Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis [Paperback]

Jeffrey N. Gingold (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 1, 2006

When attorney Jeffrey N. Gingold misplaced his wife on the living room couch, and became lost while driving just blocks from his home, little did he know that he was experiencing a hidden symptom of multiple sclerosis: cognitive difficulties. Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis is a courageous and compelling personal account of one mans anguishing struggle with this aspect of the disease. It was written for the silent majority of MS patients who are privately dealing with MS cognitive symptoms and potential disabilities. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society estimates that over 400,000 people in the U.S. have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and there are millions more worldwide. Conservatively speaking, half of them will encounter varying degrees of cognitive difficulties. Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis brings this hidden disability into the open. It is an essential resource that will educate individuals coping with multiple sclerosis, and inform their families, caregivers, doctors and therapists.

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"This book (the first edition was published in 2006) details the cognitive challenges he faced—losing his train of thought while making a statement in court, getting lost a few blocks from home, forgetting whether he had dropped his daughters off at school, and not really recognizing his wife sitting next to him on their sofa—and the way he coped with them, from practical aides to courage, humor, and persistence in finding a neurologist who took his smallest mental lapses seriously. Gingold often speaks to groups afflicted with MS and their families and health-care providers, and this is another powerful testimony that interested readers will appreciate. Recommended."—Library Journal

Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis is a scholarly and powerful read that presents the very face of the disease, how it can be fought, and ultimately finding something of a cure."-Midwest book Review

"As recently as the 1980's, people diagnosed with multiple sclerosis were assured that their thinking skills would be spared when looking at the possible range of symptoms. It was not true then or now. Cognitive issues are bad players because they can significantly affect the lives of those who have them and their families, while remaining largely invisible to most of us. Jeffrey asckowledged his struggles and then moved forward by looking for solutions for himself and than them with others. We can all learn from his journey." — Patricia Kennedy, RN, CNP, MSCN Nurse Educator, Can Do Multiple Sclerosis and author of the forthcoming Can Do Multiple Sclerosis Guide to Lifestyle Empowerment

"Jeffrey Gingold, in this the second edition of his book, has not only provided an intimate look into the personal experiences with which he has had to contend with his MS, he has created a work which is informative, highly personal, incredibly supportive and realistic in its advice. It is a truly outstanding work that I can recommend without reservation to those both with MS as well as anyone who wants to know more about this aspect of MS.” — Patricia A. Farrell, PhD, author of It’s Not All in Your Head and How to Be Your Own Therapist

“In his latest and most moving book, Jeff Gingold takes us on a journey into the “hidden” precincts of multiple sclerosis – cognitive changes. Not only people with MS, but those with any connection to MS, personal or professional, should read this book.” — Nicholas G. LaRocca, PhD, Vice President of Health Care Delivery and Policy Research, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, author of Multiple Sclerosis: Understanding the Cognitive Challenges

“Multiple sclerosis can be a scary, lonely disease. Jeffrey Gingold has given us some weapons to fight where we can. He also demonstrates the wisdom to accept situations that are not what we had envisioned for ourselves, while showing that a "new" reality doesn't mean defeat. Buy this book. You will be stronger for reading it.” — Julie Stachowiak, PhD, About.com guide to Multiple Sclerosis, author of The Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto and The Diabetes Manifesto

Praise for the Previous Edition:

"Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis has an important place on the bookshelves of people with MS. Whether or not you are dealing with cognitive dysfunction (or are not quite sure), this is a heartfelt description of the daily struggles, the small and large losses, and the (sometimes embarrassing) emotions tied to the mental and physical challenges of MS. In the end, it is also a story of quiet victory and dignity in the face of this disease. I am very glad that I read it. You will be, too." — About.com

"Powerful and revealing, [Gingold's] is a story of denial and then acceptance, but with no hint of surrender... He understands that each person with MS is unique and lays out a series of steps that allows people to find an individual path. He challenges us to have four goals: get educated about the cognitive changes in MS; take action to make the necessary adjustments in our lives; reach out for available answers; and leave room for 'slow hugs'." — Inside MS

"One of the best books [written on the subject] in some time. The writing is smooth, making his experiences visual so the reader can share in his private, cognitive struggles good read, especially if you suspect or know you have cognitive issues. This book helped me understand what could happen, how I could cope with it and certainly that I was not alone in the anguish it will help anyone with MS, their spouses, friends and physicians." — MS World

"The story [Gingold] tells is honest, intelligent, and often humorous. Throughout the writing he notes facts about MS and strategies for acknowledging and coping with the cognitive changes MS may impose. Readers with MS may relate to and learn from his experiences, while readers without MS may better understand the effects of cognitive issues and how one feels to suddenly encounter these perplexing symptoms." — The MSAA Motivator

"Language laced with ironic humor and crisp images of a mental wheelchair express the devastation of what [Gingold] terms "smack-in-the-face" cognitive symptoms...Gingold's memoir is...a poetic testament to one man's courage." — Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers

"Gingold's thorough research and compassionate voice will resonate not only with fellow patients, but also with their friends, families and physicians...He anticipates and answers tough questions with candor, sympathy and a surprising amount of humor, expertly debunking the shame and frustration commonly associated with the mental ramifications of a terrifying disease...Insightful and informative, Gingold's guide is a much needed resource for the often invisible side of MS." — Kirkus Reports

"Not only does this book explore the frustration and fear that accompanies living with cognitive symptoms through a very personal lens, it also offers practical tips and perspectives on coping with a myriad of symptoms, as well as navigating such issues as decisions about medications and communicating effectively with your healthcare professional. Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis is a book that will be of interest to anyone who would like to learn more about cognitive symptoms and the impact that they can have, but it also offers lessons in moving forward against the odds." — Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada

