Parkinsons-Disease Books

I was amazed at what an excellent writer Michael J. Fox is -- his story was candidly written with insightful accounts of his incredible journey. I was also impressed that the proceeds from the book all go to research for a cure for Parkinson's disease. Way to go, Michael!

I bought this book on the recommendation of my Medical Terminology teacher. We were discussing neurological diseases and when we got to Parkinson's Disease (PD) she mentioned that she had read his book and how much she enjoyed it. So I got it. I was not a huge "Family Ties" fan but I have paid attention to Michael J. Fox's career especially of late since his disclosure of having PD. In the last few years he has been on a show here and there as a guest. He was on Boston Legal and I thought he was superb! You could clearly see that the camera did not stay on him very long but his acting was top-notch nonetheless.

That said, his book is written with extreme openness, heart and humor. He has such a wonderful outlook on life especially in the wake of learning he has PD. He writes from a place that we wish more stars would be able to go - the very sincerest depth of his being - so much so that I found myself in tears a few times as I read. He writes as if he were telling you, the reader, the story in person. He is himself more in this book than I've ever seen him in an interview on TV. This is a very true, revealing, heart-warming story that definitely gives the definition of what it takes to be considered a Lucky Man today. I highly recommend the book.

Michael J. Fox opens his 2002 memoir in late 1990, in the moment he first notices the pinky-finger tremor that leads, a year later at age 30, to a diagnosis of Young Onset Parkinson's Disease (PD).

Then he backs up for a hundred pages to describe his growing-up years in Canada and rising-star experiences in Hollywood -- including an interesting theory of "celebrity" (that it is a gone-haywire extension of the suspension of disbelief/emotional connection that are required of an audience during a performance). He devotes chapters to his PD diagnosis and treatment (including his concealment of it) and to his descent into career and personal crisis. Though it seems PD would top his list of problems then, he notices it doesn't even make the list which includes alcoholism. Fox finishes by describing his redemption, his "coming out" about PD, and his work toward PD research.

The memoir's structure and writing exceeded my expectations and I wondered about a ghostwriter -- until I read Fox's acknowledgements, where he mentions the writing of it and thanks his writing-mentor brother-in-law ... Michael ("Omnivore's Dilemma") Pollan! Lucky Man is an informative, engaging, and insightful memoir.

I wasn't sure what to expect from this book. Would it be just about Michael J Fox's life or would it center too much on his Parkinson's disease. I'm not usually big on reading celebrity autobiographies and memoirs.
This one is definitely worth reading! Mr. Fox shares his story with humor and humility and a wonderful honesty. He speaks honestly about his struggles with Parkinson's and trying to hide it in order to continue working. He also speaks honestly about his personal struggles with alcohol and depression. But the struggles don't dominate the book. There are many fun anecdotes about his years growing up in Canada and about the world of acting.
In the end, what made the biggest impression on me was his gratitude. Gratitude for the life he was able to have as an actor, for his family, and ultimately, even for the disease that changed his life.
This is a book that I would recommend for anyone who is interested in celebrity biographies. And I would especially recommend it for anyone who has Parkinson's disease or has a family member or friend who has this disease. When you have a disease such as this, it can be difficult to articulate to others just what it is you go through without sounding sorry for yourself.
Now when I need to explain this to someone, I can just hand them this book and say, "READ IT. NOW."
Thanks, Mr. Fox!!

Michael J. Fox's memoir "Lucky Man" is a great and inspiring read. One thing I admire about Fox is that he's basically an average guy who was dealt some wild cards and has managed to thrive in life - including, not in spite of, his circumstances. One thing I found consistently striking and inspiring is Fox's courage throughout all of his life experiences to be true to himself. In some instances, this meant following his natural instincts in his career, and in others it meant hiding his disease from the public as a delicately-timed and balanced lifestyle. His honesty and lack of pretension is also refreshing; he talks not only of the Hollywood lifestyle he had when his career took off, but also of his self-doubts and fears.

If you were also inspired by this honest perspective on enjoying life to
the fullest, I highly recommend the books Being Here: Modern Day Tales of Enlightenment, as well as Working on Yourself Doesn't Work: The 3 Simple Ideas That Can Instantaneously Transform Your Life, by Ariel & Shya Kane. The Kanes talk specifically about living in the moment as a way of discovering magic in your life - how to do it, how to not do it, and how it is easy and effortless. In his book, Fox talks about how "his 'job' is whatever he happens to be doing at the moment - whether it's giving a speech, changing a diaper, writing a book," etc. If you'd like to discover a sense of truly being here for each moment and living your life as wholly as possible (without having to experience a major tragedy or disease), look no further than these wonderful books.

