AuthorsDen: Reviews at a Glance

Recent Reviews for Stuart Ross McCallum

Beyond my Control - Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond (Book) - 8/15/2009 7:39:58 AM
In his autobiography, Beyond My Control, Stuart Ross McCallum reveals his life by placing it out in the open for the world to view. The good. the bad, and the experiences that he has no recollection of due to his seizures are written in a manner that draws the reader into his world. That world was often frightening, not only to himself, but to those closest to him. Those same people would relay the often violent details of the episodes to him after each seizure had passed, yet they remained loyally by his side. With a family and staff that loved and supported him, he was able to maintain a lucrative business in spite of the physical discomfort, and hardships he endured. This reader found the book captivating inasmuch as it was enlightening, yet written on a level that wasn't geared exclusively toward the medical community. That gave it a much more personal touch, making it very relatable to people that have observed others with physical, or medical conditions that are not easily controlled. Clearly, Mr. McCallum is not the type of person to sit back and feel sorry for himself. He aggressively sought medical attention to attempt to control a condition which for many years appeared to be out of the realm of possibility. This survivor spirit ultimately led to making the decision of a lifetime, in spite of not so promising odds. By candidly sharing his experiences, along with giving tribute to those instrumental in his survival and recovery from delicate brain surgery, Stuart Ross McCallum has endeared himself to this reader. His thoughtfulness to others, his love of family and friends, his consideration to customers, and staff illustrates that in the end, instead of seizures controlling him, he seized control. I highly recommend the book Beyond My Control by Stuart Ross McCallum.

Beyond my Control - Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond (Book) - 5/5/2009 10:04:29 PM
Mate I am looking forward to reviewing your book, but I can already see that I am in for a great experience, fantastic reviews mate & well deserved. To quote that famous line "I'll be back" Your Aussie mate Dave.

Beyond my Control - Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond (Book) - 5/5/2009 2:36:59 PM
I originally purchased “Beyond My Control,” by Stuart “Ross” McCallum, thinking it would be a casual, yet interesting read. However, once I started reading the first chapter, I literally could not put it down until I had finished the book. Although the book is a biographical, and at times harrowing tale, of Ross’ struggles to find normalcy within an anomalous world of coping with epilepsy...the story flows with the feeling of a well-organized novel, rather than a dry, retelling of factual events. Upon finishing his story, the realization that Ross survived his life-struggling ordeal (and lived to write about his experiences in an intellectual, often humorous manner)…is a miracle in itself. His story is more than an account of how Ross and his family, friends, and co-workers dealt with his epileptic episodes; it is also a fascinating look into the often misunderstood side-effects of the illness. Ross’ story is filled with heartache and hilarity; written in an educational and entertaining manner. “Beyond My Control” is a must-read, not just for the informative aspects of coping with a disabling illness, but more importantly for the pure “reading enjoyment” of his story.

Beyond my Control - Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond (Book) - 1/10/2009 11:07:13 AM
"Beyond My Control" describes the harrowing journey that you and your loved ones have been living far too long! The amazing way that the author used humor and downright "in your face" honesty in dealing with this horrendous experience...well, it's miraculous, uplifting, and filled with hope for those who are living similarly. This book assisted me in a better understanding of a disease that I was not familiar with; nor did I want to be! Fear of someone with Epilepsy was my original instinct, and shame hits me now; that Fear of the Unknown can turn us into almost uncaring humans. What a torture this must have been for Stuart, as well as his beloved wife and loved ones. Thankfully, the surgery has been successful; and thankfully...this book will be an enlightenment to others such as myself...who are ignorant to better understanding of the unknown. I hope that this book becomes available to many who are like me..so that we too can be better prepared to assist and not hide from those who suffer with this illness. Be proud Stuart, because unveiling this personal story does truly show the strength you had to travel this journey from darkness into the light! You have used your story to heal and to bring hope, where others have chosen to remain in pain and darkness! I will treasure you as a friend and inspiration. Linda Law

Beyond my Control - Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond (Book) - 8/25/2008 3:33:01 PM
I just purchased your book! You have been so supportive to me and I have a throat disease and know what it's like to deal with illness that is beyond your control. Stuart you are my champion!

