For the very first time in my 45 years of living here I missed getting off at Southgate on the Piccadilly line — as I was buried in reading your marvellous book. – Lytta Hale
Helma Christiane – Bloomberg Co-Author of the Bestseller: “Success from the Heart.” Goodwill and Cultural Ambassador International Speaker
Patrick Souiljaert’s game-changing book is a must read.
This book and his global speaking engagements are sure to inspire the world. The book shares with us how his positive mental and can-do attitude has helped him manage his profound daily physical challenges. The reader learns how his courageous warrior heart forges gallantly and triumphantly forward to reach his full potential to claim a rich, rewarding and joyful life. Regardless of your own circumstances, the book will inspire you to take action and claim the life you are meant to live as well.
Forrest Willett – #1 Best Selling Author of “Baseballs Don’t Bounce”
Patrick intentionally and selflessly shared his journey from trauma, fear and frustration to healing and love in order to give hope to others when they may not currently be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Through his book Stairs For Breakfast Patrick truly reclaims his power as he shares his incredible story with others; he also inspires others to reclaim their own power. Enjoy this wonderful story of resilience, compassion, inspiration and kindness. Enjoy Patrick’s frankness and sense of humour. Patrick can make you laugh when others would cry, and shows the reader it is all a matter of perspective. Patrick, I thank you for writing this book and I am grateful for your generosity of spirit in striving to help others find their way.
Ever onwards!!
Kanta Motwani – Best-Selling author of “The Soul of Success”
Stairs For Breakfast is a truly inspiring piece of work. Patrick shows there are no limits except the ones we choose to believe in. Reading this book will enable you to access his hard-earned wisdom and genuine desire to change lives. If you are still making excuses because your life isn’t taking shape, you must read this book to change your results. I truly hope this book changes many lives the world over!
It’s interesting how a book comes our way, I work in a house that I also attend a meditation group, and was fortunate to of met Patrick at this event, whom has the most amazing presence, of open hearted energy. You may be wondering what relevance does this have to a book review, well, please bear with me, I was about to embark on a 3 week trip to Serbia with my son and there was the book, Stairs For Breakfast, in the house, that I work at, so I took my bosses copy, and left him the money to cover the cost, with a note. Having found myself in a remote part of Serbia, with my 14 year old son, who is registered disabled, not physically, with all his vices taken away, we embarked on the journey of reading together, which was truly a gift as was this book. My sons voice became Patrick, and Patrick became our companion. Patrick’s story feels refreshingly real, yet so unreal for most of us. It will give you food for thought, in an inspiring and humorous way. Patrick became my sons mentor, I’d say come on son, are you a mouse or are you like Patrick, when he was being and feeling challenged, and in truth, Patrick had also become my mentor, it is far to easy to forget to live wholly, read this book, and come alive. My son and I did not want the story to end, and rumour has it, book two is imminent. Put these books on your Christmas list. – Adele
This book shows that you can do anything that you want, no matter what others see standing in your way. Patrick answers all those questions you want to ask and don’t ask, in your fear of what you and others will think of you. I couldn’t put the book down as I learned that Patrick has more courage and conviction than I do and still achieves what he decides to. Simply, writing the book is fantastic, then you realise that every step he takes physically means progress for Patrick. Read it and then realise that everything you didn’t do in your life, you can still do it if you want to. Patrick inspires me. With the grace of our fortunate life we have a simple life in comparison. The book is value in its purest sense. Buy it, read it, be inspired and tell others with your review. – Dessie T
I really enjoyed Patricks book . I met Patrick recently and found out he had written a book about his life and experiences with CP . I was intrigued and bought a copy from him . I was hooked , I could not put it down as I read his very honest account of his story so far . This book is funny , sad , inspiring and you will enjoy it . This guy has determination with a capital D . The challenges he undertakes to experience what he wants to achieve and experience will amaze you . He also explains what its like having CP and how people react to him . As he says ” I am just me and ordinary guy “. Well after reading his book you will understand why I think he is an extraordinary guy ! . He bares his soul and wears his heart on his sleeve as he takes you on his journey . Thanks for educating and inspiring me in such a down to earth way . Highly recommend this book . I wonder if one day it might be made into a film ? . Hope so . – Mark
Had the good fortune to come across Patrick in a resteraunt recently and his ‘noisy’ table. Full of laughter and cheer! I purchased ‘stairs for breakfast’ and was gripped from the onset. A truly honest and open account that shows grit and determination. – Sharon
A great read about a man, who has overcome many things in his life and his sheer willpower to succeed is amazing and inspiring to all. If you pick this book up, you won’t put it down til you’ve read it, GUARANTEED. – Richard
