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Incurable Optimist: Living with Illness and Chronic Hope
At twenty-two, Jennifer Cramer-Miller was thrilled with her new job, charming boyfriend, and Seattle apartment. Then she received a devastating autoimmune diagnosis—and suddenly, rather than planning for a bright future, she found herself soaking a hospital pillow with tears and grappling with words like “progressive” and “incurable.”
That day, Cramer-Miller unwillingly crossed over from wellness to chronic illness—from thriving to kidney failure. Her chances of survival hinged upon on the expertise of doctors, the generosity of strangers, and the benevolence of loved ones. But what kind of life would that be?
Spanning two-plus decades, this family love story explores loss and acceptance, moving forward with uncertainty, and forging a path to joy. Four kidney transplants later, Cramer-Miller is here to shine a bright light on people helping people in difficult times with a story that will make you want to hug the humans you love. Because sometimes it’s the sorrows that threaten to pull us apart that ultimately unite us in hope.
That day, Cramer-Miller unwillingly crossed over from wellness to chronic illness—from thriving to kidney failure. Her chances of survival hinged upon on the expertise of doctors, the generosity of strangers, and the benevolence of loved ones. But what kind of life would that be?
Spanning two-plus decades, this family love story explores loss and acceptance, moving forward with uncertainty, and forging a path to joy. Four kidney transplants later, Cramer-Miller is here to shine a bright light on people helping people in difficult times with a story that will make you want to hug the humans you love. Because sometimes it’s the sorrows that threaten to pull us apart that ultimately unite us in hope.
360 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2023
17 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Cramer-Miller
3 books11 followersJennifer Cramer-Miller is an author, advocate, and joy scouter. As the board chair for the Minnesota National Kidney Foundation and a Donate Life ambassador, her writing topics focus on hope, managing uncertainty, and finding joy.
She is the author of Incurable Optimist: Living with Illness and Chronic Hope, pub date: August 15th, 2023.
You'll find her published work in Brevity Blog, Star Tribune, MN Physician, The Sunlight Press, Mamalode, The Mighty, The Erma Bombeck Blog, The Kindness Blog, and as a regular contributor to the National Kidney Foundation Kidney Stories Newsletter.
She is the author of Incurable Optimist: Living with Illness and Chronic Hope, pub date: August 15th, 2023.
You'll find her published work in Brevity Blog, Star Tribune, MN Physician, The Sunlight Press, Mamalode, The Mighty, The Erma Bombeck Blog, The Kindness Blog, and as a regular contributor to the National Kidney Foundation Kidney Stories Newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 22, 2023
TITLE: INCURABLE OPTIMIST Living with Illness and Chronic Hope
AUTHOR: Jennifer Cramer Miller
PUB DATE: 08.15.2023 Now Available
Finding hope and joy is Jennifer Cramer-Miller’s specialty, even though at twenty two as she is just starting with her life, she finds out the she has a progressive and incurable devastating autoimmune diagnosis. Instead of giving up and cowering to let the disease win, she turns her life to helping others, finding inner peace and acceptance, and always moving forward.
As a nurse and someone with chronic illness, I enjoy reading these stories that continue to feed my soul - this is a must read for people going through health issues, those living with chronic illness, and of course a must read for all medical professionals in order to be that shining light of hope and joy.
AUTHOR: Jennifer Cramer Miller
PUB DATE: 08.15.2023 Now Available
Finding hope and joy is Jennifer Cramer-Miller’s specialty, even though at twenty two as she is just starting with her life, she finds out the she has a progressive and incurable devastating autoimmune diagnosis. Instead of giving up and cowering to let the disease win, she turns her life to helping others, finding inner peace and acceptance, and always moving forward.
As a nurse and someone with chronic illness, I enjoy reading these stories that continue to feed my soul - this is a must read for people going through health issues, those living with chronic illness, and of course a must read for all medical professionals in order to be that shining light of hope and joy.
April 17, 2023
Beyond inspiring- a page turner that reveals the resilience of the human spirit surrounded by unconditional love & support. Great read.
