Racing Uphill
Confronting a Life with Epilepsy
by Stacia Kalinoski
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Pub Date Jul 01 2025 | Archive Date May 11 2025
University of Minnesota Press | Univ Of Minnesota Press
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Description
The candid, inspiring story of a woman’s experience with a chronic, unpredictable neurological condition
When twenty-nine-year-old reporter Stacia Kalinoski regained consciousness on a couch at the TV station where she worked, she assumed that she’d had another seizure. But the electrical storm that had just torn through her brain was more destructive than she could have imagined, and the broadcast journalism career she loved swiftly came to an end. Forced to confront the reality of her medical condition, Kalinoski made the risky decision to undergo brain surgery, targeting the epilepsy that was ravaging her life.
In Racing Uphill, Kalinoski describes the seizures that occurred while she was running, which led to her pursuit of an uncertain cure. Rallying the grit she developed as an athlete and engaging the research and reporting skills she acquired as a journalist, she gives us a rare inside look at the ways epilepsy can change a life. Moving beyond her own personal experience, Kalinoski interviews prominent epileptologists to understand how seizures can spread, steal memories, and create strange behaviors and mood disorders. She seamlessly joins what she learned from her research with her own story, offering valuable insight into the experience of grappling with a relentless neurological disease.
The vivid auras that preceded seizures and the damage that followed; the toll of her epilepsy on her family and loved ones; the extraordinary determination her reckoning required—these are all part of Kalinoski’s story of adversity, denial, acceptance, and resilience. In sharing the remarkable opportunity that epilepsy presented for her courage and growth, Stacia Kalinoski speaks to anyone facing an uphill battle and offers inspiration for taking control of one’s own health.
Advance Praise
"Stacia Kalinoski’s courage in sharing her personal journey with epilepsy is truly inspiring. Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders, yet as a society, we still have much to learn about understanding and supporting those who live with it. Through her powerful storytelling, Kalinoski not only raises vital public awareness but also offers hope and encouragement to others navigating life with seizures." —Jenna Carter, executive director, Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota
"Stacia Kalinoski has been an inspiration in my life and my son’s life, giving hope to those with epilepsy through her resolve and willingness to stand up for herself and others with seizure disorders. Her memoir further highlights her amazing fighting spirit. Within these pages, she offers encouragement to millions of Americans who are struggling—emphasizing that they, too, can overcome." —Wayne Drash, Emmy Award–winning journalist and author
Available Editions
| EDITION | Other Format |
| ISBN | 9781517917463 |
| PRICE | $19.95 (USD) |
| PAGES | 240 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
Educator 1511420
The author provides a thoughtful window into epilepsy—how it affects every aspect of a person’s life. Her long road to a proper diagnosis, along with the complexity of her disorder, is a testament to Stacia’s resilience and bravery. A profile in courage that is a must-read for anyone who is dealing with a chronic disease/disorder.
Jean M, Reviewer
Racing Uphill is an inspiring and powerful memoir that captures the strength and resilience of Stacia Kalinowski. A former college athlete and successful TV news reporter, Stacia’s world was turned upside down by the onset of debilitating seizures. Her journey through misdiagnosis, job loss, and ultimately brain surgery is both heart-wrenching and deeply moving. What stands out most is her unwavering determination and hope, even in the face of life-altering challenges. Her story is a testament to the power of persistence, the importance of medical research, and the strength of a supportive family. Stacia’s bravery not only led her to healing but also inspired her to create the documentary Brainstorm, bringing greater awareness to epilepsy. I highly recommend this memoir to anyone looking for a story of courage and triumph.
Thank you to NetGalley and the University of Minnesota Press for the advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.
Reviewer 1531860
This is a very informative memoir that gives insight as to what it’s like to live with epilepsy. Stacia Kalinosli shares what it was like searching for answers to her illness, trying different treatments, and trying to hide how severe her illness truly was from her loved ones. She writes about how epilepsy affected every aspect of her life including her memory and career. Her powerful story gives hope to those struggling with epilepsy and or other chronic illnesses / disabilities.
Stacia Kalinosli is very resilient. Her story is eye opening and thought provoking. Many readers will be able to relate Stacia when she writes what it’s like being health then having her health decline. I admire her so much. It’s very beautiful how she’s sharing her story that will help so many others. .
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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