Being born with Cerebral Palsy isn’t the easiest start in life for anyone. But here, in this inspiring book, Patrick shows what a man who refuses to allow anyone (including himself) to set limits on what he may achieve. His story is both uplifting and fascinating in it own right. Unashamedly facing his flaws and unabashedly revelling in his strengths he takes us through the highs and lows of his challenging but ultimately fulfilling life. Read it, enjoy, reflect and then ask yourself – what’s holding ME back? – Gavier
Patrick’s Autobiography is a raw, honest, witty and emotional account of his life. A truly inspirational man who has overcome the odds and his attitude and zest for life shine through. I couldn’t put the book down. It is a must read and it will make you look at your life in a totally different way. – D Cooke
A real “can’t put it down” book from Patrick. I intended to read just a few pages a day as per usual but found a couple of hours later time had flown and I was half way through. Some inspirational messages from Patrick with his own very distinct look on life and the cards he has been dealt. I found Patricks book made me look at my life and my attitude to certain situations and then think how Patrick would have reacted in similar circumstances, making him a true role model in the making. Patricks wit, humour and determination stand out from every page. A book to be read and re-read and on my must include on my children’s “must read” list for the future. – Peter Fannon
This is an inspiring book, honest and open. It tells the heartrending story of a man who has overcome incredible odds. Hard to put down. Highly recommended. – P Woodward
A truly amazing book, couldn’t put it down, serious, funny, and inspirational, look forward to the next book. – Rosalind Charles
An inspiring book. I read it from cover to cover in one day. Recommend it to anybody – a true human story. – Chris Smith
There are challenges – big ones like exams, driving tests, buying cars/houses/other big ticket items, travelling to new places and cultures – that we all encounter. And then there are challenges that for so many of us are simple everyday things that we just don’t think about – like speaking, climbing stairs, walking from A to B, getting dressed, using a keyboard. Patrick’s story reveals how he has overcome the latter challenges and gone on to the bigger stuff. Eventually he went on to become a property investor, though the detail of that journey is reserved for his second book. I was privileged and honoured to read an advance copy of Stairs for Breakfast. One of the most remarkable things of of all is his sense of humour, something that he preserves while recounting even some of the most harrowing episodes in his life. If you’re having a tough day, read this. I would place a bet that you’ll look at the world through different eyes afterwards. An inspiring autobiography from a remarkable individual. – Jayne Owen
When someone tells me they can’t do something I tell them Patrick’s story and share his ability to overcome whatever is put in front of him. He is an inspiration. – Glenn Armstrong
Patrick consulted me while writing this book. This book is a must for anyone. It’s honest, funny and inspirational. It humbles me just thinking about the effort it must have taken. – Paul Ribbons
Helen Louise Pellett – I finished this inspirational book only moments ago. ‘Stairs …
I finished this inspirational book only moments ago.
‘Stairs For Breakfast’, captivated me from start to finish, what a guy!
I look forward very much to reading the sequel and becoming absorbed again into Patrick’s world.
A must read for anyone who has gremlins!
Amazon Customer – Life’s journey
I was diagnosed with MS 6 years ago and although I have not had the challenges and difficulties mentioned in this book I have remained positive. Reading this book has inspired me to continue to be positive even though things have become difficult. I used to live in Brighton but am now in Nottinghamshie so reading this book brought back memories of my time there. I look forward to reading the next book.
Kempy7 – What an amazing man!!!
We came across Patrick selling his book two days ago in Shoreham-by-Sea on the very bridge that is featured on the front cover.
Since I brought it home I have been glued to it every possible moment. It is such an up lifting story of how someone who has every reason in the world to give up has lived life to the full with all its ups and downs.
It is totally inspiring and makes you realise what you have got going in your life and how you should go for your goals.
My husband is now reading it and like me he keeps chuckling as he is reading.
Thank you Patrick for all you have given me in the last couple of days and the impact that I am sure will stay with me.
Blanche – Love, laughter and tears with Stairs for Breakfast
Having met Patrick and chatting with him a couple of times, I decided to read his book. He truly is an inspiration to all who spend far too much time feeling sorry for themselves. I will be buying a few more copies for family and friends at Christmas time.
Martyn Baker – A brilliantly written book
A brilliantly written book. I wish Patrick could be my life coach, he has achieved so much, despite adversity. My life has been a piece of cake compared to his, yet he has done so well, compared to myself. If he ever wants a day at BBC News and World Service, let me know. I’ll take him with me from Shoreham (where I live) to London. The staff at The Duke Of Wellington all know me, as I designed their Availability system.
All the best. Martyn. […]
Amazon Customer I look forward to meeting Patrick again
Patrick flogged me his book recently while I was crossing the bridge in Shoreham-by-Sea where the cover photo was taken. It took some courage to do street selling like that since there is obviously the potential for rejection from all those passers-by, so I was intrigued. I’m glad I engaged with him. At the beginning of reading this book I thought, this needs an editor… After a while I realised my initial judgement was wrong – this is Patrick speaking. All I can say is, just read to the end.
