Books matching: chronic health issues

29 result(s)

Page 1
Showing 1 - 10 of 29 
  1. #1

    The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: A Hmong Child, Her American Doctors, and the Collision of Two Cultures by Anne Fadiman
    Save:

    'The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down: A Hmong Child, Her American Doctors, and the Collision of Two Cultures' by Anne Fadiman is a poignant exploration of the clash of cultures and beliefs that ensued when a young Hmong girl named Lia was diagnosed with severe epilepsy. Through a mix of storytelling, history, and cultural insights, the author delves into the challenges faced by both the Hmong immigrant family and the California doctors involved in Lia's care. Fadiman skillfully presents the complexities of the situation, shedding light on the misunderstandings, communication failures, and deeply rooted cultural differences that impacted the child's medical treatment.

    The narrative of 'The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down' is structured to provide a comprehensive view of the story, alternating between recounting the history of the Hmong people and detailing Lia's journey through the medical and foster care systems. Fadiman's writing style is empathetic, thought-provoking, and deeply researched, offering readers a glimpse into the struggles faced by both the caregivers and the family as they navigate the complexities of Western medicine and traditional Hmong beliefs in the pursuit of healing for Lia.

    If Lia Lee had been born in the highlands of northwest Laos, where her parents and twelve of her brothers and sisters were born, her mother would have squatted on the floor of the house that her fathe...

  2. #2

    Alex: The Life of a Child by Frank Deford
    Save:

    'Alex: The Life of a Child' by Frank Deford is a heartbreaking and beautifully written memoir that portrays the short but impactful life of a young girl named Alex who battled cystic fibrosis. Through the eyes of her father, the author, readers are taken on a journey that delves into the emotional and psychological aspects of having a child with a chronic illness, highlighting the challenges faced by the entire family. The narrative not only focuses on Alex's struggles with her disease but also showcases her vibrant personality, her love for beauty and jewelry, her ability to mimic, and her deep discussions about life, death, God, and Heaven.

    Even now, so long after she died, even now it’s still difficult to go through all the little objects of her life that she left behind. There is not that much that a child leaves, and Alex lived such a...

  3. #3

    Meaty by Samantha Irby
    Save:

    'Meaty' by Samantha Irby is a collection of essays that showcase the author's unique candor, humor, and honesty. The book covers a wide range of topics including the author's struggles with IBS, modern dating, financial issues, and personal hardships. Irby's writing style is described as funny, real, and down-to-earth, making readers both laugh out loud and feel deeply moved by her stories. The essays in 'Meaty' are a mix of hilarious anecdotes, personal reflections, and candid observations on life, presented in a refreshing and relatable manner.

    Oh, hi. This restaurant you picked intimidates me. I am not wearing the right footwear for a place this goddamned fancy, and I am probably too poor to eat here in real life so I am really hoping that ...

  4. The Invisible Kingdom by Meghan O'Rourke is a collection of essays and reflections on the author's struggles with a difficult-to-diagnose chronic illness. The book delves into the challenges faced by individuals dealing with chronic health issues, the dismissive attitude of some medical professionals, the complexities of diagnosing diseases like Lyme disease, and the impact of chronic illness on one's life and relationships.

    Through a blend of personal narrative and research, Meghan O'Rourke paints a vivid picture of the invisible chronic illness experience, offering insights into the physical and emotional toll of living with a long-term health condition. The book also explores the societal expectations placed on those suffering from chronic illnesses and challenges the notion that there is redemption or wisdom to be gained through suffering.


  5. Donna Jackson Nakazawa's book 'Childhood Disrupted: How Your Biography Becomes Your Biology, and How You Can Heal' delves into the profound impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on physical and mental health in later life. Through real-life stories and scientific research, Nakazawa highlights the connection between childhood trauma and the development of illnesses such as autoimmune disorders. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how childhood trauma can lead to DNA changes, inflammation, and ultimately, health issues in adulthood. Nakazawa's writing style is engaging and informative, offering strategies for healing and reversing the effects of ACEs, making the book a valuable resource for trauma sufferers and those interested in the mind-body connection.

    If you saw Laura walking down the New York City street where she lives today, you’d see a well-dressed forty-six-year-old woman with auburn hair and green eyes who exudes a sense of “I matter here.” S...

