Kicking Out at Two is not the most high profile wrestling book to be released in the last year, but it might be the most important.
Kicking Out at Two is a collaboration between eight wrestlers and compiled by Terra Callaway. It’s a book full of biographical stories with a common theme. All of the authors are professional wrestlers who battle depression on a daily basis.
“I wanted to provide something to people where they could see all different aspects and stories of depression in one place,” says Callaway, who also started the online resource Dropkick Depression. “Sure, some people know about my depression from one place and then may know about someone else from another place, but with it so scattered out, sometimes it’s hard to get a view of everything at once. I also wanted something people could physically see and feel in their hands. Somehow it makes it all feel a bit more real than just reading on the internet, you know?”
In addition to Terra, Kicking Out at Two features personal stories from fellow grapplers Billy Avery, Jeff Cannonball, Mickie Knuckles, Kerry Awful, Aria Blake, Angelus Layne, and P.T. Player. Callaway said she had no trouble finding men and women to speak out about their experience.
“Once I posted on the page that I was looking for people who wanted to share their stories, I got quite a few responses. Some weren’t as ready as others just yet to share so they’ve elected to do another book once it comes time for a second one. There are different stages in depression and some just need a little more time than others. I was incredibly proud of everyone who talked to me about it, even if they ended up not contributing, because it still shows they know they CAN talk about it if they want it. It shows they know they aren’t alone.”
Calloway hopes that readers will find stories they can relate to, stories that will help them realize they are not alone in their struggle. “Everyone has their own individual story and struggle, but we’re all in it together. Everything in this book is never before seen or told. So it’s definitely a different view of each individual that contributed.”
The response to the book has been incredibly positive. Readers have reached out through the Dropkick Depression Facebook to share their gratitude to the authors and thank them for speaking out. “It’s inspiring to see so many people band together for a common cause and it be so well loved. I’m incredibly happy with the reception so far.”
Kicking Out at Two is a must-read for any fan who has struggled with depression or has a loved one going through it. It’s a powerful statement to people with a real need. Said Callaway, “The whole goal of the book was to show those who suffer with depression or have sucidial thoughts that they aren’t alone and that there is always someone out there going through similar circumstances. If it helps one person speak out, ask for help, or take the steps to get help, then it was all worth it.”