Reviews
" Playing Hurt is John Saunders's personal, poignant story of how he responded to childhood traumas, abuse, clinical depression, an array of head traumas, sports injuries, suicidal thoughts, and excessive use of prescribed medications throughout his life. His hard-learned message: when depression strikes, it is a sign of real strength to talk and turn to family, friends, and experts." -- John F. Greden, MD, Founding Chair, National Network of Depression Centers (NNDC), "For 30 years, my friend John Saunders earned my admiration for his understated demeanor, his top-of-the-line professionalism, his Old World ways, and his gentle yet warm smile and laughter. I'm sure those who never met him except through TV felt the exact same way. After reading Playing Hurt , my respect for him has increased exponentially. So will yours. Thank you, John."-- Chris Berman, legendary ESPN broadcaster, " Playing Hurt is a public service. Here is a trusted friend, a man who has spent so many hours in our living rooms, providing an education about brain injury, about depression, and the symbiosis between the two. Knowing he died so soon after he emerged from this fog is heartbreaking. Playing Hurt is a testament to John and the hidden struggles he overcame." -- Ivan Maisel, ESPN.com, six-time winner Best Writing, Football Writers Association, "This is an important book. Parts will leave you shaken, others will inform you, still others will uplift you. Playing Hurt is the final act of grace in John's remarkable life, so we may learn of the toll of depression, the need for diagnosis and treatment, and the hope that awaits."-- Bob Ley, host of ESPN's Outside the Lines, winner of 11 Emmy Awards, "This book underscores the difficulty and significance of acknowledging depression, as well as understanding that this is not unlike any other serious and chronic illness. Then, as Saunders learns, with the assistance of skilled porfessionals and loving, caring, and supportive family and friends, it can be diagnoses, treated, and managed."-- Elissa P. Benedek, past President, American Psychiatric Association, "I read the entire 293 pages in one sitting. I couldn't put it down...I miss John Saunders. After reading his book, which helped unlock some explanations for me, I miss him even more."-- ESPN?s John Buccigross
