Jim Scott's book conveys not only a strong message about drinking and driving but an honest, heartfelt, and detailed account of addiction, brain injury, and depression. As an outgoing, charming youngster, he was able to mask his depression and self medicate with alcohol. He even fooled his caring and involved parents. His book should encourage open discussion of the role of drinking and depression in adolescents as well as the impact of dealing with a brain injury. As a clinical psychologist working in schools, I would highly recommend this book to all families.

This story of addiction and how it can impact a person and their family, is one that Jim did not have to share with the world, but has in the hopes of reaching just one person who might hear it and make a different choice than they would have otherwise. Jim is a natural storyteller and his candid recollection of both his brother's accident as well as his own reminds the reader that sometimes, even after we see the impact drug and alcohol abuse can have first hand, we need our own crisis for change. As someone who works with teens every day, I know that some may have to make their own mistakes before they find the motivation to get help or make changes, but I also know that more of them can be positively influenced with stories like Jim's just as easily as they may be negatively influenced by other factors. I do think this book can be the thing that makes some young people think twice. And for that, I am very grateful that Jim chose to share his story.

How many of you, out there, would be envious of the life Jim started with? How many of you, out there, understand the life Jim has now? How many of you, yeah you out there, can face the changes with the some heart that Jim puts out each & every moment of his day? Yes, I am biased. I know Jim in person. I served in Desert Storm, served in the Air Cavalry attached to the 101st Airborne. I've worked for the D.O.D. and for Electronic Arts. I have met men of honor, men of distinction. men of integrity. Large men whose accomplishments will crowd a room until standing space only. However, Jim is so powerful a presence, so distinct a person that he fills any room to overflowing. In fact, because of him one section of my cup overflows.

Mr. Scotts book is a fresh honest look at an issue that many people have experienced in one way or another, Drinking & driving and brain injury! This book is a great book for anyone that is touched by an honest true life story talking about a tough subject. Honest, True and Uplifting! A must read.

Jim Scott and John Rackley are two of the VIP speakers in the ThinkFirst for Teens program. Jim suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result of a ‘drunk driving’ car accident, while John sustained a spinal cord injury from a trampoline accident. Jim, John and the other guest speakers bring a powerful message to the students regarding risk-taking behaviors and living with the long-term consequences of those behaviors.