Forged Through Fire Review

Description:
When Mark McDonough was a teen, a catastrophic fire claimed the lives of his mother and younger brother. It also left Mark with burns on over 65 percent of his body. During a long and painful recovery, his faltering faith in God was strengthened by a remarkable near-death experience. Inspired to pursue a career as a plastic surgeon to help those who suffer as he has, McDonough has overcome numerous other adversities on his journey, including addiction and a stroke. Now he shares his incredible true story of survival and perseverance to bring hope and healing to those dealing with great physical and emotional pain.

Anyone who has suffered or watched a loved one suffer from a personal trauma, disease, or loss that has tested or stolen their faith and exhausted their emotional resources will find real hope in this redemptive story.
Review:
I don't know what I expected going into this story but the emotional rollercoaster took me by surprise. I made it through a few chapters without much emotional response but was surprised when one scene after another brought tears to my eyes. I enjoyed the layout of the book, how the author jumped back and forth between past and present with each chapter. I was also surprised to hear he battled a disease that beside's son now battles and it gave me hope. I also found hope in the fact that I could on some level relate to the author and his mental, emotional and spiritual struggles through time of great suffering. I too suffer from chronic illness and depression and anxiety. I'm thankful for the honor of being able to read this story and pray it gives hope to others as it has me.