  6. #6

    By Pain of Death by Suzanne Clay
    Save:

    'By Pain of Death' by Suzanne Clay is a novella that offers a unique perspective on the myth of Hades and Persephone. The story follows Hades, burdened by his responsibilities and the pain he carries, as he meets Seph, a character who is struggling to meet expectations and finds solace in their unlikely friendship turned romantic relationship. Clay's writing style is praised for its poetic and simplistic nature, creating a vivid and emotional landscape that delves into themes of love, chronic pain, and transness.


  7. #7

    Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard
    Save:

    Pilgrim at Tinker Creek by Annie Dillard is a collection of meditations on nature, spirituality, and the human experience. The book takes readers on a journey through the author's observations and reflections on the beauty and brutality of the natural world around Tinker Creek in Virginia. Dillard's writing style is described as poetic, introspective, and deeply insightful, as she delves into themes of wonder, awe, and the interconnectedness of all living beings.

    The book is a blend of personal narrative, philosophical musings, and detailed observations of the flora and fauna in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Dillard's prose is praised for its vivid imagery, lyrical quality, and ability to evoke a sense of reverence for the mysteries of the universe. Through her contemplations on nature, she invites readers to see the world through her eyes and find meaning in the intricate tapestry of life on Earth.

    I used to have a cat, an old fighting tom, who would jump through the open window by my bed in the middle of the night and land on my chest. I’d half-awaken. He’d stick his skull under my nose and pur...

  8. #8

    When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
    Save:

    In "When Breath Becomes Air" by Paul Kalanithi, readers are taken on a poignant journey through the author's experiences as a neurosurgeon facing a terminal cancer diagnosis. The book beautifully captures Kalanithi's reflections on life, death, and the pursuit of meaning amidst his battle with illness. Through eloquent writing and a blend of medical insights, personal anecdotes, and literary references, Kalanithi shares his profound thoughts on mortality, resilience, and the importance of living purposefully even in the face of imminent death.

    PAUL DIED ON MONDAY, March 9, 2015, surrounded by his family, in a hospital bed roughly two hundred yards from the labor and delivery ward where our daughter, Cady, had entered the world eight months ...

  9. #9

    The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating by Elisabeth Tova Bailey
    Save:

    'The Sound of a Wild Snail Eating' by Elisabeth Tova Bailey is a contemplative memoir about the author's experience with a debilitating illness that leaves her bedridden. During this time, a friend brings her a wild snail, which becomes her companion and source of fascination. Bailey's observations of the snail's slow movements and her research on snails in general provide insights into life, nature, and the human condition. The book beautifully intertwines the author's reflections on her illness with her deep connection to the tiny creature living by her bedside, creating a quiet and introspective narrative that captivates readers.

    The writing style of the book is described as stunning, thoughtful, and charming, with the author's ability to use words to leave a profound impact on the reader. The book delves into the minutiae of the snail's life, offering unexpected revelations about the beauty and complexity of these creatures. Bailey's exploration of the snail's world serves as a metaphor for finding meaning and solace in the midst of adversity, making the book a poignant and enlightening read.

    IN EARLY SPRING, a friend went for a walk in the woods and, glancing down at the path, saw a snail. Picking it up, she held it gingerly in the palm of her hand and carried it back toward the studio wh...

  10. #10
    Healing Hearts
    Book 2 in the series:Savage Wells

    Healing Hearts - Savage Wells by Sarah M. Eden
    Save:

    "Healing Hearts" by Sarah M. Eden is a historical romance set in the small town of Savage Wells, Wyoming, in 1876. The story follows Miriam Bricks, a nurse who arrives in town expecting a new job but finds herself unexpectedly at her own wedding to Dr. Gideon MacNamara. As Miriam and Gideon navigate their new relationship, secrets from Miriam's past threaten to unravel their budding romance. The book delves into themes of mental illness, epilepsy, stigmas, and the challenges faced by individuals in the late 19th century. Eden's writing style is described as charming, touching, and reminiscent of a Hallmark movie, with well-developed characters and a mix of romance and humor.

    Miriam Bricks sat in the cramped and rancid interior of a rickety stagecoach and contemplated for the hundredth time how fortunate she was to be there. In many ways, being pressed between two passenge...

Page 1 of 3Next Page