Young People and Chronic Illness [Paperback]

Kelly Huegel (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 1, 1998

Written by a young woman with Crohn's disease, this book is a source of strength, inspiration, and sound advice for young people diagnosed with chronic illnesses. It helps them learn to cope, know they're not alone, and make the most of the wonderful opportunities that lie ahead. B&W photos.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 5 Up-In the first section of this book, Huegel introduces 10 young people, each of whom has a chronic illness. They explain how they were diagnosed; medical management; and how they deal with family, friends, and school. They share how they have fashioned a satisfying life for themselves despite the limitations their conditions might impose. The diseases discussed are hemophilia, diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, congenital heart defect, and lupus. Each chapter is accompanied by a small black-and-white photograph of its subject, followed by questions and answers about the disease and a list of resources including organizations, books, and Web sites. Part two discusses strategies for managing an illness; maintaining a relationship with a doctor; dealing with friends, family, and school; battling fear of hospitals; finding a support group; and planning for the future. The text, written in a conversational, sympathetic tone, is sprinkled with upbeat quotes. Advice is terse, well organized, and to the point, making it easy to remember, if difficult to carry out. There are many books that relate stories about the disease of the month, but Huegel's focus is on how these kids manage their own lives and how their experiences can help others cope with chronic illness. A good choice for any collection.
Martha Gordon, formerly at South Salem Library, NY
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Review

A good choice for any collection. -- School Library Journal

This book is a source of strength, inspiration, and sound advice for young people diagnosed with chronic illnesses. -- Ingram

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 176 pages
• Publisher: Free Spirit Pub (July 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1575420414
• ISBN-13: 978-1575420417
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (3 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #935,552 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars "Help and Hope" could not be more true, February 10, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Young People and Chronic Illness (Paperback)

This book is a touching piece which puts a human face on the many stories of dealing with chronic disease. It can--and should--be read not only by the families and friends of children who deal daily with chronic disease and adversity, but also by all of us whose actions have the ability to touch another's life.

This book is a straightforward way to see the thoughts and feelings behind the brave face put on by so many children with chronic disease, and I am a better person for having read it. Many cheers to Ms. Huegel and her team for wonderful work.

Young People and Chronic Illness should be required reading for pre-med and children's service personnel the world over.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars This book is great., January 20, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Young People and Chronic Illness (Paperback)

"This is one of the most insightful and thought provoking books that I have ever read on chronic diseases. It delves into the the private recesses of human emotion and accurately describes the uncertainty and fear that all of us with chronic diseases suffer. It is the first book that I have read that departs from the typical medical/technical babble to address the human side of the equation and, further, it speaks to the youngest people affected. I would recommend this book strongly not only to those who have to deal with this issue, but also to those who care about people dealing with chronic disease -- and who among us does not fall into that category."

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Touching and Inspirational Look at Chronic Illness, April 14, 1999

By 

[e-mail] (Minneapolis, MN) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Young People and Chronic Illness (Paperback)

Once we reach adulthood, I think we often forget how difficult it is to be "different" as children. Ms. Huegel's book was truly inspirational, and although ideal for individuals and families dealing with chronic illness, its message of hope is inspirational to everyone. I highly recommend this book- you'll truly be touched by the children you'll meet and their stories, eloquently presented by Ms. Huegel's professional yet surprisingly personal writing style.