September is National Suicide Prevention month, so for my inaugural White Dog Blog book report, I’d like to spotlight The Ultimate Comeback by Erik Kramer with William Croyle.
The Ultimate Comeback is one of the most well-written and inspiring books I’ve ever had the privilege to edit. Let me share a little bit about the book and Erik Kramer:
Erik Kramer was a record-setting quarterback for the Chicago Bears in the mid-1990s and the Detroit Lions during the Barry Sanders era, leading the Lions to a playoff victory for the first time in thirty-four years, a feat that would remain intact for more than three decades. Yet, despite his success on the gridiron, he struggled with depression as well as “Imposter Syndrome”—the nagging feeling that nothing you do is ever good enough. The whole story—from Erik making it to the NFL in the most unconventional way to surviving and thriving following a self-inflicted gunshot wound—is incredibly riveting and can only be described as miraculous.
The raw emotions Erik was feeling and experiencing are palpable while reading The Ultimate Comeback. With its open and honest rendering of this time in Erik’s life, the story connects with readers in a deep and profound way. For me, the following passage from Chapter 2 particularly hit close to home:
“I grew up with anxiety, fear of failure, and little confidence. I was afraid of not being good enough at anything. If there was one positive from that, it was the strong work ethic I developed in my quest to always be better. But it wasn’t the healthiest way to parent a shy kid simply looking for acceptance from his mom and dad.”
That describes me to a T. It wasn’t until I was in my forties that I was able to deal with those issues and stop them from controlling my life. I’m sure they’ll always be there, bubbling just beneath the surface, but I’ve found healthy ways to manage them and keep them at bay.
The Ultimate Comeback is a must-read for anyone who has struggled following the loss of a loved one, has dealt with Imposter Syndrome, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or knows someone who has. I wholeheartedly believe Erik’s story has the power to save lives, and I applaud him for having the courage to share it.
Read an excerpt from The Ultimate Comeback in this article from the Detroit Free Press:
The Ultimate Comeback is available to buy on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
Learn more about Erik and The Ultimate Comeback here:
The Jim Rome Podcast | Episode 296 | Erik Kramer
Follow Erik here:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ErikKramer12.QB/
Twitter/X: @EKPass
Instagram: @erikkramer12
If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts, don’t be ashamed to ask for help. The National Alliance of Mental Health helpline is available M–F 10 a.m.–10 p.m. EST by calling 800-950-6264 or texting helpline to 62640. In a crisis, call or text 988, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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