A Joy I'd Never Known

by Jan Dravecky

For Jan Dravecky, joy came after she released control over her life . . . into the hands of the God who had been waiting to receive it. A Joy I'd Never Known traces Jan's painful journey from control to surrender, winding from her protected childhood through a series of tragic losses, her husband's cancer and the ultimate amputation of his arm, the downward spiral of a devastating clinical depression, the lack of understanding on the part of fellow Christians, and finally, to hope, growth, and joy as Jan found the help she needed. Jan's gripping, personal story sheds much-needed light on depression, anxiety attacks, and the need for a balanced, surrendered lifestyle. And for all who feel the lingering shame of emotional trauma or the need to 'keep it together' at any cost, this book offers empathy and hope for change . . . and points the way to a joy beyond imagination.

Genres: Memoir, Biography

208 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 1996

Reviews

[Kenzie | kenzienoelle.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. 10/10. Jan Is so transparent in sharing her story and her suffering and how she found freedom and joy in Christ while struggling with anxiety, panic attacks and depression. Super encouraging and challenging.

[Leila Kern · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have had this book for awhile and read portions of the book, then put the bookaway. I finally picked up the book and decided to really put my mind to reading it. I remember when Jan and Dave Draveky were dealing with Dave's cancer diagnosis and subsequent surgeries.
I appreciate Jan's candor and transparency of her life. So many people (not just females) experience depression and panic attacks and are told to just deal with it. But, how does one deal? Especially when a pastor isn't helpful.
I try to deal with anxiety and panic attacks. This book helps especially when you one learns to lean on the Lord. It helps to have someone in your corner.
I love that the "valley" they went through led them to the foundation they founded to try and help people through their "valleys".
I truly admire and respect both Jan for her story and Jan and Dave for what they went through together. This book is a keeper.

[N · Rating 4 out of 5]

Inspirational Faith-based book.

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent read. Jan shares her struggles with mental illness and how that illness was perceived by the Evangelical Church. I was able to related to her story.

[Jacob Heil]

LC Call No.: BR1725.D713.A3 1996

[Cindy Van Iwaarden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don't care for nonfiction but this was very informative. Wife of a famous athlete Jan tells of her struggle with anxiety and panic disorder. I found this book very encouraging.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really liked this book about living through tragedy and adversity, especially chapter 17 about the importance of grieving.

[Jennifer Robb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Jan Dravecky talks candidly about her struggle with depression.