The Gentle Giant and the Beauty Queen: And Their City of Steubenville, Ohio

The following story that I’m going to share is true. It illuminates the impossible that can become possible when there is:

• A loving and accepting family

• Mother’s and Grandmother’s prayers

• Strong presence of the Judeo Christian work ethic

• Attitudes of Victory vs. Victimhood

This is a story of love and the tragedy of others that made for this Developmentally Disabled couple’s independence. You’ll observe contrasting family attitudes and the unbelievable circumstances in others’ lives that are beyond comprehension. We’ll walk through some lives to celebrate their victories through love and determination.

You’ll cheer the contentment, happiness, and love of this special couple. But you’ll also be challenged as we see our own evaluations and prejudging of things and people that are different. This book makes all of us look at ourselves and question our own tolerance levels in many areas of life.

By the end of this story, most of you living in or visiting Steubenville, Ohio will think a little differently and smile as you see David (7’ tall) and Ruthy (5’ tall) sauntering down the sidewalk, holding hands as always.

You’ll be inspired by secrets of triumph over odds and you’ll feel the small victories and blessings that we should celebrate every day.

My hope is that your experience in reading this book will be as enjoyable as the laughs and tears I’ve experienced as I interviewed and met the remarkable characters that you’re about to meet in this true saga.

We may even have to ask, “Do we love enough? Do we have what it takes to make lemonade out of our lemons?”