By now what might be called the deadly-disease memoir is a standard literary genre: the successful, happy man or woman laid low by a fatal ailment, soldiering on against all odds. Thomas Graboys' new book about living with Parkinson's disease silences cynicism about yet another entry into the sweepstakes. Besides being a man of much more than average gifts, material wealth, looks and success, he writes from the perspective of someone whose entire identity was shaped by being a medical doctor, a brilliant cardiologist, someone whose life's work was to take care of others. All this is now lost to him and he admits, with frequently bruising candor, the emotional cost to him and his family.

Dr. Graboys' particular case of Parkinson's, as he explains, involves actual dementia, and although the book was written with the aid of a co-author, nevertheless the signs of mental difficulty are evident in the short-windedness and occasional repetitiveness of the writing. Several dozen pages are devoted not to Graboys' own writing but to passages contributed by his siblings, his children and their in-laws, passages the author did not screen in advance of their inclusion. What would be defects in another book here are in themselves touching, clear evidence of the author's ongoing struggle to maintain some sense of self-worth and productivity. He does not spare himself, dissecting in painful detail the ravages his progressive disease, and his occasional denial of its seriousness, has inflicted on his second marriage. (He did not reveal to his spouse at the time of his wedding that he was already suffering from Parkinson's, and it is perhaps significant that his wife does not contribute any writing of her own.) By the end of this volume the reader is shattered, drained, but also moved and uplifted by Dr. Graboys' resilience and optimism in the face of the darkest odds.

I was inspired by reading Dr. Graboy's story. The one thing I found disconcerting was his continued driving. I know he wants his independence but even if he drives only to two local places he could injure himself or someone else on the way.

Fascinating memoir of the same illnes my relative is enduring. I intend to share this with everyone i know who has a loved one with lewy body dementia. We must all live life to the fullest now, while are brains are healthy. Dr. Graboys' story is one of how love and humanity are possible beyond that, long into this illness. Beautiful!

Any general-interest library or health collection needs LIFE IN THE BALANCE: A PHYSICIAN'S MEMOIR OF LIFE, LOVE, AND LOSS WITH PARKINSON'S DISEASE AND DEMENTIA. The author is both a doctor and patient, at the peak of his career at age forty-nine when he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of Parkinson's and dementia. His memoir is revealing and insightful - and considers Parkinson's from the rare vantage point of both patient and doctor.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Tom Graboys offers sensitive and poignant insight into a devastating disease that afflicts millions as patients, family and caregivers. Being married to a fellow academic physician, world renowned and respected, who suffers from Parkinsonism, I miss my spouse's wise counsel as the "go-to"- person described by Graboys, who continues to be a comforting, wise healer. This book fills that gap a bit by honestly describing the agony of the disease and how to cope with certain loss of self as previously known.

I have a previous book by the same author. I have yet to use it, and will probably do the same with this one. The reason is simple. I don't want to have to go out and buy about 6 Yoga blankets, bolsters, folding chairs and belts, ropes and other items that are pictured in order to do most of the positions. If I had all these items, thinking of where to store them all and the thought of dragging them out every day in order to do my exercises is a complete turn off to me and my aging body.

Suza Francina's book "The New Yoga for Healthing Aging" is a must-have for anyone over 50 as well as for those of us who work with the aging baby boomer population. This book is chock full of inspiring photos of seniors in different asanas, sage advice and some sample routines. I can't believe that some of these people are over 90! Wow!

Francina is Iyengar-based, so many of the poses are shown with props and there is good information on how to use the props safely. In this book you can also find medical research and advice on using yoga for a variety of conditions including arthritis, osteoporosis, hip replacements, alzheimer's and parkinsons. Many of the seniors in the book share their stories on how yoga has helped them with their issues, and this can be very encouraging for people who may be fearful of trying yoga.

Especially helpful are the suggestions for getting up and down from the floor and the section on teaching seniors. Any teacher who works with the aging population will find these parts invaluable! I hope that this book can not only help me to be mindful of my teaching skills but also about my own aging body.

As a brand new yoga teacher (at age 62), I find Suza Francina's latest book, "The New Yoga for Healthy Aging", to be a great resource. I teach in the 55+ community where I live, so many of my students have health challenges. I often refer to the chapters on teaching seniors, as well as those dealing with specific health issues, like hip replacement (I have two in class), arthritis and osteoporosis. I also like to share quotes from Suza and the other senior teachers featured in her book with my students. I highly recommend this book for new teachers and older students as well.

Carin Seebold, RYT

With the innumerable yoga books on the market and the attempts of companies trying to make a buck of the yoga boom I am leary of buying any products, including books, marketed for yoga. Also, from my own experiences I feel many reviews give an exaggerated view of the books.

However, this book is truly a good book. I am 49 yrs old and have been practicing yoga for almost 5 years, two to four times a day. I am constantly trying to find out more about books, DVDs, websites etc on yoga related items in order to improve and deepen my practice. I am glad I bought this one.

For someone who recovered from a severe and incapacitating lower back injury with the practice of yoga asanas, this book is a reaffirmation of my own experiences. Had I not taken to an asana pracitce, I know for a fact that my injury would have made a "cash cow" out of me for the "medical professionals" in our health care system. More importantly the book offers tremendous inspiration, hope and encouragement to the aging -- which includes all -- and people recovering from chronic pain. It does this by sketching the lives of those who have been practicing yoga asanas.

I assure you that if you are serious about your mental, physical and emotional health, and if you have had a year of yoga and want to give your practice a boost then this book will not let you down. It will confirm your realizations and build on them regarding the healing potential of yoga asanas. I have already bought two copies and will be buying numerous more to give to everyone I know. This will save them a lot of pain and suffering as they grow older, not to mention the expenses of a medical system that is absolutely out of control. In my opinion and experiences medical science itself is shallow and flawed despite the many sincere practitioners. People suffering from chronic ailments are a testimony to this claim.

The writer has done a very good job of writing this book. Thank you Suza.

"The New Yoga for Healthy Aging is one of the most exciting yoga books ever published. Its promise is one that millions of baby boomers will find comforting--that yoga is a natural prescription for reversing the aging process. The proof is in the lovely and inspiring photographs of yoga students in their later years in poses of beauty and strength. This outstanding resource addresses the common ailments of aging and is as encouraging as it is informative and practical. Suza Francina shows how even challenging yoga poses become "do-able" through the use of props and modifications. Her extensive knowledge and experience teaching yoga is evident and her wisdom and deep caring shine through her words and stories. "

---Peggy Cappy
Author, Yoga for All of Us, and creator of the popular video series Yoga for the Rest of Us, as seen on public television, and the guided relaxation audio CD series Deep Relaxation for the Rest of Your Life. www.peggycappy.com

There are a number of books out there for patients and families, and this is one of the best--required reading. Attitude is everything in this disorder, and Hope gives people the keys to a healthy one.

Phil Ballard MD

This book came out four or five years ago. It's gone through one revision, and I continue to give it out to friends.

Originally I read this as a person related to someone with Parkinsons - it had helped my mother deal with the challenge. But I heard from others that it was simply inspirational for anyone dealing with a long term health challenge.

I've bought this book 11 times now to give to people who need some light. And I hear time and again that that's happened - and that they get it for others.

Newsom is a real inspiration.

When I was put into the position of having to learn about Parkinson's disease, the first book I read was Hal Newsom's "HOPE". It is a fast read and easily understood. I learned a lot about PD and how attitude, exercise, drugs and nutrition are so important. A few months later I re-read "HOPE". What struck me the second time around was that the book improved with the second reading. Anyone who has PD should read this book. And, anyone who cares about or cares for someone with PD should also read it. It's one way to learn what goes on emotionally and spiritually with a PD patient, in addition to physically.

Absolutely the finest tool yet to give one the incentive to get up, get out and get busy. First rate.

This is a book that offers very PRACTICAL suggestions (because they are tried and true) ways to approach life at a time and in a circumstance when you might want to give up. It is POSITIVE without overlooking the problems and hurdles to overcome. It is PERSONAL as it depicts the adventures of a very talented and vital personality coping with a life of change and uncertainty.

Whether you have Parkinson's or not, whether you are a caregiver or not - this book will inspire you to approach life with a positive attitude and a practical application.

