The Long Climb

How one man saved his life from addiction to a life defined by purpose and triumphant goals.
In this story of perseverance and the strength of the human spirit, Robert Woods recounts the painful years of his childhood, when he watched his parents recover from a challenging divorce while suffering his own horrendous abuse in secret. By opening up about his abuse and the many years of holding on to hatred and resentment that followed, Robert illustrates that no matter the circumstances, there is always hope.
From a high school dropout with a chip on his shoulder to a licensed NYS Education Supervisor with a PhD and an accomplished endurance athlete, Robert shares his story to inspire those who have nothing to lose. Because when you have nothing to lose, you have everything to gain.

Robert H. Woods is an author, speaker, accomplished endurance athlete, and retired educational administrator. He is a father of five and a grandfather of twelve. Robert holds a PhD in educational leadership, focused on transformative learning and synchronicity. In his athletic endeavors, Robert is inspired by athletes such as ultramarathoner Scott Jurek and professional cyclist Greg LeMond. As a survivor of childhood trauma and abuse, Robert's life ambition has been to offer hope, love, and support to children and adults who have endured the horrors of abuse and trauma.