Living Beyond Limits:: New Hope and Help for Facing Life-Threatening Illness

by David Spiegel

Based in part on the author's landmark study which demonstrated the benefits of group therapy for cancer patients, this study explores the interaction of mind and body in the healing process

Genres: Psychology

316 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[Veek · Rating 4 out of 5]

David Spiegel pioneered discovery of the health and longevity benefits for participants in cancer support groups, when he ran initial and subsequent studies of women with terminal breast cancer in support groups he ran at Stanford. His writing is compassionate, accessible and (especially for the time) fearless in challenging the arms-length status quo for medical practice.

[Ned · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best books that describes the experience of a person going through a life threatening disease. Although the author himself hasn't been through a serious disease, the details and nuances that are revealed are exactly what happens. If you are either going through, family member, or close friend of yours is diagnosed, this book will allow you to see what they are experiencing. Furthermore, the book is packed with gems on how to deal with most of the things that come your way. The authors experience from the therapy sessions he has lead show the depth and understanding he gained from them.

[Rachel]

Read in 1996. My review from then: A great antidote to the blame put out by Bernie Siegel. The author says you don't get cancer (or whatever) from having a bad attitude. However, having a good outlook, especially from support in support groups, can make a big difference in the course of the illness and survival time. Good to read after your New Age doctor asks you, "Why do you need your illness?". [Yes, two non-related MDs separately asked me that.]