Julie Brazier – Inspirational
A really inspiring book relaying the life of an extraordinary person. Look forward to the sequel
Jenny Robinson Five Stars
What a great book. I read it in one sitting. Absolutely worth reading.
David Carroll – Down to earth good read
Here is a ‘warts and all’ poignant autobiography from a guy who will change all your perceptions that you may have of people with CP. The word ‘inspirational’ is used far too frequently, but Patrick is just that. I know him through Sailability, but when you talk to people in Shoreham by Sea, it seems half the town knows him!
Dunclirj – Good Stuff
Intelligent and humorous guy.
Adele – Read this book, and come alive
It’s interesting how a book comes our way, I work in a house that I also attend a meditation group, and was fortunate to of met Patrick at this event, whom has the most amazing presence, of open hearted energy.
You may be wondering what relevance does this have to a book review, well, please bear with me, I was about to embark on a 3 week trip to Serbia with my son and there was the book, Stairs For Breakfast, in the house, that I work at, so I took my bosses copy, and left him the money to cover the cost, with a note. Having found myself in a remote part of Serbia, with my 14 year old son, who is registered disabled, not physically, with all his vices taken away, we embarked on the journey of reading together, which was truly a gift as was this book. My son’s voice became Patrick, and Patrick became our companion. Patrick’s story feels refreshingly real, yet so unreal for most of us. It will give you food for thought, in an inspiring and humorous way. Patrick became my sons mentor, I’d say come on son, are you a mouse or are you like Patrick, when he was being and feeling challenged, and in truth, Patrick had also become my mentor, it is far too easy to forget to live wholly, read this book, and come alive. My son and I did not want the story to end, and rumour has it, book two is imminent. Put these books on your Christmas list.
Neil Stovell – A great read from start to finish
Well what can I say…… I have known Patrick for around 5 years now and thought I knew him fairly well, how wrong was I.
We all find ourselves moaning and complaining about things in life that don’t really matter, now go and live Patrick’s life and you might find you have something to really moan about! A great read from start to finish, a total inspiration for anyone who wants to better them self in life!
Well done Patrick so proud to know you.
Vance Harvey – Excellent read as well as very inspiring
I ordered the book when Paul Ribbons mentioned Patrick was writing it late last year, and it came in time to take to Italy to read on the beach.
I have seen Patrick at a few property meetings over the last 5 years, but have never spoken with him; I used to wonder who this person was, and now I know!
It’s very enthralling reading how Patrick has coped with his life and some of the folk who seemed to have frustrated him more than helping him – although I suspect he doesn’t need as much help as some people may think?
His attention to detail is amazing – another reviewer notes about his forensic mind to detail, as if he has a photographic memory for everything that has ever happened in his life.
I would thoroughly recommend anyone to read the book – it is easy reading – if only to see how someone with CP actually copes with everyday things most people take for granted.
Patrick I salute you – and look forward to buying Volume 2.
KDP-VVP – YOU the dude!
Hey Patrick – I read ‘Stairs For Breakfast’, cover to cover, within one week. Five years ago, we met during Property Networking. At the time, I said that you were (are) truly inspirational. Having now read your autobiography (part 1 – can’t wait for part 2!), you have clearly demonstrated that you’ve ‘walked the walk’. I cannot imagine living the life that you’ve led so far – I am not worthy! It’s an honour to have known you, and I know for sure that you’ll continue to maintain your ‘onward and upward’ attitude to life’s challenges. YOU the dude! 🙂
Mark Pargeter – Loved it and Highly recommend this book!
I really enjoyed Patrick’s book. I met Patrick recently and found out he had written a book about his life and experiences with CP. I was intrigued and bought a copy from him. I was hooked, I could not put it down as I read his very honest account of his story so far. This book is funny, sad, inspiring and you will enjoy it. This guy has determination with a capital D. The challenges he undertakes to experience what he wants to achieve and experience will amaze you. He also explains what it’s like having CP and how people react to him. As he says “I am just me and ordinary guy “. Well after reading his book you will understand why I think he is an extraordinary guy! He bares his soul and wears his heart on his sleeve as he takes you on his journey. Thanks for educating and inspiring me in such a down to earth way. Highly recommend this book. I wonder if one day it might be made into a film? Hope so.
Mrs SA Amphlett – Never underestimate the difference you can make in the lives of others!
Had the good fortune to come across Patrick in a restaurant recently and his ‘noisy’ table. Full of laughter and cheer! I purchased ‘stairs for breakfast’ and was gripped from the onset. A truly honest and open account that shows grit and determination.
