Two relevant books about caregiving & personal experiences

Some current books available somehow related to this:

The selfish pig’s guide to caring by Hugh Marigott

Okay, so this book seems really interesting because it has an informal, direct, and open way of not just communicating the writer’s journey of being unprepared for caring but also touching on subjects that are relatable and applicable to many who might find themselves in the same boat. It has a nonchalant air to the writing but I like its clarity in what the book is NOT about. Stating he’s not a medical practitioner nor psychologist nor it’s a how to care, but instead lessons, learnings and reflections that hopefully resonate. The book has got 247 ratings, most of 4.5 stars on Amazon and some of the comments include:

“This self-help manual is a delightful change of pace for the caregiver. With humor & practicality, Mr. Marriott provides understanding & support for anyone who’s dealing with the frustrations & stress of being a primary carer for an ill loved one.”

“Common sense different book for the 24/7 care-giver. This is a must. He writes and has a bit of humor woven into the very helpful chapters. It is not like other books which dwell on the legalities. He tells what to expect, what you may feel, and options for dealing with the issues and stress…all in a caring way. He lived it himself so he knows what it is like”

“This book was written from the caregiver’s point of view and I really liked that a lot. There is almost nothing out there that speaks to the person doing this lonely job. “

“This book helped me realize I was not alone. I would recommend it to anyone who cares for anyone especially a spouse. “

“First time in a few month of my caring life I was able to laugh at myself and put things in perspective. My piglet (Person I Give Endless Love and Therapy) is sleeping 🙂 I got stronger. “

Things I Wish I’d Known: Cancer Caregivers Speak Out 

by Deborah J. Cornwall

Family caregivers are the unsung heroes of the life-saving drama that’s triggered by a cancer diagnosis. Nearly three quarters of American households will find themselves caring for a cancer patient at one point in their lives. This book is the first to capture their thoughts, feelings, and insights on a large scale.  It is based on 101 formal interviews with non-professional caregivers (some of whom are cancer survivors themselves), covering 122 patients in 19 states and Canada.

This book also has 4.5 stars, on Amazon including comments like:

“Wasn’t what I was looking for. I needed support advice. My Sister had stage 4 pancreatic cancer and she was extremely angry. I needed help understanding the stages and how to help support her. As well as help me not get upset with her for yelling.”

“Deborah J. Cornwall eases the guilt of the compassionate caregiver who may have begun to resent their role even as their concer-stricken loved one struggles with life and death. In “Things I Wish I’d Known: Cancer Caregivers Speak Out, the stories of those who have been there elegantly portray the struggles of those powerless in the face of watching a loved one so ill”

“Deborah J. Cornwall eases the guilt of the compassionate caregiver who may have begun to resent their role even as their concer-stricken loved one struggles with life and death. In “Things I Wish I’d Known: Cancer Caregivers Speak Out, the stories of those who have been there elegantly portray the struggles of those powerless in the face of watching a loved one so ill”

Observation:

Based on the research of books available these two seem to be the most relevant in the act of caring, one centred in cancer cancer and the other one in general unpaid care. I have found both extremely interesting in terms of approaches as they’re varied, I will read both to have a better conclusion on it- however, from the examples and comments they both seem to be books responding to a community who is truly in need of targeted support books.