“Jeremy Renner” by Eva Rinaldi is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Editor’s note: This book review features the experience of author and actor Jeremy Renner. While he did not use the Ticket to Work Program, a federal Social Security disability benefit that supports returning to work, he writes about many of the same goals and themes that Allsup Employment Services (AES) customers experience on a daily basis. With the free support of vocational professionals at Social Security-authorized Employment Networks like AES – those looking to rejoin the workforce can persevere with help and encouragement on their return-to-work journey.
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Jeremy Renner must have wished he had Hawkeye’s (his Marvel character’s) rocket arrows to fly him to safety on New Year’s Day 2023. A serious snowcat accident left Renner in critical condition with a long road to recovery.
His new book, My Next Breath, recounts his recovery and the support system that helped him persevere.
Experiencing a life-changing disability can change someone’s priorities and how they move forward in their life. His story is a real-world experience that many of Allsup Employment Services customers can relate to and understand.
Importance Of Family And Support
Jeremy Renner shares in detail how he would have never survived the accident or the recovery, without the support of his family. The quick actions of his nephew allowed Renner to survive. He relied on family memories and life lessons to get through. The desire to help his family also fueled his recovery.
Many AES customers speak of their family and friends when managing their disability. They say family drives their desire to return to work, plus they are glad to have vocational experts available who become part of their support system.
The New Normal
Renner had the financial means to create a rehab facility in his house. While many individuals with a disability don’t follow that path, they can relate to the ongoing recovery that must happen each day.
Renner used different therapies to get back to daily living. He referenced being in the hospital, needing help to use the restroom or even to sit up. At home, Renner worked on being able to get out of bed, making meals and caring for his daughter.
He was used to performing his own stunts without restriction. Now, he needs some accommodations to handle his work, but he did not give up on his stunts or acting.
Renner is resilient, just like every individual we work with at AES.
Life-changing disability has an impact on individuals’ requirements for work. They may need to work differently, including a focus on accessibility and technology. They also may need guidance on how to request accommodations in the workplace.
Moving Forward & Focusing On What Truly Matters
A common theme in My Next Breath is Renner’s emotional state after the accident. In the face of ongoing setbacks, he manages to push through with the help of family, friends and determination. Anyone, including those with a disability, can feel the effects of negative thoughts and a despondent mindset. Life carries challenges.
By the end of his book, however, Renner is laser-focused on his values of family, love and giving back. While he continues acting for a living, Renner also began “Camp RennerVation,” a summer camp for foster children.
Throughout his recovery, he began to re-evaluate his priorities. He realized he was spending countless hours away from his daughter to film in faraway locations. After his accident, he renegotiated his terms to make sure if he was travelling, his daughter and family came along, or he simply worked closer to home.
While we’re waiting to see where Hawkeye’s next adventure lies, it’s clear that Renner knows that he’ll be moving forward confidently with a positive mindset and the help of family and friends.
It’s important to share stories like Renner’s as a reminder of the way that someone’s life changes from disability – while also continuing to provide many opportunities to contribute.
