A local author's tribute to her son has generated a great deal of interest beyond the Foothills.
Heritage Pointe resident Kathaleen Sorensen's book Living in the Land of the Uprights topped the Calgary Herald non-fiction bestsellers list on Sept. 21.
The book, a memoir on the life of Thomas Sorensen, offers an intimate look at his life and the impact he had on those around him.
"He was an amazing kid," said Kathaleen of her son. "He didn't let anything stand in his way. He wanted to follow his dreams and he moved mountains."
Suffering from a rare form of muscular dystrophy, ever-optimistic Thomas dedicated himself to becoming an accomplished advocate for those suffering from disabilities. For the courage and dedication he showed in the face of such hardship, he was recognized with the Terry Fox Humanitarian Award in 2013.
"I strive to create an example of all that I can be so that others in my situation can see disability for what it is. Disability does not separate me from anyone. All people are disabled, and only some are temporarily enabled. Everyone will age. Everyone will need a little help. If people understand this, then all are equal," reads a quote from Thomas.
He made headlines when he and his family successfully lobbied the government for funding to allow Thomas to pursue his studies at Carleton University in Ottawa and access the university's specialized care program.
"Raising a child with a disability is not easy," said Kathaleen. "We're hoping the book will reach out to families who are in those situations... we're hoping that we can inspire some people and let people know that there are ways around things. You just have to stand up for yourself and advocate."
Thomas was 18 when he passed away on Sept. 1, 2014. In his memory, the annual Thomas Sorensen Memorial Scholarship — offering $3,000 in financial support to a first-year student suffering from a permanent disability — was established at Carleton University, where he had made the dean's list as a first-year biology student.
Living in the Land of the Uprights offers a firsthand look into Thomas' life, including quotes from his social media pages, and shows the hardships he had to overcome along with the positivity he always showed.
"I wanted to do it for Thomas and to carry on his legacy," said Kathaleen, who made sure to have the book published in September to honour the anniversary of her son's passing. "It took 10 years, but we got it done."
With readers across North America and even Europe purchasing the book on Amazon, Kathaleen has been thrilled with the response.
"It brought tears to my eyes," she said of the book's popularity.
"He was that kind of kid. He was put on this earth for a reason."
Despite the international sales and placement atop the bestsellers list, Kathaleen is more interested in the book's impact on readers.
Thomas had a lasting impact on all who knew him, and Kathaleen hopes the same goes for readers, adding that she aims to "let you laugh, let you cry, let you be inspired and never give up."
