A Delicate Balance: Living Successfully With Chronic Illness

by Susan Milstrey Wells

Chronic physical illnesses-such as lupus, Sjogren's syndrome, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, inflammatory bowel disorders, Lyme disease, interstitial cystitis, multiple sclerosis-take their toll on every aspect of a person's life. Though millions of people manage to cook, care for children, or work despite their disability, they do so with fatigue, pain, and the grinding uncertainty of living with chronic illness.A thoughtful exploration of this experience, A Delicate Balance provides both up-to-date practical advice and inspiration for the millions of Americans who struggle daily against chronic illness. From locating a suitable health-care provider and making sense of the powerful emotions that accompany chronic illness, to seeking accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act and applying for Social Security Disability Insurance, A Delicate Balance is informed by in-depth, personal interviews with patients, care providers, and family members. The result is a compassionate and immensely hopeful book for anyone touched by a chronic disease.

Genres: Health, Nonfiction

312 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2000

Reviews

[Roberta · Rating 5 out of 5]

I came away with an insight I'd not considered before. Don't try and pass yourself off as a "normal" person if you have an incurable disease. Take care of yourself first, enjoy friends and family when you feel well enough to do so, but be prepared to anger those around you who expect more from you than you are capable of. Most people don't like disability, don't want to be around it or be reminded it exists.

[Jackie · Rating 1 out of 5]

Provides an overview of people living with different chronic illness, mainly autoimmune disorders. Provides advice on a multitude of topics, including becoming an assertive patient, special diets, depression remedies, and visualization. Great book for people newly diagnosed with a chronic illness. Not as useful for people who have been living with one for awhile.