grace of God we can rally and continue on, truly running the race that has been presented to us. A must read for the new year!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing; Incredible; Inspirational, October 25, 2011

By 

William Pinches "PC(USA) Pastor" (Mason, MI USA) - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Unthinkable (Paperback)

I first heard of Scott Rigsby a few weeks ago when I was watching Kona Ironman coverage online. I was very surprised to discover a double amputee competing. I googled his name and discovered bits and pieces of an incredible story. Then I ordered the book, and have just completed one of the most amazing, incredible, inspirational books I have ever read.

I am a pastor. I am also a bit of an athlete. Scott's story blew me away. With a tremendous amount of brutal honesty, Scott tells the world how anything is possible. There were dark years in his life, years that hammered and forged him into the person he is now. I laughed - a lot. I cried - a lot. The story of Scott's first swim effort with the high school swim coach left me in stitches; the final chapter left me in tears.

This is a phenomenal story of how one person overcame tremendous physical limitations, but perhaps more significantly, mental limitations. This is a remarkable story of how one person found a renewed purpose and calling in life - not to mention a real, vital, living relationship with God - and who can now look back on the accident that left him maimed for life and actually say that he's glad it happened. Wow.

This is a book worth reading. This is a book worth sharing. This is a story worth telling. Again, and again, and again, and again.

Thank you, Scott Rigsby, for telling the world your story. We're better people, because of people like you.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Motivational and Real, September 6, 2011

By 

April F - See all my reviews

This review is from: Unthinkable (Paperback)

I am not an athelete, but saw Scott speak and so decided to read the book. I was immediately captivated by how it feels like you are having a conversation with Scott. I loved that Scott was so real and authentic both in the struggles and challenges he faced.

I was also surprised by how healing ths book was for me, I have a father with MS and the descriptions of Brain Injury combined with Physical Challenges is very interesting. I would recommend this book to anyone, athelete or not, who wants to read an inspiring book! As you turn the pages you realize that many of Scotts challenges weren't physical - and we can all relate to that story. I have already given my book to a friend and gotten another for a friend.