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I'd Rather Be Working
Offers self-assessment exercises, real-life stories, legal information, job hints, and practical advice to help the disabled and chronically ill become financially independent.
252 pages, Paperback
First published July 15, 2002
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
June 11, 2008
I had some resistance to reading this book. It took a lot of work for me to accept that working is not in my best interests right now, due to my health, and I was afraid that this book would recommend / push work on me, or make me feel guilty for not working. I was totally wrong on that.
Gayle Backstrom, who herself has fibromyalgia, has written a clear book for those with chronic illness (CI) of any sort. It's labelled as "a step-to-step guide to financial self-support for people with [CI]," but it also works toward personal fulfillment and empowerment. Although some might use / need it for the financial side, Backstrom really understands that much of the struggle with CI is to feel like you are (still) contributing to society and enjoying life, while balancing the needs of your illness.
That being said - I read Part 1 straight through and appreciated it. When I got to Parts 2 and 3, I just skimmed until the end. This is where to book really focusses on getting you working - governmental resources, info on training, etc. Although at some point I might find this useful, it's not right for me at this time. The friend who recommended this to me has used Part 2 as a resource, which makes sense, since she's still able to work.
This is a great book for anyone with CI, or family members, to help with the careful balancing act. But I would recommend that you be confident of whether you want to / need to work before picking up the book.
Gayle Backstrom, who herself has fibromyalgia, has written a clear book for those with chronic illness (CI) of any sort. It's labelled as "a step-to-step guide to financial self-support for people with [CI]," but it also works toward personal fulfillment and empowerment. Although some might use / need it for the financial side, Backstrom really understands that much of the struggle with CI is to feel like you are (still) contributing to society and enjoying life, while balancing the needs of your illness.
That being said - I read Part 1 straight through and appreciated it. When I got to Parts 2 and 3, I just skimmed until the end. This is where to book really focusses on getting you working - governmental resources, info on training, etc. Although at some point I might find this useful, it's not right for me at this time. The friend who recommended this to me has used Part 2 as a resource, which makes sense, since she's still able to work.
This is a great book for anyone with CI, or family members, to help with the careful balancing act. But I would recommend that you be confident of whether you want to / need to work before picking up the book.
November 30, 2010
I never run out of wonderful things to discover in this book.
What a terrific gift Ms. Backstrom has given to us. Yes, I read it but I'll keep on re-reading it for a long, long time.
Very interesting that it's not 'dated', even tho it's several years old.
Thanks much!
What a terrific gift Ms. Backstrom has given to us. Yes, I read it but I'll keep on re-reading it for a long, long time.
Very interesting that it's not 'dated', even tho it's several years old.
Thanks much!
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews