Gracefully Ill: Finding Peace in the Chaos of Chronic Illness

by Colleen George

I know what it’s like when your couch becomes your home, when pharmacists greet you by name, when you are constantly playing phone tag with doctors, and when showers leave you lying on your bed, completely spent and out of breath. I know how immensely difficult it is to lose your health - and to grieve your “old” life. And I know just how heavy and lonely the chronically ill life can be.

Too often we find ourselves so preoccupied with healing physically or with mitigating our symptoms that we overlook the invaluable process of emotionally healing. We shy away from the prospect of learning to find peace and joy within our chronically ill lives because we don’t know if it’s even possible.

Gracefully Ill is a cozy and comforting read that is here to remind you that even when your life is exhausting and heavy, it can still be full of beauty and meaning. Though our illnesses may be chronic, we still have the capacity to find so much joy, hope and laughter. And though our lives may be different (and harder) than we expected, they can still be okay.

Gracefully Ill is also for those who love someone with a chronic illness and who are hoping to learn how to show up as a caring, empathetic, and thoughtful support.

172 pages, Paperback

First published April 5, 2021

Reviews

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly Recommend!! There are so many people who have an invisible illness currently, and this sheds much-needed light on what it can be like to be young and look healthy, while inwardly struggling. "Gracefully Ill" not only provides such comfort for those who are navigating through life with a chronic illness, but it is also a necessary read for anyone who has a friend or a family member who is chronically ill. The author is so open and honest about her experiences in both a realistic and hopeful way that leaves the reader with a much greater perspective on what life with an illness is like. The writing style is beautiful--relatable and calm, and leaves the reader feeling like they are friends with the author.

[Jo · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was really able to relate to Colleen’s story, as I’ve been struggling with Chronic pain for the past 10 years myself and dealing with family and friends who don’t believe what I endure on a daily basis. Thank you Colleen for sharing your story, it’s comforting to know that I’m not alone in struggling with these issues. I was under the impression however that this book would provide more tips and suggestions for dealing with a chronic illness.

[Amanda Frekot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Colleen!! Thank you for sharing your story! This book puts words to the immeasurable emotional whirlwind of living with chronic illness. I couldn’t help comparing your experiences with my own chronic health struggles, wondering about our differences and commiserating in our similarities. It brought to the foreground the overwhelming feelings I tend to keep buried, but it consistently emphasized the importance of being kind to yourself. A cathartic read!

[Miranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book offers a great message for anyone with a chronic illness, especially those who have been newly diagnosed and struggle with finding their lives upended. It can also be helpful for those who love someone with a chronic illness and can provide everyone, regardless of health status, with a sense of hope for the future. The author highlights how beauty and comfort can be found in simpler things, like music or nature.