Leaning Into Sharp Points - by Stan Goldberg (Paperback)

About the Book

"Statistics show that at least once in almost everyones life, they will become a caregiver. Though an estimated 35 million currently provide care for someone terminally or chronically ill, those who accept this responsibility often feel alone in a frightening foreign land. Whether visiting occasionally or caregiving 24/7, they are brushing up against lifes sharpest point. As only one who has been there can, author Stan Goldberg offers an honest, caring, and comprehensive guide to those on this journey. Everyone wants to "do the right thing" and this is the often-illusive how-to-from bedside etiquette and practical decisions to initiating difficult conversations, navigating rapid changes, caring for oneself in the midst of caring for another, and even offering "permission" to die. Because death is a process, not an event, Goldberg also addresses the caregivers recovery, including their recovery of joy"--Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

Whether you're coping with a loved one who has received a terminal diagnosis, has a long-term illness or disability, or suffers with dementia, caregiving is challenging and crucial. Those who face this responsibility, whether occasionally or 24/7, are brushing up against life's sharpest point. In this book, Stan Goldberg offers an honest, caring, and comprehensive guide to those on this journey. Everyone wants to "do the right thing," and this book provides the often-elusive how-to -- from bedside etiquette to advice on initiating difficult conversations, caring for oneself while caring for another, navigating rapid changes in your loved one's condition, and even offering "permission" for them to die. Goldberg's stories demonstrate how to address the most difficult topics and will facilitate more open and useful communication and caregiving.

Review Quotes

"Gentle and supportive, Stan Goldberg's essential book should stay on your nightstand throughout the long process from diagnosis to death. You will turn to it again and again for practical, crucial guidance that you will use immediately, and often."
-- Dianne Gray, board member, Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Foundation

"Stan Goldberg brings wisdom and personal experience as a caregiver and hospice volunteer to this compassionate and honest guide to providing care for the chronically or terminally ill. Written from the perspective of both the caregiver and the one who is receiving the care, it is a sensitive, rich, and often compelling resource."
-- Andy Miller, MHSE, MCHES, executive vice president of mission, LIVESTRONG

"Stan Goldberg, through keen observation and personal experience, gives the reader valuable insights and practical advice on what to expect and how to survive one of life's most challenging experiences."
-- Gloria C. Horsley, PhD, president and founder, Open to Hope Foundation, and coauthor of Open to Hope

About the Author

Stan Goldberg, PhD, has been a hospice volunteer and caregiver for many years. His previous book, Lessons for the Living, won the London Book Festival's Grand Prize in 2009 and was featured in Best Buddhist Writing 2010. A private therapist, clinical researcher, and former San Francisco State University professor, he lives in San Francisco.