August 24, 2023
I'm always honored to be on Suzy approved book tours. She has books that I would not normally read. And a lot of them I enjoy and I'm happy that I read them. This is one of those books. If you are looking for a good read for a cool afternoon this is one you might just want to grab a copy of.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
October 9, 2023
I enjoyed hearing a story about a situation that is near to my heart! I learned so much about what life can look like when you're diagnosed with kidney failure and in need of a transplant. I enjoyed Jennifer's writing style and honesty.
October 7, 2025
I really loved this book! The author seems so genuine and thoughtful, and I love her ability to contextualize things historically but keep it light. Her journey was incredible, and I felt like I was there every step of the way.
Some more of my favorite quotes:
“I wanted to tell her that the challenges I've endured scooped a piece out of me, but the hole has filled with a fierce appreciation for being here.”
“Kidneys equaled hope.”
Some more of my favorite quotes:
“I wanted to tell her that the challenges I've endured scooped a piece out of me, but the hole has filled with a fierce appreciation for being here.”
“Kidneys equaled hope.”
October 31, 2023
This was such an incredible memoir of a college-going girl – Jennifer who learns that she has a chronic autoimmune condition where her kidneys are failing. What follows is the next two decades of her battle with this disease, ranging from scans, biopsies, dialysis, and multiple transplant surgeries, and how all of this impacted her and her family.
With the constant uncertainty of getting a kidney transplant, infections, motherhood, staying in hospital for months, uncertain future and so much more – it’s incredible how she maintained such optimism and strength throughout. And how despite her sickness, she built her dream life – a supportive partner, a loving daughter, a supportive circle of family and friends, fulfilling work, a lovely home, and an adorable dog.
Her tenacity to live and courage is beyond words. I cannot even begin to imagine what it is like to lose organs and hang on to the hope of getting the right donor match.
This is a tale of quiet heroism, told modestly. It gives a first-hand perspective on living with a life-threatening illness and why hope is so important. It teaches us how to live life to the fullest no matter how shitty the circumstances are. It will help you to find the silver lining in life.
With the constant uncertainty of getting a kidney transplant, infections, motherhood, staying in hospital for months, uncertain future and so much more – it’s incredible how she maintained such optimism and strength throughout. And how despite her sickness, she built her dream life – a supportive partner, a loving daughter, a supportive circle of family and friends, fulfilling work, a lovely home, and an adorable dog.
Her tenacity to live and courage is beyond words. I cannot even begin to imagine what it is like to lose organs and hang on to the hope of getting the right donor match.
This is a tale of quiet heroism, told modestly. It gives a first-hand perspective on living with a life-threatening illness and why hope is so important. It teaches us how to live life to the fullest no matter how shitty the circumstances are. It will help you to find the silver lining in life.
September 23, 2023
Such a brave and inspiring memoir! At only twenty-two years of age, Jennifer was diagnosed with an auto-immune disease that had damaged her kidneys.
Although she had to put many things on hold while she went through treatments - which caused her to gain weight, lose her hair, and her face to swell - she stayed amazingly positive!
It was wonderful that Jennifer had supportive parents, and it was interesting how they tried alternatives in hopes of finding something, anything that would work - (I’ve been down that road).
Eventually, Jennifer faced four kidney transplants.
Jennifer walks us through her journey with honesty, compassion, and even humor. Whether or not you’ve faced illness - we’ve all faced adversity of some sort. And this is a wonderful reminder that positivity and optimism will take us farther.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @jennifercramermiller for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
Although she had to put many things on hold while she went through treatments - which caused her to gain weight, lose her hair, and her face to swell - she stayed amazingly positive!
It was wonderful that Jennifer had supportive parents, and it was interesting how they tried alternatives in hopes of finding something, anything that would work - (I’ve been down that road).
Eventually, Jennifer faced four kidney transplants.
Jennifer walks us through her journey with honesty, compassion, and even humor. Whether or not you’ve faced illness - we’ve all faced adversity of some sort. And this is a wonderful reminder that positivity and optimism will take us farther.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @jennifercramermiller for a spot on tour and a gifted book.
