Good Lookin' Man Like Me: A Luminous Portrait of a Life That Transcends Constraints

Wendell “Wendy” Jacobson is a true American character. Born with an innate curiosity and a fascination for cars, he was also born with not one but three handicaps (cerebral palsy, osteomyelitis, and epilepsy) and has intrigued many with his unique brand of joie de vivre. A testimonial to the resilience of the human spirit, a handbook for interpersonal relationships, and a call to compassion for those among us who are disabled, Lyle Jacobson’s debut is a heartwarming journey with a spirit so powerful you can’t help but be forever affected. Jacobson’s well-developed biographical sketch of his brother Wendy demonstrates a very unique phenomenon among developmentally disabled people, especially those afflicted with cerebral palsy: a man living successfully into his seventies. The fact he is afflicted with three handicaps makes his story even more amazing. The truth behind Wendy’s life is one filled with acceptance and love, producing a long, fulfilling life for someone who would often be marginalized in today’s society. Historical and personal experiences in his life highlight some of the unique qualities that have developed in Wendy and give insights into some of the life lessons these qualities teach. Encouraging families and individuals to appreciate and value developmentally disabled people, Jacobson’s inspirational portrayal of his brother is nothing short of joyous. It is true that life is what you make of it, and for Wendy Jacobson, his family has shown that even the most challenging lives can be made into wondrous experiences full of love and connection. The most spiritually uplifting book you will ever read, Good Lookin’ Man Like Me will leave you smiling long after you have read the final page.

Lyle Jacobson received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Biola University, and a Master of Divinity degree from Denver Seminary. Following twenty-one years in pastoral ministry in Illinois, Massachusetts, and California, he managed an office furniture store, worked as behaviorist in an obesity treatment center, and then worked for seventeen years as a test and balance technician in the commercial HVAC industry. He has a lifetime of exposure to developmentally disabled persons, and has witnessed first-hand the impact of family and community on producing a successful life for his seventy-year-old disabled brother. Jacobson is in daily contact with his brothers, Ralph and Wendy, and serves as Wendy's financial caretaker. He and his wife, Diann, are retired and live in Northern California. Together they have four daughters, four granddaughters, and three grandsons.