HSU Alum, Jan Eastland, Chronicles Life with Cerebral Palsy in New Book

January 8, 2018 Tim Wagner

Born with cerebral palsy, Jan’s persevering spirit has served her well through the challenges of her life. She graduated from HSU in 1978 after 17 years of hard work and study, and she has maintained a close relationship with HSU through the years.

Assorted Nuts records her interesting life experiences and many of the individuals whose life path has crossed hers. Jan recounts her own life journey and pays tribute to the many West Texas residents she met along the way. Each had something new to teach her about positivity and perseverance. These “assorted nuts” gave her support, advice, comfort, and laughter during her most difficult challenges. Though Jan has demonstrated amazing dedication while living with cerebral palsy, she acknowledges that she certainly couldn’t have done it all on her own.

Jan’s strong desire is that the book will encourage parents of children with handicaps. She challenges parents to discover what their children are able to do and to encourage them to do their best.

Jan mastered the ability to know when to ignore the word “no.” When she was discouraged from enrolling in high school because of her cerebral palsy, Eastland did so anyway. She embraced life’s challenges and didn’t let her condition define her. Eastland learned how to live with her limitations and overcome many of the obstacles created by them, and her book encourages everyone to work hard to overcome their own barriers. Her work illustrates that with a positive attitude and a strong support system, people with disabilities can lead full, rich lives.

A campus book-signing reception is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 12, at 3 p.m. in Moody Center, Room 108.

Assorted Nuts will be available at the reception for $20. Books are also available in the HSU Bookstore and on Amazon.com. Books may also be ordered directly from HSU by sending a check for $23, which includes mailing expense. Checks should be made payable to Hardin-Simmons University, HSU Box 14064, Abilene, TX 79698. Please write “Attention: Eastland Book” on the envelope.

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