MD

Dr. Richardson advises us to avoid or minimize red meat, butter,
cheese and to reduce milk consumption. In addition, he stresses
that we should have realistic weight loss goals, reduce smoking
and reduce alcohol. Recommended dietary supplements are aloe,
Ca., capsicum, chamomile, CO Q 10 enzyme, cranberry,
echinacea, flaxseed, garlic, ginger, ginseng, gingko biloba,
grapeseed extract, licorice,peppermint and psyllium.
He indicates that sleep apneas can precipitate heart arrhythmias.
There is an important section dealing with arthritis. The author
explains that the Cox-2 inhibitors are safer than aspirin for
reducing inflammation. Dr. Richardson explains how chlamydia
are an infectious agent in plaque. In addition, the C-reactive
protein is a marker for inflammation. Special tests indicating
an increase in homosystein levels are causative factors in
blood clots. The author explains how magnets influence pain signals transmitted in sensory nerves. In addition, general
magnetic fields alter electrical impulse conduction.

Peak flow devices and meter dose inhalers measure and monitor
air flow. These assist patients in maintaining breathing
capacity/function. This work is a treasure chest of medical
knowledge which is a "must read" for your personal medicinal
library.

The book could be considered as a guide toward offering sick loved ones our healing presence. This guidance is valid for anyone relating to someone who is sick and is just as helpful to doctors, nurses and counselors as it is to family members and anyone who has a loved one who is sick.

A quote from page three says "This book will guide you toward offering sick loved ones your healing presence. By learning to ask them exactly how they're suffering and help them express their feelings thoroughly, you'll encourage an atmosphere of honesty. You'll move toward a perspective in which whatever happens physically, the emotional turmoil surrounding it will settle. All involved will benefit from increasing serenity."

I found especially helpful Jeff's discussion of how sick people suffer. He talks about really listening to their suffering and hearing their fears, anxieties, confusion, depression and rages. He says "I learned that people get emotional when they're sick and that fear and anger and despair aren't abnormal; they're a natural feature of sickness. In fact, I'd worry about the mental health of sick people who weren't affected by their consequent feelings. Hearing many hundreds of stories, I gradually learned that people don't generally suffer from their disease as much as from their emotions, the reactions their disease ignites in them." (page seven)

The rest of the chapters in the book are just as juicy and relevant as the above examples. In "Speaking With TLC", Jeff encourages speaking (only after much listening) with truth, leanness and compassion. He gives examples and practical questions to ask ourselves to pass the "TLC" test.

My two favorite chapters are "Welcoming Mystery" and "Healing Yourself". The first deals with the existential questions that illness can stir and the second with "continual" self care. What profound encouragement both offer for living in this world.

I truly enjoyed reading this book (and have read several sections more than once). The wonderful stories of courage and healing inspired me to be a better listener, a better friend and even a better person. Thank you Jeff.