Hello Everyone! It has been an exciting time seeing Thomas' story finally get published. And now, the website is officially up and running. Please feel free to add your reviews, if you have read his story! I would also appreciate any stories that you would like to share about Thomas with everyone! Thank you for your continued support!
Kathy
Mike Strom
All parents, and educators should read this book. I'm not sure why I waited so long, but yesterday, at 1 pm, I finally picked up your book. I read for hours. When I went to bed, I continued to read until 1:30 am. When I woke up, I finished your book. I'm glad I did. It made the last 20 hours some of the most meaningful for me this summer. You, and Thomas still continue to inspire! Thank you for writing it.
LaVerna Moreland
11/13/2024Although I only mostly knew Thomas through his mother, I was in tears as I read that final chapter, recalling walking alongside Kathy as a colleague. Remembering those moments, the pictures of Thomas when he was 'puffy' from retaining water...when he was out East, so far from his parents. Like his parents never once thinking that this was the beginning of Thomas' final chapter on this earth with his family. He will never be forgotten but be reminded for his tenacity and courage to keep moving forwards until he could no longer do so.
Marnie Pallesen
Just finished reading Living in the Land of the Uprights. It’s an amazing story of a courageous young man with more goals than his short life allowed him to pursue. As the story follows Thomas through his life, we learn that he was an artist, an athlete, and an academic who wanted to make life easier for others who live with disabilities. He was also a son, brother, grandson, friend, teammate, classmate, cousin, and nephew. Thomas was caring, kind, funny, smart and determined. While the story is a loving tribute to Thomas, it also highlights first hand some of the many challenges experienced by people living with disabilities and their families who must constantly advocate for access, care, resources and support. We learn how important it is to trust your parental instincts and intuition. You will witness determination, love, ups and downs, frustration and fear and you will be brought to tears.
Louise Gravelle
Dear Kathy, I was very touched reading your book about your son Thomas's rare form of muscular dystrophy, which left him physically helpless. His intelligence, drive, and determination to advocate for people with disabilities were remarkable. This book has left me with a deeper understanding and a more comprehensive support for parents and the inclusivity of people with disabilities. Thomas story is a beacon of hope, leaving legacy that will undoubtedly inspire readers for generation to come. Sincerely Louise Gravelle ps Happy Birthday in Haven Thomas
Julie Sutherland
I finished the book last night! It was amazing. Thank you Kathy for sharing such a powerful story of your experiences in your book. I am in awe of your strength. You and your family went through so much! Thomas is one of those beautiful souls that came to earth to be a teacher/guiding light. You have that light too❤️
Ron Peake
Living in the Land of the Uprights is much more than a story of raising a child with a disability and navigating the education and health care systems. It’s also a love story between a mother and son, father and son, and son who loves the world and makes it his own. Kathy and Glen’s unwavering dedication to both their son and the greater community that Thomas was apart of is awesome and inspiring. Not always easy to read without a tissue handy, but worth getting to know Thomas’ story and the impact he had (and continues to have) on the community. A must-read for any parent!
Ximena McGrah
We want to express our sincere gratitude to you, Kathy, for sharing your inspiring story. Your family’s journey is both incredible and courageous—one of triumph and heartbreak. It has left our family feeling deeply inspired, yet also reflective and uncertain. While the health system’s processes can sometimes fall short, we are truly thankful for the insight you’ve provided, shedding light on the realities many face.
Sandi Warnke
One of the most powerful, outstanding books I've read in a long time! Congratulations! Thomas was nothing short of an incredible individual with hopes and dreams like the rest of us. The only difference is that he accomplished most of his with the love and support off his amazing family and friends. This book is a must read for every person on the planet! Thank you Sorensens for baring your souls and sharing this incredible story.
John
Read. This. Book. Living in the Land of Uprights is a love story. A love story between parents raising a son, Thomas, with a rare form of muscular dystrophy (MD) and the incredible challenges they faced. The love story continues with the unselfish devotion of an older brother who would do anything for Thomas. The love of grandparents, family friends, and the people that came in contact with Thomas.
Thomas is an incredible young man who accomplished more in his short life than many of us do in a full lifetime. His determination to advocate for the disabled, and the success he had in doing so, is inspirational and heartwarming.
Then there is Kathy and Glenn. Two incredible parents whose love for their son drives them to be advocates in getting the best medical care for Thomas was a constant battle, a battle that neither of them gave up on! A MUST READ!
Warning: Have some tissues ready. You will laugh and you will cry.
Mary Ann Frost
I was thoroughly impressed by this book, from learning about what the reality of life was for both Thomas and his family. There were hurdles while not only raising a special needs son but assisting him to learn about his illness and thrive using his brilliant mind and giving heart. You could feel this need in Thomas and the inclusion and praise he was encouraged to possess from his family. How lucky that Thomas was chosen to be raised by his special family and allowed to soar about and experience during his short 18 years of life. I also liked the way Thomas’s life was put to paper while describing the reality of his life. There was information of what came to pass on a daily basis but also the joy and proudness and confusion and sadness and also happy times rather than all dwelling. As Thomas grew into his teenage and young adult time we get to read about his kind soul and his brilliance and eagerness to find a cure for his rare type of MD. As life on this earth was nearing the end for Thomas I could feel so much sadness and pain in my heart but also feeling blessed by getting to read such a real heartfelt story of Thomas Living in the Uprights.
Jeff Wilson
I found your book today and couldn't put it down once I started reading it. I was constantly reminded of Thomas's infectious personality, had moments of literally laughing out loud, and definitely shed some tears. You did a wonderful job of honoring him and I am immensely proud and grateful to have been a small part of Thomas's story and your family's amazing journey.
Thank you for sharing some of the most intimate details of your family's experiences; it was compelling and inspiring.
It is a beautiful book that I will recommend to many and reflect on often.
Betty O.
Once I started reading, I couldn't put it down. First reaction is Wow!! That was some undertaking to write that. Must have stirred up all kinds of emotion. It's the story of all of you. Honest and forthright. Hopefully a bit therapeutic for you. I have always found grief to be weird. Hits you when you least expect it. Sometimes hard and sometimes soft. It does get easier but it takes time. I couldn't help but feel that somehow you guys are not done yet. Maybe the next chapter is advocates for kids with same or similar issues.
Cathie Driver
Everyone should read this beautiful, honest, poignant, funny, and very powerful book! It’s the engaging story of Thomas Sorensen’s short but meaningful life, detailing his remarkable dreams and inspiring achievements despite living with a rare form of muscular dystrophy. This narrative hits all the emotions, yet somehow leaves one feeling just a little more okay about the world. Kathaleen recounts the events with humour and candor, illuminating the amazing love and determination of Thomas and his family. This book is seriously hard to put down, and it’s one of those rare gems that will really stay with you, in a good way. I’m grateful to have read it! 5 Stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
