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Books and More
Many Polio Survivors need two different size shoes to make a pair which is a costly proposition. To our knowledge, there is only one major department store that enables a person with a major difference in their shoe sizes to pay for only one pair of shoes, one of each size to accommodate them. Our heartfelt thanks and gratitude goes to NORSTROM DEPARTMENT STORES (No, we are not getting paid to advertise for them.)
A large shopping center in our area was recently taken over and remodeled. Sylvia and I were so impressed by the improvements that we went to the maagement's office to thank them for making the mall so accessible and user friendly. They told us that we were the first and only patrons that had taken the time to do this. The new mall owner is Westfield Shoppingtowns. If you have the same kind of pleasant experience in your area, take a moment to let them know that their efforts are appreciated
We took the opportunity to ask if they had any influence over the major deparment stores in the mall because none of them had followed the new management's example. Unfortunately we were told that stores like Robinson-May, Sears and others own the stores they occupy and that the mall can not pressure them to follow their example. We have complained many times to people we were told were "management" in the stores about their doors from the parking area that are too heavy to be opened if a person is using a scooter or wheelchair and that in certain departments the displays are set up so that one does not realize they will become trapped when they start following a path that does not have an outlet. So far our concerns have not been addressed.
If anyone knows of another major business that has a similar policy to assist people with similar problems we would like to know about them and will then list them here as well
NEW: I recently received a catalogue that I think many will find helpful for clothing and accessories for wheelchair users. Most clothing does not have the flexability one needs, where we need it, when using a manual wheelchair unless you buy a size larger than what you would otherwise need and therfore can look bumpy and lumpy. This does not help one's self esteem. These cloths are made to give you that extra flexability. Take a look for yourself.
RECOMMENDED BOOKS
Fibromyalgia & Chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome
A Survival Manual
by Devin Starlanyl, M.D, Mary Ellen Copeland, M.S, M.A.
From The Publisher
Fibromyalgia & Chronic Myofascial Pain Syndrome offers the first comprehensive patient guide for managing these conditions. You'll start by learning what FMS and MPS are, evaluating your own symptoms, and identifying the tender and/or trigger points that are crucial for treating them. The manual covers chronic pain, sleep problems, and other "internal affairs," shows you how you can use your mind to counteract physical symptoms and the numbing effects of "fibrofog," and provides an extensive set of healing tools - including information on the latest medications, a nutritional program, and tips for using bodywork and other less commonly known treatments. Its comprehensive survival strategies include suggestions for coping with family and work situations, getting support, and dealing with the health care system.
Reviews
From Library Journal
An estimated 26 million Americans have either fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS), myofascial pain syndrome (MPS), or both in the form of an FMS/MPS complex. The volume by Starlanyl, a physician who specializes in the research and treatment of FMS/MPS and who has both conditions, and Copeland, a writer and FMS/MPS patient, discuss all aspects of both disorders. They also offer information on the latest medications, tips for bodywork, and suggestions for coping with family and work, getting support, and dealing with the healthcare system. Appendixes include lists of agencies and organizations and of audio and video aids. Both books are recommended for consumer health collections, but if only one can be purchased, Starlanyl and Copeland's work has the edge due to its greater scope and more comprehensive coverage.Janet M. Coggan, Univ. of Florida Libs., Gainesville
NOTE: This book is available through your Public Library facility. I am personally going to order a copy I can keep however, because it is an excellant resource book. It does not seem to be available at the Discount book link on this site, but it is available through the Barnes and Noble link. I found that they have the softcover version for $15.96.
HEALING THE BLUES: Drug-Free Psychotherapy for Depression
by Dorothea Nudelman
HEALING THE BLUES: Drug-Free Psychotherapy for Depression, illustrates a therapy process for anyone suffering from a chronic physical or mental problem. Dorothea Nudelman conquered polio in childhood and lived a full life until Post-Polio Syndrome struck, threatening her hard-won health. David Willingham is the therapist to whom Dorothea turned in anguish. Between them they worked through Dorothea's depression, renewing her spirit.
Although drugs have become popular in the '90s, Healing the Blues offers no "magic pill"-only careful examination of reality, work, tears, laughter, and hope. In alternating chapters by both participants, it reads like a novel, unfolding the mysteries of psychotherapy-from initial anguish to final acceptance and joy.
"Healing the Blues shows that it is not enough to come to terms with the past. The limitations are in the present and the losses to come must also be accepted." Mary Jane Moffat, author of In The Midst of Winter.
"It is a story filled with edifying suffering, flinty fortitude, and wise and soulful humor. The immediacy of the dialogue draws us right into the heart of the consulting room." John S. McGovern, Ph.D., Clinical Psychologist, Stanford University School of Medicine.
From Survivor's "Afterword"
Therapy doesn't cure crippling although it helps to heal the "wounds" so mind and body and emotions can co-exist. I now have access to all of my feelings. I "came home" to my body exactly as it is. I learned to understand and cherish myself better. . . .
While I still fear falling, I have learned to handle this danger differently. . . . I no longer take unnecessary risks to prove that I can do anything. So I no longer spend huge amounts of energy on fear. I can spend that energy being more honest and open with my husband and myself. I can accept his help when he offers it or request his help when I need it. . . . I am learning the wisdom of acceptance.
From Therapist's "Preface"
Dorothea tells eloquently of the struggle she had with depression. In the process she graphically recounts the terrifying experience of childhood poliomyelitis and her courageous journey to overcome its aftermath in order to live a full and dynamic life.
She resolved a persistent depression, but more, she uncovered and reclaimed portions of a rich life which had been filed away as too painful to contemplate.
I believe that the emotional disturbances of depression. . . are more than clusters of symptoms to be eliminated. Contained within them is information that may be vital to the further development and maturation of the individual. This book describes an experience of finding the meaning behind a depression through conversations which had a powerful impact on one person's life.
*Dorothea Nudelman has signed copies available for $14, including shipping, and handling. Remember to include your full mailing address. Send check or money order to:
Dorothea Nudelman
170 Cherokee Way
Portola Valley, CA 94028
Call (650) 851-2857, or e-mail: Nudelman@earthlink.net
Thoughts ADA & You
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