Paolo Boccia, following the release of his book From My Point of View, spoke at the Palazzi Community Center on March 3, 2026 for the release of his newest book ConTatto (Contact). Located at the American University of Florence’s (AUF) campus on Via Ricasoli, the Palazzi Community Center (PCC) aims to provide education to the Florence community by hosting similar activities to this one. The PCC aims to boost and aid local artisans and creators in the local Florence community.

Boccia’s belief system is centered around his mission with work: listening and energy. These two main themes of ConTatto guide the readers through his approach to treating patients. He explores listening as a tactic to try and understand the deeper issues within his clients. He uses energy to transmit, receive and produce the cycle of rehabilitation by gaining his clients’ confidence back.

During the event, both his wife and childhood teacher were present, gleaming with pride, teary eyed, and holding on to the words he said dearly.  It was apparent he has made the most out of the challenges he has faced in his life, and had a great support system at the event celebrating him. The outdoor garden was a perfect close-knit circle allowing for Boccia to hear the crowd well, and feel more intimately connected with them. After the presentation, he attentively listened and shared stories with those who were more curious. Boccia gave careful time and consideration to each answer, being detailed and patient with students practicing the Italian language.

Boccia’s career as a physiotherapist began over 30 years ago when he worked for Centro Traumatologico Ortopedico (CTO) hospital in Florence. Now he has transitioned to his own private practice where he continues to connect with patients and advance his writing career.  During the presentation, Boccia told his tales of working and learning from his career from his patients. Boccia mentioned how much his life has changed since being involved in a motorcycle accident when he was younger, which left him visually impaired. This allowed him to learn how to “see” with his hands.

“I used to be a jerk. No, I used to be a rebel. I had long hair and an earring,” Boccia said. “And then, after the accident, I started looking at life from a different perspective, with a better perspective.” As a developing writer, Boccia shares his perspective on why being an author has been such a good life decision for him to take on.

 “Writing a book is good for yourself and if it is well-written, it is good for those who need to receive a positive message. And also, my story is very particular, but I can connect it to any difficulty someone may have,” Boccia stated.

“For me it is a true mission and because if I make someone feel good, I feel good. If a person is feeling well after a treatment, I am feeling well too” said Boccia. “Having been sick before, having suffered before, when you hit rock bottom you have to find a way to come back up from under water to breathe. And this is how once you reach the surface you then have to swim to get to the shore.”

Upon conversing with Boccia, he has seen this principal come into effect, time and time again with his clients. They must always find their motivation to be able to “swim to the shore” whilst they are in recovery, in order to fully heal both internally and externally.

Boccia shared his inspiration for his next book with the audience. “To speak up for women. Passion for my work and therefore the desire to put everything in writing. And because I think you should always write something you know well,” Boccia said.

These intimate community center events allow for both students and local residents, more opportunities to engage with local creators and hear from more personal and unique perspectives, Boccia being one of many. Audience engagement is always encouraged, especially with students who are learning and practicing their Italian. These events are free and typically have sign up options in order to prepare for how many attendees will be there. The full calendar and set of events in the areas of book readings/presentations, Made in Florence (local, economical presentation with products), Adopt a Plant, and Art Seminars can be found on the Palazzi Community Center website below.