Richard Goodyer – A great read about a man
A great read about a man, who has overcome many things in his life and his sheer willpower to succeed is amazing and inspiring to all. If you pick this book up, you won’t put it down till you’ve read it, GUARANTEED. Well done Patrick.
Dessie T – You can if you think you can and then do something about it
This book shows that you can do anything that you want, no matter what others see standing in your way. Patrick answers all those questions you want to ask and don’t ask, in your fear of what you and others will think of you. I couldn’t put the book down as I learned that Patrick has more courage and conviction than I do and still achieves what he decides to. Simply, writing the book is fantastic, then you realise that every step he takes physically means progress for Patrick. Read it and then realise that everything you didn’t do in your life, you can still do it if you want to. Patrick inspires me. With the grace of our fortunate life we have a simple life in comparison. The book is value in its purest sense. Buy it, read it, be inspired and tell others with your review.
Gavin – Inspirational
Being born with Cerebral Palsy isn’t the easiest start in life for anyone. But here, in this inspiring book, Patrick shows what a man who refuses to allow anyone (including himself) to set limits on what he may achieve. His story is both uplifting and fascinating in its own right. Unashamedly facing his flaws and unabashedly revelling in his strengths he takes us through the highs and lows of his challenging but ultimately fulfilling life. Read it, enjoy, reflect and then ask yourself – what’s holding ME back?
Roy Stannard – Uplifting and un-put-down-able
I have to declare an interest here. I have known Patrick for the last 20 years and as a friend I appear in the book. Having said this, I am not reviewing the book as a friend or because I think that Patrick needs a helping hand.
This is entirely representative of the man who never, ever admits that he is beaten. ‘Stairs for Breakfast’ is the first instalment of a two part autobiography and it will hold you in its grasp from start to finish. Why? Because it is relentlessly, painfully honest – about his own and other people’s failings – and yet at the same time this is leavened by an invigorating and irreligious sense of humour that charms a laugh out of you even when you are crying inside at the unfair burdens that Patrick has inherited in life.
Parts of the book touched me even though I have known him a long time. His 30 minute routine in the morning to get himself ready, the painful encounters with other students at the schools he attended… the devastating lack of empathy and care at some of his work places.
However, what shines through is Patrick’s determination, courage and good humour in the face of almost overwhelming odds. The sheer act of writing this book with one index finger and a keyboard itself almost defies belief. The book is designed for anyone who thinks that they have a hard life, that the odds of everyday existence are stacked against them that they are labouring under an unfair disadvantage or phobia. If you are feeling hard-done by, lonely, unloved and the stairs ahead of you look daunting or too high, please read this book now – and its sequel when it comes out.
The world won’t look the same after you finish this book.
D. Cooke – Truly Inspirational!
Patrick’s Autobiography is a raw, honest, witty and emotional account of his life. A truly inspirational man who has overcome the odds and his attitude and zest for life shine through. I couldn’t put the book down. It is a must read and it will make you look at your life in a totally different way.
Jayne – Inspiring!
There are challenges – big ones like exams, driving tests, buying cars/houses/other big ticket items, travelling to new places and cultures – that we all encounter. And then there are challenges that for so many of us are simple everyday things that we just don’t think about – like speaking, climbing stairs, walking from A to B, getting dressed, using a keyboard. Patrick’s story reveals how he has overcome the latter challenges and gone on to the bigger stuff. Eventually he went on to become a property investor, though the detail of that journey is reserved for his second book. I was privileged and honoured to read an advance copy of Stairs for Breakfast. One of the most remarkable things of all is his sense of humour, something that he preserves while recounting even some of the most harrowing episodes in his life. If you’re having a tough day, read this. I would place a bet that you’ll look at the world through different eyes afterwards. An inspiring autobiography from a remarkable individual.
Peter Fannon – A book to read and re-read
I real “can’t put it down” book from Patrick. I intended to read just a few pages a day as per usual but found a couple of hours later time had flown and I was half way through. Some inspirational messages from Patrick with his own very distinct look on life and the cards he has been dealt. I found Patricks book made me look at my life and my attitude to certain situations and then think how Patrick would have reacted in similar circumstances, making him a true role model in the making. Patrick’s wit, humour and determination stand out from every page. A book too be read and re-read and on my must include on my children’s “must read” list for the future.
P. Woodward – Let this book inspire you
This is an inspiring book, honest and open. It tells the heartrending story of a man who has overcome incredible odds. Hard to put down. Highly recommended.
Rosalind Charles – Five Stars
A truly amazing book, couldn’t put it down, serious, funny, and inspirational, look forward to the next book.
Chris Smith – An inspiring story – and true
An inspiring book. I read it from cover to cover in one day. Recommend it to anybody – a true human story.
