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" provides a practical guide for understanding how palliative care can improve the quality of life for patients and their caregivers. It advocates for a more expanded definition of palliative care that incorporates it earlier in patients' journeys and covers topics such as what palliative care entails, how to access support, advanced care planning, spiritual care, coping strategies, and emotional support. The book emphasizes the importance of seeing patients as individuals who can benefit from care for their body, mind, and spirit.

Format: Paperback / softback
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 more expansive 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, demystifying common terminology used in end-of-life discussions.

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. Robin emphasizes the importance of addressing the whole person, recognizing the unique needs and preferences of each patient. She offers practical strategies for coping with the emotional toll of illness, including spiritual care, coping mechanisms, and emotional support.

Furthermore, "Living Well with a Serious Illness" serves as a powerful tool for advocating for palliative care. Robin empowers readers to become advocates for their own well-being and the well-being of their loved ones, raising awareness about the benefits of early intervention and holistic care. By empowering patients and caregivers, this book aims to transform the way we approach illness and provide solace and support to those facing life's most challenging circumstances.

In conclusion, "Living Well with a Serious Illness" is a transformative guide that offers hope, guidance, and compassion to patients and their caregivers. By providing a comprehensive understanding of palliative care, Robin empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of serious illness with confidence and resilience. This book is a testament to Robin's unwavering dedication to improving the lives of those facing life-threatening illnesses and a valuable resource for anyone seeking to enhance the quality of life for themselves and their loved ones.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 216 x 140 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781421445984