RUMSON-FAIR HAVEN PLANS LEGRAND VISIT

By: REBECCA DESFOSSE

Just over two years ago, Eric LeGrand’s life changed in a flash.

During the fourth quarter of a football game against Army, LeGrand, a Rutgers University defensive lineman, suffered a catastrophic spinal-cord injury as a result of a head-first tackle. Paralyzed from the neck down, LeGrand began on an emotional journey of rehabilitation – determined to walk again.

In honor of LeGrand’s recently released memoir entitled “Believe,” River Road Books in Fair Haven and Rumson-Fair Haven Regional High will host a book talk on Monday, October 29.

Slated for 7 p.m. at the school, the event will feature LeGrand himself answering questions about his life, football career, and of course, his new book.

According to Laurie Potter, a co-owner of River Road Books, LeGrand has released not one, but two books: an adult memoir called “Believe: My Faith and the Tackle that Changed My Life,” and a youth version called “Believe: The Victorious Story of Eric LeGrand.”

The books chronicle LeGrand’s life from his childhood in Woodbridge through his accident and beyond. LeGrand’s relationship with his mother, his Rutgers coach, Greg Schiano, and his faith are at the heart of his story.

In addition, “Believe” offers readers insight into his grueling, transformative recovery thus far: according to reports, he has regained movement in his shoulders and sensation throughout his body.

River Road Books’ website describes “Believe” as  “a story of finding purpose in pain and facing setbacks with strength.”

LeGrand is now on his way to graduating from Rutgers. In a symbolic move, honoring LeGrand’s character and spirit, the Tampa Bay Bucaneers, where Schiano is now head coach, drafted him in May. In addition, LeGrand recently received the Unsung Hero Award by the New Jersey Hall of Fame and The Most Influential Person in New Jersey by the Star-Ledger.

Of LeGrand, Potter said he is “truly inspirational and has a tremendous story of perseverance.”

The event is free and copies of the book will be available for purchase. For more information, call River Road Books at 732-747-9455 or Mary Ann Kampfe, RFHRHS Public Relations, at [email protected] or 908-347-8885.