September 24, 2023
Jennifer tells her story of finding out when she was 22 years old that she had an autoimmune disease called FSGS. As part of that, she suffered from kidney failure due to her kidneys leaking out proteins.
I thought Jennifer did an excellent job in this memoir, sharing not only her physical journey but also her emotional feelings at each stage of her life.
Jennifer had wildly supportive parents and husband which really warmed my heart.
She explains the medical part of her journey simply. I learned a lot about dialysis, the diet of a person with her condition, and kidney transplants (Jennifer has had four to date).
I will say I did chuckle and cry many times at the same time during this memoir as Jennifer’s attitude of gratitude remained steadfast even when she was at some low points physically.
This is a great read to give support for those that deal with chronic illness. It also brings to light how a person’s mindset can make hard things a little less challenging.
I thought Jennifer did an excellent job in this memoir, sharing not only her physical journey but also her emotional feelings at each stage of her life.
Jennifer had wildly supportive parents and husband which really warmed my heart.
She explains the medical part of her journey simply. I learned a lot about dialysis, the diet of a person with her condition, and kidney transplants (Jennifer has had four to date).
I will say I did chuckle and cry many times at the same time during this memoir as Jennifer’s attitude of gratitude remained steadfast even when she was at some low points physically.
This is a great read to give support for those that deal with chronic illness. It also brings to light how a person’s mindset can make hard things a little less challenging.
June 15, 2023
Thank you #Netgalley for the advanced copy!
Wow, wow, wow! Jennifer was busy living her life right after college, got a great intern role, apartment with her bff and a great BF. When suddenly out of nowhere, Jennifer began to not feel well, she was feeling "squishy". When she eventually went to the doctor she learned that her kidneys were failing her. No family history, completely out of nowhere. We then follow the next two decades of her dealing with this sudden chronic disease, ranging from scans, biopsies, dialysis and multiple transplant surgeries while ultimately keeping an optimistic mindset. Her outlook on life and her diagnosis is something that others can learn from, she tried not to let it hinder her life and to be thankful for her life.
Wow, wow, wow! Jennifer was busy living her life right after college, got a great intern role, apartment with her bff and a great BF. When suddenly out of nowhere, Jennifer began to not feel well, she was feeling "squishy". When she eventually went to the doctor she learned that her kidneys were failing her. No family history, completely out of nowhere. We then follow the next two decades of her dealing with this sudden chronic disease, ranging from scans, biopsies, dialysis and multiple transplant surgeries while ultimately keeping an optimistic mindset. Her outlook on life and her diagnosis is something that others can learn from, she tried not to let it hinder her life and to be thankful for her life.
August 10, 2023
(Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours, @shewritespress, and @jennifercramermiller for the #gifted copy)
This was such an incredible memoir about the author’s battle with kidney disease, several transplants, and how all of this impacted her and her family.
I really enjoyed reading this memoir - it was emotional and made me tear up at times (especially some of the parts on motherhood). I applaud the author’s strength in sharing her story and emphasizing the importance of being an organ donor! She also showed such optimism and strength at times that seemed so challenging.
I highly recommend this memoir to gain a better understanding of the struggles of chronic illness and why hope is so important.
This was such an incredible memoir about the author’s battle with kidney disease, several transplants, and how all of this impacted her and her family.
I really enjoyed reading this memoir - it was emotional and made me tear up at times (especially some of the parts on motherhood). I applaud the author’s strength in sharing her story and emphasizing the importance of being an organ donor! She also showed such optimism and strength at times that seemed so challenging.
I highly recommend this memoir to gain a better understanding of the struggles of chronic illness and why hope is so important.
August 26, 2023
Incurable Optimist: Living with Illness and Chronic Hope by Jennifer Cramer-Miller is an excellent memoir. The author has a chronic kidney disease. The story is about her illness and how it affects her life.
The author has such hope and optimism. I personally have a chronic illness and I commend the author for her positive attitude. I live daily with my illness, and I am not optimistic or filled with hope.
I was really happy to see chronic illness to be the center of this book and bring this topic forward.
