Hospital Gowns Don't Have Pockets!
Why Me What Now?
Struggling with Physical Affliction
by Leona Choy
"Nobody doesn't need this book!" I may convince myself that illnesses, accidents and surgeries only happen to other people. However, most of us don't live out our lives without a hospital experience of some sort. Few reach Medicare age without outpatient or inpatient events--a biopsy, -oscopy, x-ray, blood profile or other diagnostic "goodies." It comes with the package of living our mortal life in our "Earth Suit".
Cheer up! Hospitals are ideal places not only for bodily repair but excellent classrooms for soul-searching and life evaluation.
This book explores meaning in physical affliction for the Christian. The principles are equally applicable to illnesses that don't necessarily lead to hospitalization. The author takes the reader from initial questions and struggles of illness through "hospital adventures" and the potholes and adjustments of recovery. At the end of each chapter, the author offers thoughtful "Personal Workout" questions for reflection or group discussion based on topics just covered. Ideal for a support group or personal study.
The reader will explore questions like: Who caused my illness, God or Satan? What did I do to deserve this? Can God heal me? Will He? Should I exercise faith, oppose the devil, and refuse to accept my illness? Could my life be over? Is this a test from God? What's the worst case scenario? For what purpose might God be bringing this experience into my life? Is my illness a friend or an enemy? Why does God seem so far away when I need Him most? What if I can't get through this?
The author maintains that God has a purpose for every experience He permits us to go through. She includes a "Back of the Book" section for readers to make sure their faith in God is intact when they march through hospital doors. Also included are forms for Living Will decisions and other valuable resources.
A major part of the book deals with the recovery period in which the author shares sound biblical, psychological and health counsel with a hint of humor. "What ifs" are met head on. No pussy-footing over questions like "What happens if I have to live an un-whole life without freedom from pain for the rest of my life?" "How can I please God and be useful to Him gazing at the ceiling from my bed?"
The author knows how to walk in hospital slippers. Her first encounter with the O.R. was a "biggy"--lung cancer surgery--"out of the blue." A life-changing learning experience, she claims in hindsight, that has proved invaluable.
The text is enhanced by the cartoon-like illustrations of artist Gail Waeber, who created "GG the Bunny" especially for Leona's book. He hops through the pages with the reader attended by "Miss Meow" the nurse--an charming, light touch for a book that struggles through serious matters.
Some chapter titles are: Jumping Over Hurdles; No Wheeling or Dealing; Dancing in Bed; Are We Having Fun Yet? Going Through Spiritual College; Is There Life After Hospital?; Oil in My Water; Bench Warming Lessons; Can I Add Cubits?
An invaluable volume for . . . everyone!
See Leona's new "A Taste Of...." book Are You Mad at Me, God? Jumping Illness Hurdles, setting forth important spiritual principles of working through an illness. These are excerpts from the first section of her book Hospital Gowns.
ISBN 1-889283-04-5
Receive a 50% discount when you purchase this book this month!
E-mail Leona: leonachoy@comcast.net
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