Dizzy: A Fictional Memoir

On December 15, 2005, my life as I knew it changed forever. Diagnosed with bilateral vestibulopathy with oscillopsia, this is the same illness that Angie Styles, the lead character in Dizzy, develops. All symptoms, causes, diagnoses, treatments, and time lines mentioned are true.

My hope with this book is not only to entertain but also educate; bring awareness to this disease that affects hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. And if just one person suffering from these same symptoms reads Dizzy and realizes they are not alone, then my job is done.

With much gratitude I thank Dr. Neera Kapoor, Dr. Sujana S. Chandrasekhar, and James Gurley, my physical therapist. Each one of you helped to save my life and then taught me how to survive in my new one.

“Dizzy is an entertaining and realistic portrayal of the unique challenges faced by people suffering from inner ear balance
disorders. Mr. Wooten has captured the fear and frustration common among vestibular patients through his uplifting and often humorous story of Broadway actress, Angie Styles.”
– Veda, Vestibular Disorders Association

“Dizzy is a wonderfully told story with such great heart and humor.” – Peter Gregus, Broadway actor, writer, director, currently starring in Jersey Boys

Inspired by Arthur Wooten's life, Dizzy is a unique read in that it’s a fictional memoir that marries two genres: an exciting backstage show business tale coupled with a frightening
medical drama.

Angie Styles, a beloved Broadway star, is struck down at the height of her career by a mysterious disease and is forced to reexamine her life and the people in it as she fights to survive.

“As a therapist, I believe books like Dizzy are important. They introduce complex medical concepts in story form, allowing the reader to learn, grow and enjoy the process. This fictional memoir will give you belly laughs, inspire compassion and enrich your life.” – Pamela Milam, Therapist