The author is very strong and talks about the importance of donating organs.
I think that this is a fantastic, honest memoir worth reading.
The author has such hope and optimism. I personally have a chronic illness and I commend the author for her positive attitude. I live daily with my illness, and I am not optimistic or filled with hope.
I was really happy to see chronic illness to be the center of this book and bring this topic forward.
The author is very strong and talks about the importance of donating organs.
I think that this is a fantastic, honest memoir worth reading.
March 8, 2024
Honest and heartfelt memoir by a kidney patient who was tenacious and hopeful. The ups and downs were combated with optimism.Not the Pollyanna type, but the down to earth kind of optimism.
I have to believe optimism played a part in her journey through kidney failure, dialysis, and transplant. Alongside good health care, family and friends support, and federal financial coverage all contributed to her positively. Top it off with tenacity,hope, love, then a little luck, and the stars lined up.
It is never one one ingredient that makes a dish good but rather several. Don't forget the secret ingredient. I propose the secret ingredient in this case is optimism.
I have to believe optimism played a part in her journey through kidney failure, dialysis, and transplant. Alongside good health care, family and friends support, and federal financial coverage all contributed to her positively. Top it off with tenacity,hope, love, then a little luck, and the stars lined up.
It is never one one ingredient that makes a dish good but rather several. Don't forget the secret ingredient. I propose the secret ingredient in this case is optimism.
September 12, 2023
A moving and very inspirational memoir of the author being diagnosed at age twenty-two with an autoimmune disease and the choice of giving up or living life to the fullest. The book spans two decades, four kidney transplants later and her ability to remain positive and focus on what is important. The love of family and friends and living life. This was so inspiring and uplifting. I have several health issues and this really made me realize just how important it is to remain positive and make the most out of life. Such a deeply felt story.
Dawnny Ruby
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
December 28, 2023
This was a true story about a woman who has sudden onset kidney failure at 22. She has been through so much, including several kidney transplants and months of surviving on dialysis. Despite all of this she does not feel sorry for herself or spend time contemplating why me. Jennifer gets married to a man who falls in love with her despite her illness and hazy future. She has a baby, almost dies from sepsis and just keeps on going. She also loves dogs and is very brave. Reading thus made me appreciative for all I have. If you are a complainer I think this book would help you complain less.
August 15, 2023
You can read Incurable Optimist in a few sittings, and if you're looking for a hopeful, moving, insightful memoir, then you should do just that. Cramer-Miller writes with humor and wisdom about having her life turned upside down at the age of 22 because of a rare kidney disease. Throughout her multiple kidney transplants, Cramer-Miller learns to much about life, strength, and hope -- and we get to learn along with her. I was inspired by the spirit and truth in this book.
September 9, 2023
GENRE: Memoir
RELEASE DATE: 8/15/23
Thank you
@jennifercramermiller & @suzyapprovedbooktours for my gifted book and my spot on the tour. My thoughts are my own.
Jennifer was just getting started with her adult life, when at 22 years old she was diagnosed with an incurable autoimmune disease. Grateful for the support of her loving parents and friends, Jennifer kept a positive outlook as she dealt with surgeries, dialysis, transplants, sepsis, and eventually marriage and family!
This is an interesting look at how being positive and maintaining a good attitude can have an impact on your health. This book is a must-read for anyone dealing with a chronic illness. I really enjoyed Jennifer’s story.
RELEASE DATE: 8/15/23
Thank you
@jennifercramermiller & @suzyapprovedbooktours for my gifted book and my spot on the tour. My thoughts are my own.
Jennifer was just getting started with her adult life, when at 22 years old she was diagnosed with an incurable autoimmune disease. Grateful for the support of her loving parents and friends, Jennifer kept a positive outlook as she dealt with surgeries, dialysis, transplants, sepsis, and eventually marriage and family!
This is an interesting look at how being positive and maintaining a good attitude can have an impact on your health. This book is a must-read for anyone dealing with a chronic illness. I really enjoyed Jennifer’s story.