Beyond my Control - Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond (Book) - 8/22/2008 5:43:05 AM
Stuart: This is so real. A lot of people has this disease. I'm glad you have taken steps to have it under control. A book with true lie experience is a gem! Sandie May Angel :o)

Beyond my Control - Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Beyond (Book) - 8/9/2008 5:44:45 PM
Wow! What a heart wrenching story....Your title was a magnificent choice...I have found in my own healing process, that one of the things that has helped me most is that there are so many others out there with life's struggles and hurdles....so many more life threatining than my own...I love to read, respond and actively help others..in doing so I am healing....Thank you for your story...God bless you and your family Sophia

Hallucinations - A True Story (Short Story) - 9/9/2009 12:56:43 AM
Stuart, you certainly have some strange memories to look back on. I think it is great that you can share them with your Internet friends. I'm glad you recovered as well as you did, and hope you are now enjoying a really good life. Your friend, Carole

TEMPORAL LOBE EPILEPSY and the PARANORMAL (Short Story) - 9/5/2009 11:16:01 PM
Thank you for sharing another aspect of TLE. Your ability to write in a style that opens up your world to others is astounding. Your North Melbourne buddy, Kathy

Hallucinations - A True Story (Short Story) - 9/1/2009 3:41:14 PM
reading this excerpt brought me back to the first time I read your heart rending story. I felt my heart pounding even though I knew the out come. You have a knack for drawing the reader into your world to share the experience. Your North Melbourne friend, Kathy

Hallucinations - A True Story (Short Story) - 8/30/2009 2:00:25 AM
well done

Hallucinations - A True Story (Short Story) - 8/29/2009 3:13:50 AM
Your stories should be published in all medical magazines. Thank You for sharing this precious informative and emotional story. My respect and gratitude, Andre Emmanuel Bendavi ben-YEHU

TEMPORAL LOBE EPILEPSY and the PARANORMAL (Short Story) - 4/11/2009 7:27:56 AM
You have me intrigued Stuart. Would love to chat to you about this some time.. Ty and Take care, Ch'erie

A Wonderful Story about a Book (Short Story) - 1/30/2009 8:10:53 AM
I would like very much to ask both you and Carol if I can use this story as well...it is what I call an Extraordinary Visit...what my books are all about...and I can certainly see where this story can be an awesome, inspiring one that can assist another to read the books (yours and Carol's and many others from writers on AD) that come from true life experiences. Your book, and Carol's "It's OK Eli" are told in such down to earth, simple yet uplifting ways that they are exactly what those who can't begin to understand that their pain can be taken to another, less emotionally draining level if they are better informed. I love this story that Carol shared...it is what we as decent human beings are supposed to do....yet many don't! You and Carol are blessings in my life and I am so thankful that I read the books that each of you have written...I wish others would invest in them as well! For themselves...as a gift.... hugs, lindalaw

A Wonderful Story about a Book (Short Story) - 1/30/2009 6:31:37 AM
Stuart, I know I sent these words to you....and you asked if you could share them and I agreed. I just wanted to let you know how much power there are in books and words. I knew after reading your true story, this book would help many. I was blessed to see and feel that healing power when I encountered that very young, scared girl. I am positive she will gain strength to battle, just as you did. Thank you Stuart-- as your book allowed me a blessing! CarolHawks

TEMPORAL LOBE EPILEPSY and the PARANORMAL (Short Story) - 1/28/2009 6:56:00 AM
Years past, TLE in persons was mis-diagnosed as "mental illness" Your tremendous courage in your story will help so many understand they have options...and to battle the disorder! Thank you for continuing to educate those with and without this thing that is..Beyond their control! CarolHawks

Anorexia Nervosa - Control over your body & mind (Article) - 8/26/2009 3:01:32 PM
G'day mate, it is amazing really how one affliction can trigger another at the same time, loved your book mate & a good friend is reading it now. Dave.

Beyond my Control - Prologue (Article) - 5/28/2009 8:06:55 PM
I enjoy all of your work! "Beyond My Control" should be within all of our reach. Just stopping by to see your latest, bro.

BEYOND my CONTROL - One Man's Struggle with Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Bey (Article) - 1/29/2009 5:45:19 PM
Truly a story for all. Educational, personal and well written. The best part....a love story within the book of Stuarts lovely wife Lisa, and her battle to save him. I have read this book twice, and within his struggles, he manages some humor. I recommend this to any person in need of an adjustment in their lives concerning their own struggles. He truly battled..and WON!

