"... a seminal work of immense value . . .superbly presented, sensitively written and highly recommended." -- Midwest Book Review"...interesting and original...a substantial contribution... It would be a useful addition to required reading lists in medical and other schools of the health professions."
-- New England Journal of Medicine
Filling a gap in the death and dying literature, co-authors Pearson and Stubbs . . . assembled this collection of personal accounts of caregivers of the dying. Many books provide help to the dying or grieving, but countless people embark on the care of a dying loved one with little knowledge of what to expect and few resources to draw upon. These engaging and unflinching narratives told by a demographically diverse group of caregivers provide a variety of viewpoints, from family members and friends to healthcare professionals and counselors . . .This highly readable collection is recommended for all libraries. -- Library Journal
Parting Company...brings the reader support, courage, the stories of the quiet heroism of real people making decisions, taking care, being there for their dying loved ones. -- Isabella: Books and Tools for Reawakening the Spirit
Excerpts from the book's cover:
"Parting Company is a practical guide, a comforting companion and a thought-provoking treatise on what dying at home means for those in the home. By sharing details and giving voice to their experiences, the contributors provide the kind of information so many of us need but so few of us usually find in time. I recommend it to everyone!"
-- Susan McGee Bailey, Ph.D., Executive Director, the Wellesley Centers for Women
"Parting Company tells powerful stories about dying, death, and grief. These true tales, including portents and dreams, teach caregivers who are helping their own loved ones pass from life--a journey we all must eventually make. Poignant, even painful, they nonetheless offer guidance and hope."
-- Patricia Garfield, author of The Dream Messenger: How Dreams of the Departed Bring Healing Gifts
More about caring at the end of life:
Just Talk About It, a series of one minute public service announcements on end-of-life issues, can be viewed at the websites of the Take Charge of Your Life Partnership or the Pennsylvania Department of Aging.
Common Problems of the Caregiving Experience by Matthew Loscalzo, MSW, is a thorough delineation of the challenges confronting caregivers.
Growth House, "the Internet's leading online community for end of life care," provides many valuable resources, including the excellent Handbook for Mortals.
copyright 2010 Cynthia Pearson