Multiple Sclerosis Q & A: Reassuring Answers to Frequently Asked Questions by Beth Praed

by Beth Praed

This comprehensive yet accessible work provides authoritative and reassuring answers to the many questions that overwhelm those undergoing testing and treatment for multiple sclerosis. It discusses traditional and complementary therapies for MS; explains medical terminology and diagnostics; and compassionately addresses the lifestyle changes many patients face while learning to manage this chronic and potentially debilitating disorder.Author Beth Ann Hill, who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1999, has become a tireless patient advocate active in the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Genres: Health, Nonfiction

Paperback

First published November 10, 2003

About the author

Beth Praed’s first book (written under the name Hill) quickly rose to be the #1 book on MS at Amazon for six years.

Now her 5th book, "So You Have a Disease: Devotions and Stories To Restore Hope" has won the Best Book Award in the gift book category!

Praed’s book, "So You Have a Disease: Devotions and Stories To Restore Hope", addresses the difficulties of living with a disease and it offers God’s hope with it’s inspiring stories.

In their review, Book Excellence says,

"A startling and tender book about illness, family, self-discovery and hope. Author, Beth Praed presents a raw and riveting account of life with MS that shines in its authenticity and grace. Each section is warm in tone and heartfelt, with a pearl of inspiration to clutch within each touching tale.

Short sections make it difficult to put down, and easy to revisit. The inspirational sections seem to effortlessly penetrate the spaces of the psyche most in need. There is a wide and inclusive range of influences to lift the spirit, alongside Christian teachings. It is introspective and deeply giving – with candid and vulnerable prose that helps to show from where one can draw their strength – even in the most hopeless and heartbreaking of situations.

This is a book that is sure to deliver on its desire to bring hope to readers."

Reviews

[Lynnea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book in one sitting. It wasn't all that informative but it was very reassuring (as the subtitle says). It is always good to hear/read someone else's story to reassure yourself that you are not crazy and that MS just is a crazy disease. Thanks for sharing your story, Beth Ann!

Another review I wrote for my blog: There wasn't a lot of new information here for me but it truly was a REASSURING book. The author has MS and tells her story with a very positive outlook. The questions are all answered simply (unlike more medical based books) and would be good for those who want to learn about MS without getting into the complicated neurology of it.
At the end of the book she has lists of suggestions for friends and family of MS patients. Here are my favorites (in no particular order) combined from both lists:

Don't use platitudes like "God never gives you more than you can handle" or "God gave you this because you are a special person."
Don't always ask, "How are you feeling?" Your friend is more than her MS. She is still the same person you know and love. Her MS is only a small part of her identity.
Educate yourself on the disease.
Don't assume that because she looks okay, she feels okay. MS is often invisible to everyone except the sufferer.

[Melissa Bond · Rating 3 out of 5]

An informative and basic approach for mostly new patients, or potential patients, facing the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. Having lived with a progressive form of MS with curious symptoms that even baffle my neurologists, for almost a decade, the majority of the information in this book was already known. However, I did learn something new, especially new drug treatments that are showing progress in slowing the progression of the disease that I will most definitely bring to the attention of my doctors. However, if you are wanting definitive answers of the how's and why's of the disease, you are not going to find them here because you can't find them anywhere, but this has to be the best and most gentle book in opening up the uncertain future for the newly diagnosed. I say gentle because of the personal nature the author takes of retelling the experiences of dealing with different testing procedures, and even symptoms of the disease, are really and truly like for someone living with the disease.

[Erin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not really very informative.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book especially for those who have been newly diagnosed with MS.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Also a great book with alot of info. Not a warm and fuzzy book, but I learned alot.

[Katey · Rating 1 out of 5]

Far too simplistic, and better, in-depth information can be found online.