Powerlessness
Powerlessness Faye I. Hummel This was the first time … When I woke up the other morning I couldn’t get out of bed. I couldn’t believe it … my body,…
Family Caregiving
Family Caregiving Linda L. Pierce Barbara J. Lutz INTRODUCTION Few adults receive paid homecare services. Outside support is not always welcome. Caregivers often refuse help and resources, as they may…
Quality of Life
Quality of Life Victoria Schirm INTRODUCTION This chapter focuses on quality of life for the more than 133 million Americans who live with chronic illness and their families. Emphasis is…
Uncertainty
Uncertainty Faye I. Hummel The words of the radiologist, “it’s breast cancer,” rang through my head over and over again as I sat in silence, alone, trying to make sense…
Body Image
Body Image Diana Luskin Biordi Patricia McCann Galon INTRODUCTION Of all the prisms through which culture can be viewed, body image is one of the most prevalent and profound. From…
Social Isolation
Social Isolation Diana Luskin Biordi Nicholas R. Nicholson INTRODUCTION Most of us actively seek human companionship or relationships. The lives of hermits or cloistered, solitary existences are extraordinary because they…
Adaptation
Adaptation Pamala D. Larsen Faye I. Hummel INTRODUCTION Persons with chronic illness chart a life course to successfully navigate the challenges that are inherent within themselves, their relationships, or the…
