NEWS

 

We’re always delighted to cheer on Davidson Wildcats who’ve launched books into the world. And last Tuesday was “pub day” for Hope Fights Back by Andrea Lytle Peet ‘03.

The publication of this book hits a little differently for those of us on staff who are fortunate to know Andrea. For starters, it’s but the latest in a long run of remarkable achievements by the Davidson alum. Aside from authoring and publishing a book, Andrea has also spent the past few years:

• Completing 50 marathons in all 50 states;

• Raising over $1 million for her non-profit, Team Drea Foundation;

• Starring as the subject of an award-winning documentary: Go On, Be Brave;

• Inspiring hundreds of athletes – many of whom are beginners – to challenge themselves by setting and reaching outlandish goals, from 5ks to Ironman 70.3 races and beyond; and

• Doing it all while living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: ALS.

Andrea received her diagnosis in 2014, at 33 years old. She was told to prepare: for the loss of mobility, for the loss of autonomy, and ultimately, for the loss of her own life. The typical life expectancy for someone living with ALS is 2-5 years after diagnosis.

But when she realized that the disease was progressing more slowly in certain parts of her body, Andrea made a clear choice: Instead of waiting to die, she would fully embrace living, moving forward with urgent purpose, resolve, and hope, for as long as she can.

In May of 2022, Andrea Lytle Peet became the first person with ALS to complete 50 marathons in 50 different states. The story of that audacious goal, and the epic journey to meet it, was captured in the gorgeous documentary Go On, Be Brave. For a sneak peak, check out the trailer via this link: Watch the trailer.

But, true to her nature, Andrea didn’t stop there. She partnered with triathlete and author Meredith Atwood to pen a full-length memoir, ensuring that her voice, her story, and her fervent commitment to hope will inspire readers forever.

We’re honored to partner with Team Drea Foundation to support the Davidson premiere of Go On, Be Brave at Our Town Cinemas on Thursday, October 12 at 7 pm, with a special appearance by Andrea and her husband David. And we will have copies of Hope Fights Back: Fifty Marathons and a Life-or-Death Race Against ALS available at the event for Andrea to sign.

You don’t want to miss it.

with gratitude – and hope,

Adah & the Main Street Books team

PS – Our fall calendar is filling quickly! Scroll down to learn more about the other wonderful authors coming to visit in the next few months.