Customer Reviews

Rusty's Story

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Rusty has epilepsy, but neither her family nor her caretakers are willing to accept this diagnosis. This book chronicles the life of a young woman who was denied the chance to live normally even though her condition is easily treatable. Even Rusty herself had misconceptions about epilepsy and what could be done for her condition. A must read for patient advocates, medical ethicists, and people who want to know more about the history of epilepsy treatment. Reading level: College/Adult. Warnings: small amount of violence. Reader considers this book very *emotionally provoking*. Reader also considers this one of her favorite books.

All Rusty wanted to be was a normal teenage girl, but a epilepsy and that wrong diagnosis locked her up in a mental institute with real crazy people. This is a story that unlocks you inner most fears of a life lived in constant terror. The unforgettable true story of friendship and triumph over the greatest of odds.

I found out about this book the summer of 2002 from the Epilepsy Foundation of America. It could so easily be my story and very nearly is.... Patient rights need to be protected but so often they are ignored. I was committed after refusing a feeding tube, but then denied medical care for my status episodes of seizures and migraines while in the Psych Ward. Nobody can ever explain what it is like to happen to you, but Carol Gino comes close. Everyone needs to read this story and then go to your lawyer and get a medical power of attorney assigned to someone you trust. Protect yourself anyway you can. This story may scare you, but in the long run you need to protect yourself. Know that you have rights. Also, know that there is always someone worse off than you, and that you must always have hope. I did, and I survived...

The patient asks. "How will I know if I'm crazy." And the doctor answers, "If you can ask that question you are probably OK." But what if you ask and there is no one listening? Or what if your body is doing things that scare people and you have no control over it? That is exactly what happens in this true story, "Rusty's Story". There isn't any fairy tale ending. This is real life. All there is is hope. I like that.