Strong at the Broken Places

I'm about halfway through Richard Cohen's new book, Strong at the Broken Places, which details the stories of 5 people living with chronic illnesses (ALS, MS, incurable cancer, etc.). I read Cohen's first book, Blindsided, about his life journey with MS. I thought people on this board might find these books validating. Notice I didn't say "inspiring" - not that they aren't that, but I know I grow weary of book and resources which don't address the real truth of living with serious illness and disability. I think these books do that beautifully. They're the most truthful, authentic accounts of how lives are affected, dreams cut short for many of us. I'm having to borrow the book from the library, due to financial limits, and it's on the best seller list so I've got to return it by the end of the week. May not get to finish it right away. There is also a website with message board I think many of us could find serves as another resource. Just go to www.StrongAtTheBrokenPlaces.com.
If anyone's read any of Cohen's books, or heard his story (his wife is Meredith Vierra of the Today Show), I'd like to know if you found it helpful.

Gramps - you're sure doing a wonderful job on this board! Cohen himself struggles with many of the symptoms you describe, and he's writing and monitoring the message board I noted above. Maybe going to the website you'll find some helpful info. Also, I think there are some brief excerpts of the books on the website. I'm guessing his first book, Blindsided, is on audio book at the library by now. I don't know if that would be helpful. Also - the people he wrote about are also posting on the message board. I haven't registered on that board yet, but plan to. I don't think it matters whether you've read the book!

Oh, I forgot to mention one of the main themes is how disappointing people find their medical resources in most cases. Cohen got all 5 people together and had a forum at Harvard Medical School for the medical students to try to teach them about what's not in their books.

Gagabonnie,
It just came out a month or so ago, and is on the best seller list, so some places may not have it yet. I was at Borders the other day and had to ask someone to help me find it -it was hidden in general medical section. When I asked why it wasn't up front with all the other new releases, I was told that was controlled by the reps who come into the store. Anyway, I'm not familiar with the Provincial Library site, but maybe they'll have it in awhile. Also, ask at your local library - that's where I got mine!