Visions of Hope: Running Towards My Own Truth
Jason Dunkerley’s Visions of Hope: Running Towards My Own Truth is the uplifting autobiography of a world-class athlete, blind from birth with a congenital eye condition, who achieved international acclaim as a five-time Paralympic middle-distance runner and five-time medalist.
In telling his story, Jason introduces the reader to the behind-the-scenes intricacies of top-tier athletics: the rigours of intensive training; the building of rapport among athlete, guide and coach; the development and implementation of winning strategies; the never-ending struggle to excel; the searing letdown of defeat, and the euphoric triumph of victory.
Visions of Hope also sheds light on the personal hurdles Jason has surmounted. His narrative is one of resilience and determination – from adapting to a new country and culture as a teenage following his family’s move from Northern Ireland to Canada to overcoming the daily challenges posed by his blindness. And he offers invaluable insights into the power of sport to transform lives and the importance of community support in achieving personal and professional milestones.
Reader comments
“Visions of Hope is an insightful, at times poetic, account of the life of a Canadian Paralympian. . . . [Jason] tells his story engagingly, with honesty and gusto. Right off the top, you’re caught up in the stresses and adventures of the sport and the efforts he had to make to manage the relationships and environment around him. I learned a lot and developed tremendous admiration for Jason and his teammates. It’s a moving and courageous story.”
Bruce Kidd, Professor Emeritus of Sport Politics and Policy at the University
of Toronto, competed in athletics at the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo and was twice elected Canada’s Male Athlete of the Year by Canadian Press.