BEYOND my CONTROL - One Man's Struggle with Epilepsy, Seizure Surgery & Bey (Article) - 1/29/2009 9:11:46 AM
I read this book, and I can tell anyone first hand...it is a book that you don't want to put down. If you do or do not know anything about this illness, the reader will be awakened (in private) to answers that they never would have posed in public. It brought me understanding and also enlightened me to the pain and suffering that you and your loved ones endure, and how love can strengthen you through that journey. I hope others will read this book..it is an education for sure; yet it is a story of love, romance, finances, family, and mystery.... you are a hero... hugs, lindalaw

Beyond my Control - Prologue (Article) - 11/14/2008 4:26:10 AM
You took the chance, your desperation and pride gave you strength, and you won! God returned you to your family and your book is a tribute to healing. You infused humor in your story and that tells of your attitudes in life-even while suffering. Many will benefit from your story and gain the possible strength needed to help themselves. I just hope they too have a wonderful feisty lady such as your Lisa to help them. Got a photo of you in your gown? LOL! CarolHawks

Beyond my Control - Prologue (Article) - 11/12/2008 7:42:06 PM
Stuart, thank goodness you took this journey and have come through to have a more rewarding life...You have touched the hand of God, and He knew you were still needed here...to share your story with others...to encourage and inspire. lindalaw

Beyond my Control - Prologue (Article) - 11/12/2008 7:01:49 PM
I, for one am so glad you took that brave & now lasting step, otherwise I would not be communicating this wonderful writer I now class as a friend. Well done on your achievments mate. Dave.

Searching For a Diagnosis..... (Article) - 11/3/2008 1:27:18 PM
This is one small chapter of your wonderful book. Sounds normal-give a depressed patient tons of medications. Just what they need, easy access to overdose with. Blame everything unexplainable on---Depression! What a wonderful book of your battles, I will read it again. CarolHawks

Searching For a Diagnosis..... (Article) - 11/2/2008 7:15:36 PM
well done

Everyone needs Help & Reassurance sometimes in their lives (Article) - 10/31/2008 11:28:00 AM
As always you are so thoughtful. I really appreciate your info and know that others do too.. Thank you, lindalaw

Everyone needs Help & Reassurance sometimes in their lives (Article) - 10/31/2008 4:24:17 AM
Thank you Stuart for the link. You are always thinking of others!

Rovella Starr By Carol Denise Mitchell (Article) - 10/14/2008 2:48:46 AM
well done

Don't hide from Depression - Help is Close (Article) - 8/8/2008 7:54:18 AM
You are write, depression needs help. And meds can help. And you need your family, not withdrawing from them. Your wife was absolutely right to get you to get help. Some take too long and suffer unnecessarily. I am sure you realize this. Noone should be ashamed of depression, and help is available when needed. Some don't realize that help is needed and struggle on. We got help and are feeling better for it. And our families live better lives with us. My hubby Tom, the 2nd one died and now I struggle with grief and depression can come daily, but the grief is more overpowering right now with me than depression. I try to keep busy, but was told by my doctor to take all the time to grieve as you want and don't let anyone tell you differently. Each has their own time. You did not go through this, it is so hard for me still a year after. I just cannot seem to let him go.

Depression Strikes A Merciless Blow (Poetry) - 10/27/2009 7:05:03 PM
Ross, You hang in there. I will always support your unique cause! Your loving sister, Carol Denise

Beyond my Control - A Seizure is Close - (IT) (Poetry) - 10/20/2009 12:46:02 PM
Thanks for the insight into your disorder. Never heard it described in the first person before. Scary. Maybe you could get one of those trained seizure sniffing dogs to give you some warning, but I'm guessing you've probably considered every conceivable option already. Patrick

Beyond my Control - A Seizure is Close - (IT) (Poetry) - 9/6/2009 10:28:07 AM
Stuart, I, too, have seizure disorders, and understand those feelings all too well. When I first started writing, out of sheer frustration, I wrote "The Attack", it's no where near as good as yours but I think we're saying the same thing, and no one will ever understand that hasn't gone through it. This sent chills down my spine and tears from memory. God Bless You. A friend, Mary

Denial - Refusing to face the unpleasant truth (Poetry) - 8/29/2009 9:27:17 PM
Here's hoping your struggle is behind you. Patrick

Stop, Stop, Stop, Your time is not up (Poetry) - 8/25/2009 3:05:42 AM
I liked this one in particular: Stop,Stop,Stop Your Time is Not Up, probably because I am old fashioned enough to like poetry that ryhmes. Truly, thought Stuart, I cannot imagine what it must have been like to live in your shoes. I am so glad they put you right. May you have many more healthy years to make up for the times you missed.

