The Complete Bedside Companion - by Rodger McFarlane & Philip Bashe (Paperback)

About the Book

Drawing from the experiences of caretakers of the seriously ill--and the knowledge of medical, legal, financial, and psychological experts--this guide shows how to keep on an even keel while making a loved one's last days as comforable and fulfilling as possible. Line drawings & charts.

Book Synopsis

Nursing a parent, spouse, other relative, or friend through the painful progress of a terminal disease is not a road best traveled alone. The Complete Bedside Companion offers warmth, encouragement, and the medical, legal, financial, and emotional advice you need when caring for an ailing loved one.
Drawing on the experiences of dozens of ordinary people who have cared for relatives and friends ill or dying from cancer, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, stroke, emphysema, diabetes, AIDS, and other serious conditions -- along with the practical wisdom of distinguished medical, legal, financial, and psychological experts -- this sound, compassionate guide provides field-tested advice on every aspect of caring for the sick including:

• Doing battle with insurance companies
• Managing symptoms such as nausea or pain
• Exploring experimental and alternative therapies
• Maintaining cash flow and coping with bills

From the Back Cover

Nursing a parent, spouse, other relative, or friend through the painful progress of a terminal disease is not a road best traveled alone. The Complete Bedside Companion offers warmth, encouragement, and the medical, legal, financial, and emotional advice you need when caring for an ailing loved one.

Drawing on the experiences of dozens of ordinary people who have cared for relatives and friends ill or dying from cancer, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, stroke, emphysema, diabetes, AIDS, and other serious conditions -- along with the practical wisdom of distinguished medical, legal, financial, and psychological experts -- this sound, compassionate guide provides field-tested advice on every aspect of caring for the sick, including:
-- Doing battle with insurance companies
-- Managing symptoms such as nausea or pain
-- Exploring experimental and alternative therapies
-- Maintaining cash flow and coping with bills

Review Quotes

Dick Scanlan Poz magazine This "how-to" with heart is a must-buy for any potential caregiver or any care receiver.

Diane Blum Executive Director, Cancer Care, Inc. This is an outstanding book, full of practical advice, warmth, and guidance. It is an essential guide for anyone who is striving to provide physical care and emotional support to a loved one.

Mike Maza The Dallas Morning News This is the best all-around guide we've seen about helping others cope with serious illness while still taking care of yourself.

About the Author

Rodger McFarlane, one of America's most respected consumer advocates for the sick, currently directs collaborative research between the American Association of Health Plans and Lotus (IBM), evaluating experimental medical treatments on behalf of customers of the managed care industry. He is the former Executive Director of the Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.