Chronic Illness: Facing Its Challenges

THE INSPIRATIONAL STORIES WITHIN THESE PAGES WILL SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACT YOUR LIFE! This book contains life-changing lessons and coping skills that the author has learned professionally and personally in response to chronic illness. Given less than six months to live in her early thirties and currently living life to its fullest at 63, Aletha testifies to God's sustaining strength in the face of each new challenge. Presented in a professional manner by a nurse and Christian therapist, this book addresses the challenges you may face prior to receiving a diagnosis as well as learning to live life to its fullest with a chronic illness. The author, who lives with several chronic illnesses herself, presents a creative way of developing a support system. Following her program of companion dialog and journaling, you may experience an improvement in quality of life and leave a lasting legacy for your loved ones. Alternatively, instead of journaling, you could discuss the provocative questions presented in each chapter with a friend, family member, clergyperson, teacher-or God. Newer treatment methods-such as scripture as medication, "five-minute vacations," and food sensitivity awareness-are parts of the author's comprehensive arsenal in dealing with chronic illness. Finally, preparing for death is explored as an important part of living responsibly. Aletha Kuenstler has a bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee and a master's in nursing from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. She is also a certified social worker in Michigan. Her nursing career focused on assisting individuals in living life to its fullest with their challenges. Ms. Kuenstler has the following chronic illnesses: Crohn's disease, lupus, diabetes, pernicious anemia, Sjogren's syndrome, and post-polio syndrome. She has recovered from cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure. Her fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome are in remission.