I'm Just Heidi (Paperback) by Heidi Carter and James Carter

Under the title Surprise Package, Heidi's early story was told by her parents and published in 2003. Starting with that account by Steve and Liz, I'm just Heidi continues with Heidi's own story and that of ‘Heidi and James'. Their story beautifully demonstrates lives worth living with Down's syndrome.

With pictures scattered throughout the book helpful to tell their story and bring a face to the people. Often heart-breaking, always honest, frequently amusing—and above all exceptionally challenging.

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‘There are few people in this world as passionate, articulate, thoughtful and life-giving as Heidi Carter… Heidi lives her life to the full. As we follow Heidi moving into her own flat, holding down a job, getting married, and speaking out for equality for others with Down's syndrome, her love of Jesus shines through. This is an amazingly encouraging book, and a fascinating insight into how Heidi came to be the trail-blazing woman that she is today.' Sally Phillips - Actress and mum to Olly

‘A story of the heartache and joy, hopes and fears of having a child with Down's syndrome… Anyone who has met the irrepressible Heidi and the lovely James will instantly recognise their authentic voices jumping out of the page with their characteristic optimism, realism, understanding and faith. Those who believe that people with Down's syndrome cannot have fulfilling and meaningful lives should read this book and think again.' Dr Liam Fox MP

‘I'm just Heidi gives us a greater insight into the phenomenon that is Heidi Carter. I loved ‘hearing' the different voices in the book; those of her parents, but more importantly, getting the thoughts and writings of Heidi and James themselves… Heidi is a prolific human rights campaigner. Being doggedly determined can be trying but it can also lead to great achievements.' Lynn Murray - Don't Screen Us Out

Title

I'm Just Heidi
Author(s)

Heidi Carter and James Carter
Series

Life Stories
ISBN

9781846257254
Format

Paperback
Publisher

Day One
Audience

Adults
Published

01/08/2022

Download a sample

Overall rating

5.0 based on 1 review

I'm Just Heidi

Heidi Carter née Crowter is a disability rights campaigner. She also has Down’s Syndrome and loves Jesus. This book tells her story. It is really two books in one. The first half is by Heidi’s parents (first published as Surprise package in 2003 and updated in 2008). They movingly describe the shock at having a baby with Down’s Syndrome and how God and their church helped through. Heidi had many serious health conditions in addition to Down’s but God miraculously preserved her life on more than one occasion – true answers to prayer. Both parents give their individual perspectives and are very honest about their thoughts and feelings. This section would be very helpful for any parent in a similar situation, as well as giving pointers to those wanting to offer help. The parents’ narrative ends as Heidi is approaching adulthood. The answer to the question of what happens next is given by Heidi herself in a clear change of style! Heidi is living life to the full and loving it. She covers her work in a hair salon, her family, and her testimony of coming to faith in Jesus. We are treated to her favourite Bible passages and hymns (including one of her own). The high point is her marriage to James in 2020, an inspirational ray of light in a dark year. James then tells his story. When he met Heidi, it was love at first sight. Steve agreed to James’ request for Heidi’s hand at the fourth attempt! Who could think that people with Down’s can’t live fulfilling lives after reading this. And that is the message of the book, expressed in campaigning for disability rights. Victories include the Down Syndrome Act 2022. There have also been setbacks such as when the High Court ruled that abortion up to term is legal for disabled babies. But the fight goes on and this book (and its authors) will surely contribute to it.