
She wanted to die. God had other plans.
Overwhelmed by wave after wave of emotional trauma, Kristen Anderson no longer wanted to live. One January night, determined to end her pain once and for all, the seventeen-year-old lay across train tracks not far from her home and waited to die.
Instead of peace, she found herself immersed in a whole new nightmare.
Before the engineer could bring the train to a stop, thirty-three freight cars passed over her at fifty-five miles per hour. After the train stopped and Kristen realized she was still alive, she looked around—and saw her legs ten feet away.
Surviving her suicide attempt but losing her legs launched Kristen into an even deeper battle with depression and suicidal thoughts, as well as unrelenting physical pain—all from the seat of a wheelchair. But in the midst of her darkest days, Kristen discovered the way to real life and a purpose for living.
For anyone struggling to find the strength to go on, the message of this heart-wrenching yet hope-building book is a clear and extraordinary reminder that even when we give up on life, God doesn’t give up on us.
Includes notes of encouragement from Kristen and resources for suicide prevention.
“Life, In Spite of Me" saved me. Reading it is the best thing I have ever done in my life.”
– Laura
"This book brought me through some of the darkest moments of my life."
– Kelly
One of the best inspirational stories I've ever read. I had had trouble pulling myself away from this book. Myself, a childhood cancer survivor and later leg amputee, can relate to some of the situations and feelings the author experienced. This is a great book for teens and adults alike. Anyone who needs a spiritual pick me up needs to read this book. Truly amazing story!
– Emily
"I have Kristen’s book and read it a lot. Kristen’s story has helped me greatly and saved my life. Thank you so much, Kristen."
– Jacquelyn
"I’ve read this book and I totally recommend this book to anyone who either knows of someone struggling or struggling yourself. Excellent!"
– Mary
"I am twenty-five years old. When I was eighteen, I started to feel that I am not good enough for anything. I felt like no one loved me or cared for me, and I was the unluckiest girl in this world. Each day I wished to be dead and not see the next day. I read Kristen's book and I am so touched by it. I want you to know that you are changing lives not only in your nation, but you are changing lives around the world."
– Melkit
"Kristen’s story helped give me strength after my wanting to commit suicide. Thank you for sharing your story. I am grateful that you survived to be with us! You’re a blessing."
– Christy
"Kristen will probably never know how many llives were saved because she had the courage to share her story. "
– Lisa
"Kristen will probably never know how many llives were saved because she had the courage to share her story. "
– Lisa
“Thanks Kristen. I'm always amazed how God can take our mess and make a message. Thank you for your courage to share. I know that your book and story is reaching many. We serve a powerful God. He always is amazing.”
– Phil
I often don't finish reading a book, but this book is heartfelt, honest, inspirational. Kristen did a wonderful job of telling her story and giving her personal testimony in a way that was deep, yet easy to read and understand her struggles and victories. I highly recommend this book to anyone who needs to be reminded of how valuable they are to God.
– Aurora
One of the best Christian books I've ever read! It moved me deeply. If you want a really good read, and you want to see the Hand of God at work, this book is a MUST for you. Highly recommend it.
– David
One of the best Christian books I've ever read! It moved me deeply. If you want a really good read, and you want to see the Hand of God at work, this book is a MUST for you. Highly recommend it.
– David
