At the peak of her young life, she was dealt a terrible hand: a devastating neurological disease. But she played her cards to the fullest, living a life brimming with joy and inspiration.

Andrea and Peter Cahill thought it was their darkest moment. Still relative newlyweds, with budding careers and two toddlers, they confronted Andrea's third brain surgery in eighteen months. At age 32, she had lost her hearing completely, but profound deafness was only the initial act in a long-running saga. Her rare neurological disease with a clunky name, neurofibromatosis (aka NF2), would prove to be a formidable foe. But it did not drain the life from this vivacious young woman. Persevering every day for the next thirty-five years, Andrea overcame relentless obstacles to continue her teaching career, start a business, raise her family, and touch the lives of thousands of families, friends, students, and even strangers.

Silent Determination is part love story, medical mystery, how-to book for caretakers, and spiritual journey. A story of desperation and inspiration, soaring highs and gut-wrenching lows. Silent Determination will make you laugh, bring tears to your eyes, inspire you to make a difference, and remind you why faith, hope, and charity are considered the three most important virtues.