Afflicted (Press, 14 July 1962)
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Summary: Afflicted (Press, 14 July 1962)
"Born Like That" by Denise Legrix, published by Souvenir Press, tells the powerful story of Denise, born in a Norman peasant family in 1930, weighing just four pounds and without arms or legs. From a young age, she demonstrated an indomitable spirit, determined to overcome her adversities. Despite her family's extreme poverty and inability to support her, Denise learned to feed herself, move, and ultimately became skilled in sewing and painting. To expand her market for her handmade crafts, she participated in a sideshow, only to find herself exploited and mistreated by the proprietor and his wife. This unsettling experience exemplified the brutal realities she faced. After managing to escape this ordeal, Denise began anew but encountered significant challenges, including cruelty from others. Nevertheless, she found solace and camaraderie with other disabled individuals, even as charitable institutions often focused on her commercial potential rather than her personal struggles. With her parents ageing and in need of support, Denise took it upon herself to care for them. However, she faced further misfortune when the house she purchased for them was destroyed in WWII bombing. Additional hardships arose as she managed the complexities of employing a personal maid, encountering further apathy and unkindness. The narrative, as captured by the author, is devoid of self-pity and presents a raw depiction of her arduous journey. Denise ultimately channeled her suffering into her art, attaining a degree of success and stability. The overarching message of the book is a testament to resilience and the human spirit, with the author urging readers to confront the realities of her life rather than offering a fairy tale. While the book may not be enjoyable for everyone, its powerful account serves as an important read for those willing to understand the struggles faced by severely handicapped individuals.
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