Surprised by Tragedy: Finding Hope When Your Days Are Dark

I enjoyed the compelling story of the author's transplant. As far as the "finding hope" part, I didn't find a lot of substance, and there are far more informative books on PF out there.

Facing IPF it was good to read about someone else’s journey. Doubt I will ever able to have a lung transplant but this helps give me perspective on the course laid before me that I have to traverse.

Great read! I attend the same church as Tim Cox and followed his health journey through his family’s blog. By happenstance, I heard he wrote a book about his health journey and I immediately ordered and read this book. This book is a raw, honest account of the trajectory of what happened to him during diagnosis, waiting, transplant, and post operative complications and set backs. He details his emotions, thoughts, and his experience - all while continuing to give God the glory, even during very difficult, trying times. As a nurse, I appreciated his honestly about the daily care portion of his journey. I think those in the medical field would enjoy the medical details included - especially those with transplant and critical care experience. All in all, I highly recommend this book. It’s a quick read and can easily be enjoyably read in an evening.

This is the best book I have ever read on a subject like this. The way Tim documented his diagnosis, weaving together the health details and prognosis but accurately describing his mental, emotional, and spiritual responses was inspiring.The book was most helpful in subtle yet specific suggestions for us as we minister to those with chronic illness. In describing his own motivation to pursue health Tim encourages us to be diligent with thankful hearts for our own physical well-being. The courage displayed by Tim and Diane when faced with unexpected tragedy sets the goal for us to partake in others suffering.In my 45 years of ministry I have never read an account of such inspiring faith in the midst of being “Surprised by Tragedy.” I highly recommend this book. Dr. Brian Richardson

I was thoroughly captivated in reading Tim's journey of extreme health challenges and couldn't put the book down, finishing it in one day! It is very well-written and not only documents what he & Diane have been through, but also gives great practical suggestions on how to live beyond the emotional circumstances, to find hope in the midst of pain and despair. Along with bringing encouragement and inspiration to those experiencing current tragedies of their own, it is also a great resource for those who wish to minister and help others who are in similar situations. Though Tim describes his real human emotions and struggles, he also effectively illuminates God's love and sovereignty. I highly recommend this book!

I read most of this book through teary eyes. Having been surprised by tragedy a couple of times in the last few years, I found that Tim was able to put into words, exactly what it feels like to be faced with a life changing diagnosis, and the journey that follows. Tim effectively describes the day to day challenges, the “living” while waiting, the victories and set-backs, and the encouragement from unexpected people and situations.. I found every part of this book and of Tim’s journey, compelling and an accurate description of what it looks like to be Surprised by Tragedy.

In the face of such a tragedy, Tim revealed his story realistically, sharing the ups and downs, and yet was so encouraging to see how his trust was always in the Lord. And his wife, Diane, was so strong for him, too, because of her faith in Christ.

This was a fascinating point of view account of the most awful circumstances medically one could imagine. Tim's blow by blow account and comments about how he was processing it all from various points of view was fascinating. I was deeply encouraged in my own walk with Jesus, and reading the book cleared out my tear ducts! I loved the book!