2 comments about The Unguarded Moment: A Surgeon's Discovery of the Barriers to Prescription of Inexpensive, Effective Healthcare in the Form of Therapeutic Exercise.

1. The Unguarded Moment is a great read--both a memoir of a great orthopaedic surgeon and also an examination of the problems he encountered in introducing a solution to one of the most costly medical problems. Recommended for health care professionals, for those with a "personal" interest in back pain, and for those concerned by the exorbitant cost of today's health care.



2. In an unguarded moment, one can have an accident, a moment of serendipity, an epiphany, or spontaneous healing. Throughout his life, Vert Mooney, M.D. has been lucky in his unguarded moments, usually finding a situation exactly right to further his research into healing painful physical conditions through therapeutic exercise.
   
   In The Unguarded Moment, Dr. Mooney explains why this effective treatment is so limited in general medical care. Readers learn about the concept of IRACS (ignore, ridicule, attack, copy, and steal) as well as the mysterious NHI (not invented here) and how these often keep a brilliant idea from reaching the general public.
   
   With healthcare costs on the rise, pharmaceutical and medical equipment manufacturing companies have their hands deeper and deeper into the pockets of consumers, often with questionable results. When innovative and inexpensive solutions for disease and pain are found, they are often suppressed, at the expense of the patient. The Unguarded Moment provides a jumping-off point for responsible patient-driven healthcare.
   --- from book's back cover

No comments about Native American Doctor: The Story of Susan Laflesche Picotte (Trailblazer Biographies).

3 comments about Never Question the Miracle.

1. Rose-Marie Toussaint's autobiographical novel Never Question the Miracle: A Surgeon's Story is a touching tale about the struggles of an African American woman whose lifelong dream is to become a surgeon. In plain and soemtimes simple language, Toussaint transports the reader to various times in her life, each fraught with strong and unique emotion. Toussaint shies away from nothing in this detailed account of her personal triumph over numerous obstacles such as her troubled childhood in Haiti, her draining years at college as a pre-med student, her failed relationships and her long years in residency. It is the story of a journey through life and the importance of not giving up hope.
   The book begins with Toussaint struggling amid the limitations of transplant surgery. She tells of sick patients desperately in need of a liver transplant but too poor to afford one, while in another hospital a wealthy patient who lacks the will to survive is given preference because the family can afford to pay for the transplant. She tells of the reality of organ transplantation, how doctors have to fight with insurance companies to convince them to authorize the operations. These social injustices and bureaucratic intricacies of the medical world show the reader that there is much to question about the system. She aligns herself on the side of the poor, often times African American patients, whom she sympathizes with since she herself has had to overcome similar barriers.
   The author then turns the spotlight on herself and begins with her autobiography which starts in Haiti; it is a childhood marked by poverty and a strong sense of religion, a blend of both Christianity and voodoo. She examines the various relationships that influenced her childhood and speaks openly about her mother's abusive nature and her father's desertion of the family. The subsequent journey to Miami and the reunion of her family there gives Toussaint the strength she will need to apply to a difficult premedical college program. From then on her family remains a solid backbone of support throughout the rest of Toussaint's journey.
   From her college years on Toussaint shares her struggles without apology; she tells of the disappointment she felt at not getting accepted to medical school and her frustration with the low level jobs she took as a result. Even her heartbreaking personal relationships with men are included in the story. When at last she is accepted into a medical school and starts to make sense of the schooling process, her relief is contagious. During medical school, Toussaint is faced with considerable amounts of prejudice both because she is a woman and because she is African American. As she proves herself to the older doctors and professors, she is also proving to herself that she can accomplish her goals.
   Toussaint's story draws the reader into her mind as she progresses thorugh her journey to ultimately become a transplant surgeon. Her thoughts and reflections make up the bulk of the book and center around the challenges she faces everyday. The reader watches her make mistakes and learn from them. Her story is continuously growing and developing as she matures. it is a story meant to inspire people to achieve their dreams, no matter what boulders lie in the way. It is a story about not giving up hope and underneath it all it is also a story meant to incite change for the sake of the thousands of poor people in this country whose insurance companies will not pay the price to save their lives.