Beyond my Control - A Seizure is Close - (IT) (Poetry) - 7/1/2009 1:14:11 AM
your words pour freely from your head, heart and hand. well done my friend down under. Hugs, Kathy

Beyond my Control - A Seizure is Close - (IT) (Poetry) - 5/9/2009 8:24:51 PM
Thank you for sharing this poem. A friend of mine always tells me about her daughter-in-law's seizures. She had surgery for a brain tumor. This poem gives me insight on how the daughter-in-law must feel. I'm saddened by the idea of you feeling as though you need to apologize. Keep strong:) Hugs, Sheila

Pride & Depression----A Lethal Cocktail (Poetry) - 5/8/2009 9:01:30 AM
Heartfelt poem! You have described depression very eloquently.

Depression Strikes A Merciless Blow (Poetry) - 5/8/2009 9:00:08 AM
Very nicely penned. I have written quite a lot of poetry on this subject. My thirty-six year old daughter has suffered with depression for too many years now, and I felt every word of your poem. It's not just the one depressed who suffers from this terrible affliction. Good job.

Stop, Stop, Stop, Your time is not up (Poetry) - 4/20/2009 3:01:22 AM
Stuart, this poem about depression is eye opening not only for the writer, but for the reader. Hopefully it inspires one to search for purpose and meaning to go on. I know it did for me. Your friend, Kathy

When we are Hurting inside--emotional pain (Poetry) - 4/13/2009 3:23:33 AM
Hello Stuart. Nice to see you here, I know you from Goodreads. Your poem hits the nail on the head as I am a sufferer of depressive anxiety disorder. I could so relate to your words. Your friend, Kathy

Please forgive me..... (Poetry) - 3/21/2009 7:30:42 AM
Wow, Stuart Ross McCallum. Where have you been writing at around here? I have missed your powerful verses somehow. This one strikes right between the eyes to those of who lived to regret the day, we ever thought the grass was greener on the other side. Excellent strong voice in your message. Photo is earnest looking and fits the words you wrote well. Hope to hear more from you.

Please Don't Be A Closed Book (Poetry) - 3/4/2009 5:50:39 AM
Amen!

Please forgive me..... (Poetry) - 2/28/2009 4:50:56 AM
I liked the poem Stuart! What would life be like if we couldn't forgive. Randy

When we are Hurting inside--emotional pain (Poetry) - 2/8/2009 5:00:43 PM
We sometimes wear that "mask" to cover-up our true emotions when we are hurting so deeply, and, sadly, a lot of people never reach out for help when they are most desperate. I think that is why it is important for us (humanity) to be kind to one another as we never know what the other person is enduring or how they are struggling. Hope ... without it, there is nothing. Very emotive piece, Stuart. My heart and prayers are with you all in Australia today. ~Elizabeth

Depression Strikes A Merciless Blow (Poetry) - 1/25/2009 2:18:05 PM
Outstanding message in a wise poetic task performed. I salute You, Poet. In respect, Andre Emmanuel Bendavi ben-YEHU

When we are Hurting inside--emotional pain (Poetry) - 1/25/2009 2:11:05 PM
Sublime message to inspire and guide... A poetic ambrosia. In admiration, Andre Emmanuel Bendavi ben-YEHU

Please Don't Be A Closed Book (Poetry) - 1/25/2009 2:00:30 PM
Wise ponderings and message. Keep Your pen busy. In respect, Andre Emmanuel Bendavi ben-YEHU

Beyond my Control - A Seizure is Close - (IT) (Poetry) - 1/24/2009 4:13:55 AM
A clear depicting of an epileptic seizure through this outstanding composition, "Beyond my Control - A Seizure is Close - (IT)". I salute You, Poet. In respect, Andre Emmanuel Bendavi ben-YEHU

Beyond my Control - A Seizure is Close - (IT) (Poetry) - 12/29/2008 2:44:28 PM
Dear Friend, We all have Seizures in our lives. Seizures just like those beyond your control inflict us all. A seizure could be not being able to pay your bills; or domestic or child abuse. You are not alone in your grief and your pain. Others who care about you are right there with you. Hang in there Stuart. The world would be under seizure without you!

Beyond my Control - A Seizure is Close - (IT) (Poetry) - 12/12/2008 10:19:22 AM
Hello Stuart, Yes, thanks for this offering - well done!! Best regards, Lance