"Mr. Gingold's personal account is a courageous, compelling, and revealing look at the cognitive difficulties accompanying the physical challenges of MS. It is my hope that this book will both validate for patients and their families these more subtle yet devastating symptoms, as well as mobilize physicians to more seriously consider cognitive symptoms in their diagnostic work-up and comprehensive care of their patients." — Dr. Bradley J. Fedderly, Member, Board of Directors, American Academy of Family Physicians

"Unfortunately, the cognitive effects of MS, although very real, are rarely discussed...Mr. Gingold's compelling and personal discussion about the cognitive effects offers new information and insights into a very real symptom of the disease. I believe Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis will draw an eager and large readership seeking new information and resources." — Colleen Kalt, President and CEO of the Wisconsin Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

--This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

About the Author

Jeffrey N. Gingold is an outspoken advocate regarding cognitive disability and has been a federal and state lobbyist. He helped procure funding for an MS early diagnosis program for indigent women in Wisconsin. He was the recipient of the NMSS Wisconsin Chapters 2003 Outstanding Volunteer Award. He is a published freelance writer who lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with his wife Terri and their two daughters - and one cat.

Product Details

• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: Demos Medical Publishing; 2006 AJN Book of the Year edition (May 1, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1932603603
• ISBN-13: 978-1932603606
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.9 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (20 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #850,487 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

49 of 50 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I do not feel so alone., May 16, 2006

By 

William R. Behring "Bam" (Cape Cod, Massachusetts) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis (Paperback)

I thought my problems with MS were mostly physical and even those were invisible to most people. When I read this book by Jeffrey Gingold I felt sad and relieved at the same time. When I worked at the bank I had a similar experience to his.My customer just stood there as I look perplexed. I forgot how do do something that I had does hundreds of times. I just stood there and asked the person next to me if they could take over because I felt sick.I then disguised my memory problems with different strategies like he did. I have since retired fron the bank at the age of 39. I struggled to keep working with my diagnosis from the age of 31 but at 39 I had to change my priorities. I am going to try and get my family to read this so they can understand the struggle of this unpredictable disease. I highly recommend this book to someone with MS and medical personel that are working with people that have MS . Thank You Mr. Gingold!!!
Susan

35 of 35 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Finally, a dialogue about the elephant in the living room, September 1, 2006

By 

anonymous (seattle) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis (Paperback)

Thank God Mr. Gingold had the courage and generosity to break the silence and call a spade a spade. Reading my story, almost
work for word, from another litigator desperately and secretly trying to keep all the balls in the air while inexorably sinking deeper into the morass of cognitive MS, has provided me the clarity to accept that this battle cannot be won on my terms so it is time to make peace with the disease and find a more MS-friendly, but still productive, life path. Mr. Gingold has provided an easily-read guidebook - a must read!

27 of 28 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars If you are caught in the maze of MS, This book is a must, January 6, 2007

By 

george (Rochester NY USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Facing the Cognitive Challenges of Multiple Sclerosis (Paperback)

Were I able to articulate what I have been going through over the past years I would have chosen similar situations .It is as though I had written this book How good it feels when somebody understands truly understands .As most who have been through the difficulties of MS know it takes time, time to get the diagnosis, time to adjust to the limitations that seem to get ever worse, time to realize that you can no longer handle what you once may have found so simple, time to deal with the ever growing frustrations of mental limitations as well as the physical, Time to get those you love and care about to understand what you are going through,time to adapt to a new life .You can get through this ! What Mr.Gingold has shown here is he knows he really knows what it is all about. He aptly describes the frustrations we encounter on a daily basis, the fatigue of the mind, as well as of the body .You can reclaim some of the joys of life, you can live a bit more simple. he has given many helpful tips but for me nothing has been more helpful than to have another soul know what you are going through .I had been seeing a Neurologist for six years and found myself in the deepest pit of frustration as he said all I was going through related to diabetic neuropathies .MY GP sent me to the MS center here at a local hospital and like detectives working on an old dormant case the great personal here went back over my old records ordered tests and put all the pieces together until they solved the puzzle.I cannot tell you how good it felt when my wife and I sat down with Martha, she answered questions before we even got them out, she described what we were going through to us,just when we were at a point of questioning our own sanity, she gave us support .This is what Mr. Gingold does .All those strange feelings, fears, frustrations, The limitations that have been imposed upon you from God knows where and they can be so odd, like being unable to make a phone call, or to have papers build up on your desk without being able to respond , the mind freeze ,Loss of concentration thoughts blocked while in mid sentence ,someone moving about sending your nerves into a tailspin along with noise and confusion, being unable to do more than one thing at a time, the odd physical sensations and pain, most people know some degree of the physical difficulty. few seem to know the mental hardships which are just as devastating .It helps to know it is not just you.That others understand, you are not alone in what you are feeling, then you can begin to make some changes that will allow you to cope. Here Mr.Gingold offers some insights much the same as Martha did for my wife and I. That can make such a great and wonderful difference .My wife had been watching the man she has known for 35 years fade from view and she was unable to understand or stop the process .I worried for her as I felt myself become overwhelmed by everything .We are now working in a positive direction with the help of people like Martha, and with Mr.Gingold's book you can get a handle on your life and you can improve .Nothing was more helpful than to have someone understand and know just what you are going through Mr. Gingold articulates that so very well .and offers some very helpful realistic tips on how to cope and make the best of what you have . I thank him and all those wonderful people who work so hard to help us.