2. Reads like a fantastic novel! Meet Dr. Toussaint at holisticdoctor.org



3. Rose-Marie is a friend of mine. Because she is humble and unassuming, I had only a hint of what a treasure load of talent, inspiration and skill she really is. Her book tells her story - a young woman from Haiti, literally pulling herself up by her own boot straps to become a surgeon at Howard University Hospital specializing in liver transplant surgery. She has met every challenge that blacks and women must meet, and she has conquered them all with brilliance and understanding. I hope you have time to look at her book. It's a real inspiration for young people with dreams.

No comments about Birth in a Chicken House: A Collection of Stories.

5 comments about Imagining Robert: My Brother, Madness and Survival : A Memoir.

1. I learned alot about the life of someone with a non-trivial emothional problem(s) and how society (and families) treats them. I also experienced an absorbing personal story that made it hard for me to put the book down. Well written, highly absorbing, educational, and highly recommeneded.



2. I absolutely loved this book. Reviewers here have complained that it's not just about Robert, but about the author and his life. I loved that fact. I too have a brother w/ a mental illness, and I too am a teacher and I like to write. I found all of these stories -- the story of Robert, Jay's connection to him, Jay's struggle to tell Robert's story, and Jay's life as a father -- all equally compelling. I finished the book in 2 days and sent an effusive email to the author, who sent me a kind email back that very same day. This book moved me deeply, made me think and want to write.



3. This book was terrible, it was an expolitation of his brother, and a shameless way to promote his other books. No matter the situation, the author found a way to make a reference to another book he had wrote. It was poorly written, and jumps around quite a bit. Don't waste your time or money on this book, or any book of this author's.



4. As someone who has made a career of helping the mentally ill, This book broke my heart. Yet I believed the problems existed as stated.

   As the parent of a child who, as a teen, developed the need for the safety of psychiatric hospitals, I cried for Jay and his family.

   As someone who became clinically depressed after my child's serious suicide attempt, I easily understood the need for what sometimes seemed like unrealistic optimism.

   This book offers something for anyone involved with people who are mentally ill. Read it. Keep it. Learn from it.




5. First, the good things: it must have taken courage to write the book, because of the possibility of betraying the privacy of the family. At the same time, the writing process must have been immensely satisfying. I imagine Jay finishing it, sitting back, smiling, and saying "If God takes me tomorrow, that's ok; the story has been told." In fact, Jay came to visit my college English class, and he told us that's exactly what he was thinking. I know how difficult it is to tell a true story about oneself in such remarkable detail, which is why the book earns three stars. But based on its execution, I'd rather only give it two. Here's why...

   Is this book really about Robert? How many times does Jay congratulate himself on rising above a background that was out to get him? He went to Columbia, you know. And did he mention he's a writer? He throws that in so many times, you just KNOW he views being a writer as the noblest and most enviable profession in the world. The phrase "my accomplishments" crops up an awful lot, especially in a book supposedly dedicated to a mentally ill brother. Also, did Jay mention he's a writer?

   And yes, the sentence structure was maddening (pun intended). A sentence can go on for an entire page, sometimes to such ridiculous lengths that I'd walk down the hall and read it aloud to my friends, just to show them with what I was dealing. I understand this problem a bit, though. I imagine Jay sitting at his desk with so much to say, afraid that if he doesn't put as much down as possible, as soon as it comes into his head, he'll lose it. So he erects a quick parenthetical fence and sends it down.

   Basically, when I'd finished reading the book for my English class, I wished that Robert could come to visit instead of Jay. Much as Jay tries to overshadow him, Robert is the star of this book and a truly fascinating character. I realize that I only know about Robert through Jay's writing, so I respect Jay for that. But the book irritated me to no end. I guess I'm just not sensitive enough.

4 comments about Codeine Diary : A Memoir.

1. Like Mr. Andrews, I have a bleeding disorder. We also share the sad distinction of having to be hospitalized for "bleeds". These are always terrible, trying times.
   My god how I wished I'd had this book with me during my last bleed.
   Andrews captures the experience perfectly. There is all the fear, the humor, the midnight pleas for more pain medicine, the frustration, the urge to get up and get back to your normal life. It's all there. And without a word wasted.
   The loss of Tom Andrews was a tragic moment for poetry, but I will continue to honor his memory by buying as many copies as I can of Codeine Diary (as well as his wonderful poetry collections) and handing them out to everyone I know (especially my patients with bleeding disorders). I know that the world has much to gain from his wise words.



2. This novel is at times funny, at other times heartbreaking, but entirely wonderful. It is a shame that Tom Andrews passed away so soon after the publication of this, his first novel. He was a great writer and a family friend who will be missed.



