Not Fade Away

Not Fade Away is Rebecca Alexander's memoir of living with Usher syndrome type III, a rare genetic disorder causing progressive vision and hearing loss. She shares her experiences from childhood through her thirties as she navigates life with diminishing senses. Through her work as a psychotherapist and spin instructor, Alexander demonstrates her determination to build a full life despite physical limitations. The narrative follows her relationships with family and friends, her education and career choices, and her strategies for adapting to change. The book recounts specific challenges of maintaining independence in New York City while managing both hearing and vision impairment. Alexander details her use of adaptive technologies and support systems, including guide dogs and hearing aids. This memoir explores themes of resilience and identity, examining how physical disabilities shape but need not define a person's life path. The author's perspective offers insights about finding purpose and meaning while facing uncertainty.

Readers praise Alexander's honesty and resilience in describing her journey with Usher Syndrome. Many note her matter-of-fact approach and lack of self-pity when detailing her gradual loss of sight and hearing. What readers liked: - Raw, authentic writing style - Balance of humor with serious moments - Practical insights into living with disabilities - Strong family relationship descriptions What readers disliked: - Some chapters feel repetitive - A few readers wanted more details about daily adaptations - Timeline jumps can be confusing Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (1,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (300+ ratings) Sample reader comments: "Shows how to face challenges without sugarcoating the hard parts" - Goodreads reviewer "Her perspective on gratitude despite difficulties resonated deeply" - Amazon reviewer "Would have liked more about how she manages work and relationships" - Goodreads reviewer

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📖 Rebecca Alexander began losing both her sight and hearing at age 12 due to a rare genetic disorder called Usher Syndrome Type III 🎓 While coping with progressive vision and hearing loss, she earned three degrees and became a psychotherapist with a thriving practice in New York City 💪 The author maintained an active fitness routine, including spinning classes and intense workouts, even as her vision deteriorated to just 10% of normal 🦮 The book's title "Not Fade Away" references both her condition and a Grateful Dead song, which holds special meaning as music became increasingly difficult for her to hear 🌟 Alexander has been featured on The Today Show, Morning Joe, and in The New York Times, using her platform to advocate for the deafblind community