Living Well with a Serious Illness: A Guide to Palliative Care for Mind, Body, and Spirit

Robin Bennett Kanarek's book "Living Well with a Serious Illness" is a practical guide for understanding how palliative care can improve the quality of life for patients and their caregivers. It argues for a more expanded definition of palliative care that incorporates it earlier in patients' journeys and provides information on how to access support, navigate advanced care planning, and advocate for palliative care.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2023
Publisher: Johns Hopkins University Press

A comprehensive guide to understanding the transformative impact of palliative care on the quality of life for patients and their caregivers.

Robin Bennett Kanarek, a registered nurse with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by patients suffering from chronic medical conditions, found herself navigating a personal journey of resilience and compassion when her ten-year-old son was diagnosed with leukemia. As her son endured grueling treatments, Robin witnessed firsthand the often overlooked critical psychological, emotional, and spiritual support needed by individuals facing life-threatening illnesses.

Driven by her personal experience and a profound commitment to improving the lives of those in need, Robin dedicated decades to advancing the field of palliative care. While palliative care is commonly associated with hospice and end-of-life planning, Kanarek advocates for a broader definition that encompasses palliative care earlier in patients' journeys.

In her groundbreaking book, "Living Well with a Serious Illness," Robin offers a comprehensive guide that empowers patients and their caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the complexities of serious illness. Through clear and accessible language, she explains what palliative care entails, how to access the support you require, and the essential questions to ask medical professionals. She also provides valuable insights into advanced care planning, clarifying common terminology and emphasizing the importance of spiritual care, coping strategies, and emotional support.

At the heart of palliative care lies the fundamental belief that patients are individuals who deserve care for their physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. "Living Well with a Serious Illness" illuminates this core tenet, providing a roadmap for healthcare professionals to deliver compassionate and personalized care that addresses the unique needs and preferences of each patient.

By empowering patients and caregivers with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the challenges of serious illness, "Living Well with a Serious Illness" serves as a powerful tool for promoting quality of life and enhancing the overall well-being of individuals facing life-threatening illnesses. This book is a testament to Robin Bennett Kanarek's unwavering dedication to improving the lives of those in need and her commitment to advancing the field of palliative care.

Weight: 382g
Dimension: 143 x 223 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781421445717