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Karen A. Gorr was born in 1937 and developed debilitating physical challenges shortly thereafter due to a prolonged illness. Her mother was a single parent with another disabled child and no familial support. When her mother became ill, she placed her children in an institution for the "feeble-minded" since no other facilities stepped up to help. Karen spent 10 years of her childhood there, and she constantly longed to escape the abuse, isolation, hunger, and neglect.

A Life of Triumph is Ms. Gorr's story of how her own determination, grit, stubbornness, and a sense of humor - and the help of friends and professionals - enabled her to find a life beyond an institution. She shares her transformation from a "limp rag doll" into a scholarship student, teacher, public speaker, board member, and advocate for those with mental and physical disabilities. Along the way, Ms. Gorr learns to forgive those who caused her so much suffering, and she's blessed with what she calls the "ultimate gift" - her own perfect daughter who has made the whole journey worthwhile.