This summer seems to be the summer for not only movies but for books as well ( not to mention books that were turned into movies). Many books were on my radar, but because of my busy schedule this summer, I have not been able to read much. However, due to the amazing suggestion of one of my very best friends , I began to read the popular love story Me Before You.For those of you that have not heard about this book. it's a great read about a man with a disability, his caretaker, and their love story. It's a beautiful book and an awesome movie and I suggest you see it. However, this story has created outrage within the disabled community and even those who are not disabled. Maybe it's because of the ending, or maybe it's not. As sad as I found this book and its movie to be, I found it just as inspirational. Will, the male protagonist, was injured in a car accident that left him paralyzed from about the shoulders down with limited use of his hands. He basically told his caregiver Louisa that she should live every day to the fullest because you never know when your life could be taken from you either in death or injury. Some say that Will's character made people with disabilities look weak. However, I strongly disagree with this opinion. The life he knew was taken from him and he was angry. For the purpose of this article, I would like to say that I was born with my disability so I speak only from my own opinion when I say that not all people with disabilities are unhappy with their lives all the time.
Another topic that I think this book broaches well is the topic of love and disability. I have never been in a relationship but I can say that many of my friends with disabilities have. I have watched them find guys that accept their disabilities and guys that have not. After watching these relationships unfold, I can say that I agree with a lot of Will's fears about his and Lou's relationship . He tells her that he is afraid that she will wake up one day realize that she didn't want her life with him or to live with any regret. This is one that if I'm honest, I will say that I am scared of. While my disability is not as severe as Will's, I still have some limitations. But it's all okay and I know when I find the right guy he will love me and my disability just the same. Now to the ending :
** SPOILER ALERT***
Will decides that he wants to commit suicide via physician-assisted suicide. Regarding the issue, I believe that it is 100% up to the person that wants to undergo this act. However, in the case of Will, I believe that while it is still his choice, he could have spent a little more time with Lou because she was willing to love him for all of him.
I recommend this book to everyone who wishes to read a thrilling love story. As it will hopefully change your outlook on life.
