Have Crutch Will Travel: The Adventures of a Modern Day Calamity Jane

Disabled in a motor vehicle accident at age 19, author Cale Kenney survived one of the most radical female amputations performed. Writing from the perspective of amputee "peer visits," Cale answers the question, "What happened to you?" and exchanges stories at bedsides of those who have lost, or are about to lose a limb. Describing the accident's initially grim impact and her recovery process to individuals facing the trauma of limb loss, the storytelling also heals this veteran amputee.

Throughout "Have Crutch Will Travel," Cale testifies in graphic honesty about confronting deep loss, investigates women's issues of beauty and body image, and illustrates with humor her misadventures on crutches. Whether she is chasing a potbellied pig, "one crutch to walk, one to whack," or losing a crutch in the Atlantic Ocean or the Colorado River, she transforms the silly into the sublime.

Celebrating the mountain experiences she discovered through skiing—a spiritual journey to a peak experience—Cale's memoir is a testament to the strides made by disabled athletes prior to the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Inspiring readers who may be having doubts in their lives, Cale's descriptive prose quickly mesmerizes her audience and invigorates those without hope, while offering an inviting look into the life of an active, modern day Calamity Jane.