health

The author describes her struggles with chronic fatigue syndrome, argues that medical science is ignoring the plight of those suffering from the condition, as well as similar disorders such as Gulf War syndrome, fibromyalgia, and multiple chemical sensitivity, and examines issues surrounding these illnesses and their lack of treatments.

James McManus reflects on the events that forced him to face his own mortality and re-evaluate the choices he had made in his life and offers a broad exploration of the American health care system.

The author shares her experiences as a two-time breast cancer survivor, the support of her family and friends, and running in two 10K races.

Chronicles the life of Peter Barton, recounting how he lived his life to the fullest and became a central figure in the creation of cable television before being diagnosed with cancer during the prime of his life.

Neil Ruzic recounts how he took charge of his own health after being diagnosed with the deadliest cancer of the lymph system, refusing recommended courses of chemotherapy and radiation and instead investigating cures being developed in the nation's cancer research laboratories.

Jay Neugeboren chronicles his battle with heart disease, open-heart surgery, and rehabilitation, sharing what he learned about life along the way.

"With acerbic wit and a hilarious voice, Shane Burcaw describes the challenges he faces as a twenty-one-year-old with spinal muscular atrophy. From awkward handshakes to having a girlfriend and everything in between, Shane handles his situation with humor and a "you-only-live-once" perspective on life. While he does talk about everyday issues that are relatable to teens, he also offers an eye-opening perspective on what it is like to have a life threatening disease"--.

Just weeks before her wedding, four of Rachelle Friedman's friends threw her a bachelorette party. At the end of a perfect evening of dancing and celebration, they decided to take a moonlight swim. One of her friends playfully pushed her into the water two feet too far from the deep end. That chilling moment changed their lives forever. Rachelle broke her neck and was paralyzed from the chest down. She would never walk again. On the night of the accident, the five girls made an unspoken agreement to never reveal the name of the friend who had pushed Rachelle into the pool--and their bond has remained unbroken. As Rachelle undergoes a physical battle for her life, her friend struggles emotionally to prevent one moment in time from defining her forever. The Promise chronicles Rachelle's relationship with her fiancee and their struggle with her paralysis and rehab, the physical challenges of intimacy, and ultimately, their fairy-tale wedding.