My three books explore, in different contexts, the deep feelings that arise as new joys are discovered or new challenges faced. All three have universal themes.
Wise Before their Time: People with AIDS and HIV talk about their lives, 1992, re-launched 2017
These stories stem from an international conference of people with HIV/ AIDS in 1991. The participants talk about the difficulties of telling their parents, partners and friends of their diagnosis, their experience of stigma and their own mortality. Although not relevant to people diagnosed today, it tells the human stories behind that dark period. getbook.at/Wise
In a Foreword, Sir Ian McKellen writes “these stories are as powerful as any great classic of fiction.”
“Invaluable. These historic interviews are not only rare, but also remarkably candid.!”
“Describes unimaginable ignorance, fear and pain. Full of incredibly brave people writing their heart-breaking stories.”
“An important document. Participants talk about their fears for the future, their relationships, attitudes to sex and spirituality. Heart-warming, with an underlying sense of sadness.”
Life in a Hospice: reflections on caring for the dying, 2007, re-launched 2017
This book is based on interviews with hospice workers – nurses, doctors, chaplains, managers and more. They talk about why they do such work and its impact on their lives. The enormous thought to making people’s last days meaningful shows humanity at its best. getbook.at/Hospice
Highly Commended by the British Medical Association: “An easy-to-read book, which will surprise many readers with its lightness of touch, humanity and refreshing tone.” BMA
“As a hospice volunteer, I know the beauty that can occur at the end of life. A beautifully written and thoughtful explanation of much of what occurs in a hospice.”
“As the child of two elderly parents, this book is going to make it a LOT EASIER to deal with. The advice is smart and easily understood by any reader. A great book for people who may be dealing with this subject.”
“As a palliative care physician, this book helped me runderstand the many roles and perspectives in a hospice. I recommend it to health professionals and anyone who has been through this tough time.”
“As a medical ethicist in a hospital, I am moved by the candour of staff, specifically about the difficulties experienced and how they cope. It makes legitimate what we think and feel, but are reluctant to admit.”
Celebrating Grandmothers: grandmothers talk about their lives, 2014
This book is based on interviews with grandmothers from all walks of life. It includes happy stories of the pleasures of small children and stories of difficult family relationships. Being a grandmother is shown to affect women’s sense of themselves and their place in the family. getbook.at/Grandmothers
“The portrait is complex, diverse, nuanced, and full of insight.”
“I was expecting a sentimental take on grandmothers and their grandchildren with many anecdotes, but this is a collection of very candid and honest interviews. It is sometimes sad, but also joyous and funny.”
“A wonderful book for grandmothers, but not exclusively for them. It allows us to take stock of how important nurturing relationships are for ourselves, our families, and the world at large."
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The joys and challenges of being a grandmother, as told by 27 women in their own words
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The joys and challenges of working in end-of-life care, as told by 31 nurses, doctors and others in their own words
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The moving testimonies of young people living with HIV/AIDS in the early 1990s
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