Jonathan an inspiration to us all as he launches second book

Jonathan Fisher, a South Eastern Regional College (SERC) student from Lisburn, who defied medical predictions to survive a rare condition which left him paralysed, has written his second book ‘Ten Minutes on Mars’. The book is a collection of eighteen short stories, with frightening tales of thrilling science-fiction.

The author is holding a book signing at the Lisburn Eason Store on January 14. The book was officially launched in November. At the age of only twenty-two Jonathan almost died. Well, he did die. He became disabled as a result of an undiagnosed Addisonian crisis. Jonathan was left comatose, speechless, paralysed, brain-damaged and given up for dead.

Jonathan refuses to allow his condition to get the better of him and through ruthless determination and courage has regained many of the skills lost as a result of the disease.

Having already cheated death, writing books is one of the many challenges Jonathan has taken ‘in his stride’ – a phrase which is not inappropriate as walking again is another mountain Jonathan is determined to conquer and a goal towards which he is making progress.

Jonathan’s journey has been long and laborious but Jonathan said he was determined to share his experiences with others.

Jonathan explains: “One of my goals in life was to become an author. I have now achieved that. The other is to walk again. I am making slow but steady progress towards achieving that goal.”

Jonathan said: “Books are unique, organic entities – you can’t experience the sheer thrill of turning a page and revealing the beautiful magic on the other side of a real book –  something that can’t be experienced on mobile devices. I would encourage students to read more real, hardcopy books!”

“Thanks must go to my best friend Paul Malone who designed the creative front cover.”

His first book ‘August Always’, his memoir, took the author 17 years to write – a testament to Jonathan’s endurance and dedication.

Jonathan would like to thank his tutors at SERC for their on-going help and support. During his time at SERC he has met lifelong friends and is really enjoying his painting for pleasure course.

Ten Minutes on Mars is available from Eason’s Bow Street Lisburn.