The Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto - by Julie Stachowiak (Paperback)

About the Book

Winner of a 2009 Foreword Reviews Book of the Year Award
Written for all people with MS, regardless of the type, severity of symptoms, gender, age, or time since diagnosis, "The Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto: Action to Take, Principles to Live By" contains critical information organized under "action" statements and using examples of how this information can most effectively be used to help the readers. Author Julia Stachowiak, who was diagnosed with the disease in 2004, has crafted a road map that not only provides encouragement but also offers education and motivation for readers. In 12 chapters, Stachowiak covers every aspect of an activist MS life, from large concepts like gaining confidence, motivating others, and taking control to practical tools like constructing an MS identity, exploring complementary and alternative treatments, and learning about the rights and responsibilities that come with the condition. In the process, she offers readers with MS a chance to transform both the medical and healthcare industries and themselves.

Book Synopsis

An empowering guide for increasing your quality of life, navigating challenges, and embracing opportunities

Julie Stachowiak, PhD is the About.com Guide to Multiple Sclerosis. As an epidemiologist who is also a person living with MS, Julie has an in-depth understanding about the scientific developments around MS and the personal side of living with a chronic illness. In the Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto, Julie shows you how to create your own personal MS manifesto and provides practical tools and reassurance to help you Ïget betterÓ in your life, from optimizing medical care and managing symptoms, to strengthening relationships, dealing with emotions, and embracing activism.

Committed to making the hard parts easier and the good parts last longer, Julie show you how to figure out what you need, identify opportunities, understand challenges, and get your needs met. With the Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto, youÌll know how to:

• Create your personal mission statement
• Protect yourself by learning more about medications you are currently taking or considering to take
• Determine what you want in a doctor and how to evaluate the doctor you have
• Celebrate your successes√õand why it√ås essential that you do
• Make disclosing your MS status to friends, family and others easier
• Find a support group

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Review Quotes

"This a call-to-arms for those living with multiple sclerosis to take control of their lives and be empowered by someone living with MS...With a conversational but authoritative voice, this book is a positive joy to read..."--Library Journal

"Intelligent, empowering, and realistic are just some of the words that describe Julie Stachowiak's book, "Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto." A person living with MS, an epidemiologist, an advocate, and a writer for ms.about.com, Julie Stachowiak knows all too well the emotional and physical struggles MS can bring to daily life. Armed with many years of knowledge and firsthand expertise, Stachowiak has, in her book, put together a wonderful testament to coping with MS.

... honest, straightforward, and at times humorous, Stachowiak offers practical advice about the many obstacles one will inevitably encounter while living with a chronic illness...Chapters are easy to read, but it's Stachowiak's unique writing style, knowledge, and carefully thought-out presentation of the material that makes navigating through the pages simple and thoroughly enjoyable."--MSFocus

..".If you are newly diagnosed, a caregiver, or have had MS for many years, she covers a multitude of different topics regarding MS...Overall, I found this book to be informative and uplifting. It's a MUST read!"--"Rocky Mountain MS Center"

"I wish this book was around when I was first diagnosed with MS. It is straightforward, honest and practical. A must for anyone living with MS."--Amelia Davis President of MS Friends, and author of "My Story: A Photographic Essay On Life With Multiple Sclerosis"

"The "Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto" is a significant resource for people living with MS. ...also demonstrates how people can address those issues individually and collectively to improve the world for themselves and others."--David Chatel Executive Vice President of Advocacy, National Multiple Sclerosis Society

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