September 19, 2023
I devoured this memoir. The cover and synopsis hooked me but it was Jennifer Cramer-Miller’s story that consumed me. It was emotional and enlightening. I received an auto-immune diagnosis at 40 and can only imagine how shocked she must have been to receive her diagnosis at 22. I was inspired by her attitude and determined spirit again and again. Her family’s love and support touched me repeatedly. Such a great read!
September 30, 2023
𝘔𝘰𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨, 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘶𝘭!
What a fantastic and inspiring story, just wow. I have so many emotions after finishing this book, what an uplifting story. I loved every page of it. All the stars.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours and She Writes Press for this tour invite.
𝗜𝗻𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘁 by Jennifer Cramer Miller released August 15, 2023.
𝗪𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗮 𝗯𝗶𝗴 𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗻?
https://www.instagram.com/booksandcof...
What a fantastic and inspiring story, just wow. I have so many emotions after finishing this book, what an uplifting story. I loved every page of it. All the stars.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours and She Writes Press for this tour invite.
𝗜𝗻𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘁 by Jennifer Cramer Miller released August 15, 2023.
𝗪𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗮 𝗯𝗶𝗴 𝗰𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝘀𝗺𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗻?
https://www.instagram.com/booksandcof...
July 13, 2024
Jennifer Cramer Miller writes about her path from young woman to mature wife and mother in the face of having kidney failure. She has an incredible knack of seeing the positives in her difficult struggle with kidney failure. Her personality allows her to always see the positives in her journey through life with kidney failure. Her story is an easy read about life with kidney failure. She chronicles her successes and failures as she moves through life. Enjoyable up dear book.
August 24, 2023
LOVED IT!!!!!!
Talk about seeing the glass half full - Jennifer’s story illustrates the power of positive thinking even in the toughest of circumstances. One doesn’t have to be chronically ill to gleam many useful life lessons from this book. Thanks Jennifer for sharing your life story in such a raw & humorous way. I can’t wait to see and hopefully read what you do next!
Talk about seeing the glass half full - Jennifer’s story illustrates the power of positive thinking even in the toughest of circumstances. One doesn’t have to be chronically ill to gleam many useful life lessons from this book. Thanks Jennifer for sharing your life story in such a raw & humorous way. I can’t wait to see and hopefully read what you do next!
September 10, 2023
This book is everything it promises; a frank discussion of living with chronic illness by a person who absolutely DECIDES to make lemonade out of the sourest of lemons. Enjoyed every sprightly moment.
December 29, 2023
I don’t know if it’s because I was laying in bed sick alll day, but this book hit me hard. I cried many times reading it, but I’m glad I read it. Makes me wonder why in the world anyone wouldn’t be an organ donor?
February 19, 2024
I honestly loved this book. Kudos to Jennifer Cramer-Miller for navigating her life with dignity, grace and love of life/family/experiences/friends. Plus, she's a good writer with a healthy dose of genuine humor. Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Author.
April 19, 2024
This story is a relief to anyone that has experienced chronic illness or walked with a loved one through it. While it can cause you to think about things you (or your loved one) have walked through, it's helpful to not feel alone.
June 23, 2024
Absolutely phenomenal. After being in the dark with some undiagnosed autoimmune illness and waiting for more specialists, this book was exactly what I needed to help me refocus on how to still “live” through this. I’m so glad she shared her story!
December 20, 2024
I hated it. Besides some inaccuracies that I suspect come from editing the story, I hate the philosophy behind this book. I'm on dialysis and have another view of life, the disease and the connection between the two.
December 16, 2025
Very encouraging for anyone facing chronic or an incurable illness. Her resilience and ability to find joy and gratitude is what makes her life beautiful even while going through extreme difficulties. Now if we could all have her spirit!
May 8, 2023
Amazing book. Well written and very informative. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Five stars! I felt like I was right there with her as she got her diagnosis and how she proceeded!
September 15, 2023
This is an amazing memoir of a woman facing an incurable illness with strength and faith. I highly recommend this. It's beautifully written and hard to put down. I loved it.
February 9, 2024
Memoir by woman who had multiple kidney transplants. More interesting as she lived in the Twin Cities.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews