Mistaken Identity: Two Families, One Survivor, Unwavering Hope

Don Ryn · Susie Ryn · Newell Cerak · Colleen Cerak

Mar 2008 · Simon and Schuster

About this ebook

In this harrowing true story of tragedy, faith, and fortitude, two families are joined by a twist of fate after a fatal car accident.

In 2006, five lives were lost in a tragic car accident. The sole survivor was rushed to the hospital, where she remained in a coma for five weeks. Everyone believed that Laura Van Ryn was in a coma, and that Whitney Cerak had died in the crash—until Whitney woke up.

This shocking case of mistaken identity stunned the country and made national news. Would it destroy a family? Shatter their faith? Push two families into bitterness, resentment, and guilt? In Mistaken Identity, the Van Ryn family and the Cerek family describe their ordeal and explore the bond sustaining and uniting them as they deal with their bizarre reversal of life lost and life found.

Ratings and reviews

This happened not too far from my house. As someone who is becoming a new mom, I couldn't imagine the pain. (WRITING FROM FIANCÉE ACT)

what a great book must have read it ovet 100 times God bless both families

Great book! Inspirational

About the author

The Van Ryn family -- Don, Susie, Lisa, Kenny, and Mark -- of Grand Rapids, Michigan shares an avid interest in outdoor recreation. Don and Susie, married for thirty years, are leaving their chosen professions to dedicate themselves full time to an outdoor camping experience for youth in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Lisa is pursuing a career in physical therapy, and Kenny lives and works in Southern California. Mark is recently married and resides in the Detroit area.

Despite the sorrow surrounding the passing of their daughter Laura,the family continues to be involved in the work of their local church and community.