This is the story of a woman with a bad heart who was able to overcome all challenges with tenacity and a good heart. Emily Falcon is a gifted storyteller. The story is packed with action. It is a reminder to value every single day, hour, minute.

Dr. Marius Stan, scientist, author, and actor (Breaking Bad)

Perseverance, determination, and a positive attitude toward oneself and the ability to seize opportunity are just a few takeaways from Emily's personal and heartwarming story.

Jack Fleming, President and CEO, Boston Athletic Association

The message of hope and empowerment is at the heart of Emily Falcon's memoir. One of the most compelling aspects is her candid and introspective reflection on the impact of her physical limitations on her life. Through her personal experiences, she provides valuable insights into patients living with chronic illness, offering a helpful resource for families, caregivers, and physicians seeking to understand the patient's point of view better. It is impossible not to root for this firm, determined, hopeful author. She refuses to stay down. She lifts off the weight that presses her down, says, "I can become the architect of my life despite the odds," and does just that. From the Sidelines to the Finish Line is filled with manifold lessons for readers. This memoir is a soul-stirring and uplifting story that celebrates the author's courage and choice to live fully in the face of adversity. Falcon's compelling narrative and heartfelt reflections will move readers deeply.

Readers' Favorite Book Review

Emily takes the reader into her tumultuous health journey, which placed her on the sidelines. It culminates in her ability to move from the sidelines into the path of active participation. I shed tears when she described her many experiences with failed cardioversions and ablations and could not begin to imagine the anxiety and frustration that she endured. I rejoice with her now that she can move from the sidelines to the finish line of almost everything.

Daphne Davis-Patrick, DNP, Author, Educator, Inspirational Speaker

A powerful, personal story of a woman fighting for independence and happiness. It's difficult to talk openly about one's fears and self-conscious feelings. Emily lets us know exactly what she was feeling. She lets us inside the experience of living with chronic illness.

Frank Jaworski, CRNA, father to an adult born with congenital heart disease (CHD)

I love the uplifting message of this book. It's so good to have this out there for people who feel their problems are just too much to overcome. Emily is very relatable to anyone who's struggled with long-term health issues.

Hope Angelina, author, The Story of Hope: A Mother and Transdaughter's Odyssey of Rediscovery, to be published in 2024; adult with CHD

As a heart patient myself, I felt like I was gaining a friend while reading Emily's book. She described the life and emotions of a heart warrior so well! I was very touched by Emily's story.

Lauren Elizabeth, author, Lessons from a Broken Heart, to be published in 2024; graphic designer; adult with CHD

This is a story of a woman and her team of caregivers' amazing journey of multiple medical challenges and her successes over them. Emily is a role model for all who face and overcome challenges. Having cared for hundreds of adults with CHD I still found the final race description to be very impactful and I will admit it brought me to tears.

Disty Pearson, PA-C