3. As I read this I entered a world where only 20,000 others are forced to endure in the USA. That world being that of a Hemophiliac. We can never know what suffering is as Mr. Andrews does, but this book has shown us a shocking glimpse of what it's like. I have been awakened from my shallow existence and can now overcome what measly barriers life has given me. Mr. Andrews, thank you for sharing your life with us. I sir take my hat off to you for your courage and wish you nothing but the best of luck in the future! I must also conclude by saying that you are a damn good poet as well, but then again Charles Wright is your mentor. But please do me a favor from now on, try to live a sedentary life for you have much poetry left to write. It would be a shame to deny us of many more years of your wonderful poetry, by risking it all on some reckless adventure. Your life is your own, but remember that you also have a legion of loyal readers that you are now responsible for.



4. Andrews provides a glimpse inside the personal space of a poet who happens to be a hemophiliac. _Codeine Diary_ is a carefully wrought memoir that reveals Andrews' passion for language and life, and it is this love of language which makes this uniquely witty and introspective book more than personal. It is good that it was written.
   - C.M.

2 comments about Possessed Mentalities.

1. Possessed Mentalities is not written as a sensational murder story. It is a book written for the general reader as a reference for many current political and mental health issues. It is an excellent read and reference for anyone wishing to live wisely.It is not written for those who, for whatever illogical reasons, cling to Freudian beliefs about mental illnesses.



2. A first-hand account of mental illness from a woman who came to understand it through her daughter--in the most painful way imaginable. The reader will come to admire the author's openness with her feelings and bravery in dealing with woefully neglectful state institutions for treatment of mental illnesses. An eye-opener every thinking person should read.

No comments about Listening in the Silence, Seeing in the Dark: Reconstructing Life after Brain Injury.

5 comments about Sarah's Song: A True Story of Love and Courage.

1. The story of a loving couple that live and love a full life in the shadow of being HIV-positive.



2. This book was wonderfully written, yet extremely sad. A story of two very young, professional, and COURAGOUS people. What stands out most to me, is their courage. If I had found myself in their shoes, I could never handle it as Janice and her husband did. They accepted their fate and bravely lived life to the fullest. I see that Janice's mother has posted here. Your daughter was an inspiration. May she rest in the arms of our Lord
   Traci



3. I loved this little book the first time I read it a few years ago. It's the sad, true story of William and Janice Burns and their struggle with AIDS. Janice tells her heartbreaking story in a clear, honest voice and there is little window dressing on the tragedy of this tale. It's so easy to identify with the Burns, they are so like anyone you would have gone to college with. I'm sad to learn of Janice's death, but I'm glad her mother has posted on here. Janice's words have touched many lives, far more than many other more superficial things in life.



4. Sarah's Song is a wonderful book that takes you on the journey of a newly married couple's discovery of their HIV infection and the struggles they live through as they battle it. There is a bit of all of us in this couple. They could have been any of us or our friends. Their story will make you cry many times. It is told intelligently and with wit and courage.I read the book in 1996 and always wondered how Janice was doing. I see by her mothers' comments above that she did not survive. I had hoped she would. Get snuggled in bed, grab some tissues and hot tea and make an evening of this book. When you are done take a look at your life and count your blessings.



5. I want to thank those readers of my late daughter's book for their comments. To those who might not know, Janice died on Sept.28,1996. She had received transfusions in July and contracte Hepatitis C. She was no longer strong enough to fight off the infection. She was brave and hopeful to the end.

5 comments about Facing Me: Breaking the Bonds of Seizure Confinement; A Journey in Faith and Restoration.

1. WOW! What a great book! Stephanie tells her story with courage and grace. Her story is the story of everyone who experiences seizures or any disability for that matter. Her honesty and clarity are to be admired. She has hit the nail on the head when it comes to what it is like to live with seizures. I am one of those who can relate to the meaning of seizure confinement. But her book emphasizes the faith and restoration that can come when you act on your personal courage. If you are looking for a book to give you courage to encounter the fear of the unknown then this is the book for you. A MUST READ!!!



2. As Ms. Sawyers husband, I am repeating my previous review and changing my review up from 4 * to 5* Even since "Facing Me" was published, I have become more aware of the role societal influences, drug effects, and psycho/social effects play in the person struggling with epilepsy. My earlier 4 star (repeated below) allowed room for others to advance the review. They have appropriately done so, and I acknowledge the rightness of the 5 star rating.
   
