As I cope with chronic pain on a daily basis I have found that writing is a wonderful outlet for frustration. Writing helps me to define what is bothering me and then I can crumple up the paper and toss it in the trash – symbolically allowing me to rid myself of the aches and stress. When I am caring for patients who have experienced trauma, are depressed, at wits end, or feeling boxed in from the symptoms they are experiencing I encourage them to journal, not for anyone else to see – but as an avenue for self enlightenment and inspiration. Writing Therapy includes poetry, storytelling, journalling, memoir, humor and narrative. [Read more...]
Writing: A Therapeutic Tool to Deal with Cancer
June 3, 2011 By 2 Comments
Cystic Fibrosis
March 29, 2011 By 2 Comments
Cystic fibrosis is an inherited chronic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system of about 30,000 children and adults in the United States (70,000 worldwide). A defective gene and its protein product cause the body to produce unusually thick, sticky mucus that:
- clogs the lungs and leads to life-threatening lung infections; and
- obstructs the pancreas and stops natural enzymes from helping the body break down and absorb food.
In the 1950s, few children with cystic fibrosis lived to attend elementary school. Today, advances in research and medical treatments have further enhanced and extended life for children and adults with CF. Many people with the disease can now expect to live into their 30s, 40s and beyond.
Angela Morrison has written a great young adult novel that portrays a boy who desperately tries to escape jail (hospitalization and medical treatments) in pursuit of being normal: SING ME TO SLEEP. She has done her research well and presents this haunting narrative with professional expertise. I highly recommend it for anyone with CF, or acquainted with someone with CF.
Another issue that is handled quite well in this book is bullying, and poor-self esteem. The story also shows the strength and power of love, and healing effects of music.
