Crushed But Not Destroyed is a poignant accident memoir that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through Richard Kojo Acheampong’s life-changing experiences. Richard, a young man bursting with dreams, finds his world abruptly shattered when a devastating car accident leaves him physically and emotionally scarred.
The memoir chronicles Richard’s life before the accident – his aspirations, relationships, and unwavering pursuit of his dreams. A dream to change his family’s social and economic circumstances and chat a path for those who will come after him. Then, in a heart-wrenching twist of fate, a tragic car accident leaves him struggling to regain his physical but also his belief in God. The accident temporarily robs him of his mobility, as he suffers a foot amputation, forcing him to confront the limitations of his body and redefine his understanding of self-worth as he manoeuvres his body mechanics through a prosthetic foot.
Richard Kojo was trapped in the hostile United Kingdom immigration system and had to endure the harsh realities of being an immigrant threatened with deportation many times while still in hospital. Problems buffeted him from many angles, but his inner strength never wavered.
Through the pages of his memoir, Richard reflects on the complexity of his emotions – the frustration, anger, and moments of despair – and the unexpected friendships that form in the most unlikely places. Through these connections, he begins to reshape his perspective on life, love, and happiness. Richard’s journey of healing is a testament to the power of the human spirit to rise above adversity and emerge stronger, more compassionate, and ultimately, more whole.