   For anyone struggling with epilepsy, either as a patient (as my wife) or as someone who loves an epilepsy patient, this is a must read. For anyone affected by a chronic medical condition, either as a patient or as a family member, it is a must read.
   For the one carrying the heavy burden, you will hear the voice of one who has "been there." For those of us who deeply love one so afflicted, you will learn much of what it means to be in your partners shoes (something you must learn).
   Twenty years ago, we would have given almost anything to hear this story from another. You should listen.
   
   Here is my original review:
   
   "An excellent tale of struggle with epilepsy (which mostly means struggling with society's view of epilepsy) and the self-accepted stigma which often accompanies it. This is not a technical medical story, as much as it is a patients account. As such, it is less involved with precise medical details than "what is it like" to go through metamorphosis. As the tale continues through brain surgery, and the author's effort to understand her place in the world without epilepsy, there is a freshness and genuineness which comes from a patient's point of view, illuminated by her faith in God's active presence.
   A great read for anyone with a chronic medical condition, those in relationship with them, and for anyone who could use a dose of hope."
   
   R. Eric Sawyer



3. Facing Me is the story of Stephanie S. Sawyer's struggle with epilepsy, a medical condition that takes many forms. Stephanie struggles with daily seizures that leave her feeling disoriented, humiliated and depressed. While she struggles to hold her world together, she starts to have a spiritual awakening that gives her the strength she needs to endure societal pressures and being fired from her job.
   
   During a time in her life when she needs the most support, she endures misunderstanding, a lack of support from her community and overwhelming nights of the soul. After undergoing surgery she has new challenges, unexpected surges in her creativity and entire new worlds to explore. She is mentally unprepared for all the changes that start to occur, and as the seizures disappear, an overwhelming depression threatens to undermine all her previous efforts at healing.
   
   Will her faith in God give her the strength she needs to overcome her fear and discouragement? Will the surgery be a success and will she be able to live a fulfilling existence and find hope in a seemingly hopeless situation?
   
   Stephanie S. Sawyer's story is fascinating because she reveals many aspects about epilepsy that are essential for understanding the fear, struggles and discouragement this invasive challenge presents. Stephanie's writing is vivid, inspiring and informative.
   
   Since 181,000 new cases of epilepsy are diagnosed each year and ten percent of the American population will experience a seizure in their lifetime, this book is essential reading.
   
   ~The Rebecca Review



4. Facing Me is one of those books that you cannot start without finishing. If you put it down to go to sleep, the first thing you'll do in the morning is pick it up again.
   Even if you're not much of a book reader, you'll find yourself clutching Facing Me, which details Stephanie Sawyer's personal struggle with Epilepsy. She displays incredible courage dealing with the disorder, the brain surgery she endured and the post-operative experiences that followed.
   Epilepsy is a frightening disorder. It strikes anytime and anyplace. It can leave you exhausted and embarrassed and its threat is something the epileptic never forgets. The epileptic is on-guard every minute of every day attempting to hide a constant concern.
   But in spite of the never-ending challenges, the author never gives up. She maintains a positive attitude, refuses to give up and has brain surgery. With the surgery comes depression, a dark and frightening ordeal when the simplest task can be overwhelming.
   Five years after the surgery - just as Stephanie was certain her seizure disorder was gone for good - she had another seizure. The thought of another seizure after certain victory had to be devastating, but Stephanie didn't give up. She continued to share her musical talents, graduated from Moores School of Music in 1999 and has proven an incredible inspiration.
   I know about Epilepsy and I also know about the surgery. I, too, suffered from the disorder and had the same surgery as Stephanie. That said, I can say first-hand that Facing Me is a phenomenal book written by a spirited and courageous person who has refused to give up against all odds.

   Mike Henle, author




5. I had intended to save Stephanie Sawyer's Facing Me to read on an upcoming road trip, but I made a couple of mistakes. First, I took it out of the box; next, I opened it. Once I did this, I couldn't lay it down. This book is so compelling I had to keep reading. I think everyone at times feels inadequate, but to have had to overcome the stigma that this woman faced as a child and into adulthood, gave me a new insight into how much prejudice hurts. That she should have triumphed over this thing, which was so shameful her own family refused to name it, hiding it and her away until she could be "normal" again, gives hope to all who suffer from being "different," whether it's because of some physical or emotional impairment. Not only has the author overcome her epilepsy, she has used her experience to become the remarkable woman she is today.