Basics of anatomy and physiology are given in an interesting way, along with numerous facts related to health and wellness. Quotes from literary and historical sources, along with numerous personal stories by the authors and other survivors and caretakers, bring the hard facts home. As a family and health psychologist and a nurse practitioner, I was pleased to see the integration of the psychological and family aspects of cardiac health. Seligman's work on the importance of optimism is cited, along with very good guidelines related to family members taking care of themselves and the myriad of emotions that are likely to get triggered along the way. This is a user-friendly book that can be read cover to cover or as a reference book, depending upon the readiness and current need of the reader. Both survivor's and caretakers are likely to resonate with Surviving with Heart in terms of being understood and that others have walked their journey.
Very practical suggestions are provided related to sex, exercise, nutrition, stress management and shifting to a heart healthy lifestyle. Since heart disease often presents differently in women, a section is devoted to this area. I have recommended this book to psychology, nursing, and physician colleagues as well as to clients and friends. For healthcare providers who enjoy partnering with their patients in their care, this is a book well worth recommending.
Darrell was in his late forties when he had his triple bypass operation. Ellen's father was in his early seventies when he had a quadruple bypass. Suddenly, two people who had never given a thought to heart disease prevention began the work of becoming heart experts. For Darrell, that meant managing his treatment plan, recognizing the body's warning signals, adopting a healthier diet, exercising regularly, and more. For Ellen, that meant being a caretaker to her father in the early days, then moving into the role of caregiver with him-the latter a role in which she used her newfound knowledge to help her father take charge of his recovery. It also meant preserving her own physical and emotional health during the challenging times ahead.
Surviving with Heart provides detailed and current information on heart disease. It also empowers readers to adopt a survivor's attitude through motivating personal stories of loss and recovery. In a reader-friendly style, the book helps people make choices that improve their odds of long-term survival.