I Came – I Stayed

When the doctor discovered the serious nature of their baby’s illness, he strongly suggested that Arlene Sollis’ parents leave her in the state hospital and continue on with their lives. Having already lost one child, they refused to leave without their new daughter. They were determined to do everything they could for her, no matter how much effort might be involved. Indeed, her parents and grandmother provided her with round-the-clock care and love as well as regular trips to the doctor to check in on her development and other physical needs. As she grew older, Sollis was never sheltered from disappointments, though, and by so doing, her parents allowed her fierce independence to flourish.

As a young child with cerebral palsy at the time, she soon faced the problem of where to receive an education. Beginning with her parents, private lessons, and then a state hospital school, Sollis learned quickly but also enjoyed free time with friends. Through her later education, she grew intellectually and showed a particular enjoyment for home education. However, her education didn’t end with her high school graduation. After receiving her first teaching position in a nursery school run by a local cerebral palsy organization, Sollis began studying occupational therapy and teaching disabled children on a college level. This pursuit of knowledge would continue throughout her life; as she dedicated herself to contributing to the lives of both physically and mentally disabled people.

Through her work, she used what she had learned to educate others as well as working to change the laws and perceptions of those with disabilities. Receiving multiple commendations for her efforts, she in fact changed the lives of so many during her working years. Whether it was a small child who gained improved dexterity through her lessons, or a city that made changes to secure everyone’s safety, Sollis showed a great love for others along with a resolve to never be discounted. Even with the serious nature of some obstacles she faced, she always retained an optimism and fun-loving nature that most others could only aspire to.

In her recently released autobiography, “I Came – I Stayed: The True Story of My Life with Cerebral Palsy”, Arlene Sollis records the events and lessons learned from her remarkable life. Her book is very personal and candid in nature; she honestly reveals her struggles even as she discusses her many triumphs. Her writing is often passionate and detailed, giving readers an insight into her life and the events she witnessed. This is much more than an autobiography. Due to her work, the changes in education she helped to effect, as well as her community actions, Sollis’ book is a valuable contribution to the historical understanding of American history from the Great Depression up through the present day.

Although Sollis’ book will likely appeal most to those interested in the history of education and legislation in America, it would benefit anyone who would like greater insight into the life of someone who faced great obstacles but was determined to create change in her life and in the lives of those around her. Through her writing, Sollis takes the reader through important cultural and historical events with an engaging style not found in other books of similar genre. This book would be a valuable addition to any school library, medical library or within a home having challenged individuals.