If there's one thing that people with chronic illnesses need, it's to know that they -- that we -- are not alone in our experiences. Sharing our stories enables us to connect; it helps us to feel seen, heard, and understood. Through these stories, we learn; we laugh; we love one another. We create a bond without ever meeting. We are in this together.
That's why I started my blog years ago, it's why I write my column for Sarcoidosis News, and it's why I'm working on the Kaleidoscope series now. If you've made it this far, then I think you'll enjoy reading the books below, too.
Order your copy today!
Kaleidoscope:
Rare Disease Stories
TOLD BY THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE THEM
Kerry Wong, Float Like a Buttahfly
Kaleidoscope Rare Disease Stories is a collection of true, first-person stories from people around the world living with a variety of rare diseases. The writers in this book, like the rare diseases they live with, span all ages, ethnicities, genders, religions, and ability levels.
Each story shares an aspect of their experience: the journey to diagnosis, what they've learned, how they've grown, changed, and connected with others in the rare community, how they embrace life, and more. These rare warriors show strength, courage, creativity, humor, and so much more. They are living proof that even through the darkest of times, through the unthinkable, through the fear - there is always hope.
With a foreword by Karen Duffy Lambros, NY Times best-selling author of Model Patient, Backbone, and Wise Up, who lives with neurosarcoidosis.
Available now in e-book, paperback, and hardcover. Net proceeds from sales of this book will be donated to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD).
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Keeping It Real with Arthritis:
Stories from Around the World
Effie Koliopoulos, Rising Above RA
KIRWA brings together stories from over 100 individuals living with or affected by all different forms of arthritis (and I'm one of them!).
"Ranging from heartfelt, hopeful, motivating, and empowering, to heart-wrenchingly eye-opening, these stories shine a light on the realities of everyday life with arthritis and related conditions."
For my entry, I wrote about how having arthritis is like living with the seven dwarves of Disney fame.
That's right - you know the crew: Dopey, Happy, Grumpy, Bashful, Sleepy, Sneezy, & Doc. At different times, we can feel every one of those - sometimes all at once! To read over 100 more great stories, visit keepingitrealwitharthritisbook.com to order your copy.
More Recommended Reading:
Here are some other great books written by people with chronic illnesses for people with chronic illnesses:
Suggestions? Email me at floatlikeabuttahfly@gmail.com.
