Via Amazon Title: Tools for the Exceptional Parent of a Chronically-Ill Child
Author: Shirley Riga
Genre: Parenting, Mental Health
How I got the book: I borrowed it from my sister
Summary (from Amazon):
Parenting a chronically-ill child, holding a family together, and taking care of oneself in the process is often an insurmountable task. As caregivers, you give and give, making life changing decisions for your children. Often, it’s only your will and determination that makes the endless problems survivable. But you need care too. When her daughter was born with two liver diseases, Shirley’s life was upended into a whirlwind of doctors and hospitals. In this book, she shares how she learned and applied tools for emotional survival. It takes courage to find peace. Shirley gives hope and understanding for other parents and caregivers of special children.
My Review:
What can I say about this book? It was a bittersweet tale of a family trying to overcome the many medical obstacles their daughter had to face since she was just an infant.
This story is told through journal entries as well as laid out as information and advice.
Despite the title, this book isn’t just a list of tools to help you overcome such a situation. It offers help and advice, but told as a story as the author learned these tools herself. She explains what she did and how it helped her get through.
The beginning and the ending of the book is written in the author’s journal entries as her daughter, Lisa, is diagnosed, undergoes so many tests and medical examinations, and as she grows up with her illness.
Overall, this story is about a family who understands what other parents in this situation are going through. This author wants them to know that they are not alone, they are strong, and they will get through it.
The writing was beautiful, the story and the message were strong and important. Every parent should read this whether they have a healthy child or not. It puts life in perspective and you’re grateful for what you have.
Tools for the Exceptional Parent of a Chronically-Ill Child by Shirley Riga gets 5 out of 5 stars.
Favorite Quote:
“Journaling gives you and outlet for all your thoughts. A journal can become your friend, your confidante that no one else needs to read. It will give you insight and room to feel your feelings.” –Shirley Riga, Tools for the Exceptional Parent of a Chronically-Ill Child
