“I Dream of Things That Never Were: The Ken Kunken Story”

Paralyzed while playing college football in 1970, Ken Kunken battles back from the depths of depression and despair, earns four college degrees and becomes a well-respected assistant district attorney.

Ken believes that everyone has the inner strength to tackle what, to many, would seem to be almost insurmountable odds so that even the most difficult obstacles can be the springboard to the most satisfying success. But I Dream of Things That Never Were is about more than overcoming adversity. It is also a love story that leads Ken to marry the woman of his dreams and become the father of triplet boys. A true-life story that inspires and motivates others to fight for their dreams against overwhelming odds.

“I’ve long known the story of Ken Kunken. As a kid, it was a cautionary tale. But this book is a powerful reminder that Ken’s story is so much more than that—it is one of triumph and inspiration. His life has been a masterclass in determining the trajectory of our lives, no matter the obstacles and challenges we face.”

Jim Axelrod, CBS News

“Ken Kunken’s autobiography is a stirring account of a path-breaking pioneer who has lived his life utterly defying expectations. It is an unflinching, authentic account of the trailblazing life of a heretofore underappreciated American disability rights hero.”

Christopher J. Rosa, PhD, President & CEO, The Viscardi Center

“Brilliant. Authentic. A life lesson in tenacity and resilience. And a most beautiful love story! This is the best book I’ve ever read that describes, in real ways, how life goes on after a shocking college football injury. How everyone can direct their own lives, maintain their dignity and self-respect, be hopeful of living a full life of one’s own choosing, in the face of such extreme adversity.”

John D. Kemp, President & CEO, Lakeshore Foundation

“With the help of his loving family, loyal neighborhood and college friends, and fueled by an unquenchable desire to navigate life on his own terms, Ken has managed to attain his educational and career goals, and has changed the world as we know it in the process. Following his journey from Cornell to the courtroom and beyond, I found myself rooting for Ken and his family as if they were my own.”

Patrick Nolan, Malverne High School teacher, coach

“Life’s not fair. Ken Kunken has known that truth intimately since he broke his neck in 1970 and became almost completely paralyzed. Whenever I’m having a bad day, I ask myself ‘What would Ken Kunken do?’ That immediately puts things back into perspective. So, stop whining and read Ken’s book.”

John DeDakis, writing coach and award-winning novelist

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