In Life Lines, Anthony Edey draws upon his experiences with Parkinson's Disease and Cancer to craft a poetry which is both serious and hilarious at the same time. Enhanced with line drawn illustrations by Iris Edey and a section of black & white photographs, the poetry comprising this slender volume is as unique as it is memorable. The Final Cure: I hear that I ought to tart smoking,/Just try a medicinal pack./Inhale all the nice levadopa/My little gray cells seem to lack.//I hear that the feeling-good factor/Is just what I'm missing of late./A packet of Gaulloise should fix it,/I'd happily asphyxiate.//It's really a strange contradiction/That smoking could see this thing off./Instead of a long life of shaking/I'd die nice and slow of a cough!//On balance it seems quite apparent,/The treatment is worse than the cure./Through Parkinson's may not be perfect,/It's better than smoking, for sure.

We think that the book is a real light that shines on the fundamental questions of life that many of us manage to ignore.

Life Lines, especially the poem about Sam, made us think again about what is important in our own lives.

Edey captures his feelings and shares his personal revelations with wit and humility as he goes through his acceptance of the diseases that have attacked his body....the art work that accompanies each poem was lovingly brought to life by his wife, a gifted artist. The book is a joy to read and upon which to reflect.

Anthony Edey has written a wonderful book to be appreciated by all, but particularly by those facing serious illness. The book shares humor and sensitivity, and demonstrates how keeping a positive perspective has allowed him to find hope for the future and cherish the simple blessings of everyday life. Parkinson's disease and cancer are tough challenges for anyone. The lesson Anthony teaches with this book is that they can readily be faced with the best medicines: positive thoughts, the love and support of friends and family, a fighting attitude and humor. Bravo, and thank you, Anthony!

Life Lines was meant as a double-entendre by Edey -- "life lines" as throwing them out to save someone drowning in adversity, and lines by the words used by this man who charismatically wrote about his experiences in being treated for skin cancer and Parkinson's Disease. We've heard actor Michael J. Fox talk publicly about his life with PD, and like Fox, Edey provides a service to those who read his words. In Life Lines, Edey takes a "that's life" attitude with his health issues, and makes us chuckle in the face of reality.

This was by far the most comprehensive, detailed and informative book on Parkinson's disease I have read.
The author is an Early On Set Parkinson's patient and yet, with support, has been able to continue to raise his family and work full-time at his job as Editor of the Los Angeles Times.

He thoroughly investigates medications and other medical proceedures available and their benefits and disadvantages, which I found extremely helpful- certainly more information than I received from any physician.

Further, the author discusses, with amazing frankness, his own physical and mental challenges, which takes it beyond pure information to a story of courage and personal growth.

Joel Havemann brings the journalist's practiced eye for detail, detachment and clarity of expression to the task of understanding, describing and coping with Parkinson's. He also allows his heart to speak and the result is a work that should be especially valuable to those who have themselves have recently received a Parkinson's diagnosis or who have a close relative or friend thus stationed.
The book offers clear and interestingly presented facts about the various drugs, treatments and hopeful research that become an integral part of having Parkinson's, as well as the historical and public policy context in which those elements have evolved in the centuries since the disease was first identified. There is just the right mix of facts, opinion and sometimes barely concealed disgust in Havemann's treatment of these matters.
As valuable as those chapters are, I think many will find Havemann's account of his personal odyssey and that of his family to be the more valuable aspect of his book. He is unstinting in his descriptions of the physical and mental effects of the disease and frank about his occasional failures to deal with those effects as effectively as he would like. He also spares little in telling of his fears about the disease's potential progress and what it could mean for him and his family.
I can't think of a better preparation for confronting the many challenges and crises that accompany the arrival of Parkinson's in the life of an individual and family. A Life Shaken is strongly recommended.

Other books about PD scared the heck out of me, but Havemann's sense of humor and indomitable spirit have changed my perspective. I'm not afraid anymore. Thank you Joel. The book is honest and straightforward. He describes what happens to a brain with PD so clearly that I finally understand it!

Author Joel Havemann weaves his own story of living with this progressive neurological disease with a clear and carefully researched explanation that ranges from symptoms and drugs to challenges and the outlook for a cure. "For an adventure it is - not one that I would have chosen, but an adventure all the same." Mr. Havemann, an editor with the Washington bureau of the Los Angeles Times, helps us look at the human brain and its intricate yet magnificent operation, and the disastrous consequences of even the simplest misfire. He has created an excellent reference guide for caregiver, family member and patient alike that affirms the paradox of our own frustrations and hopes for the future. We feel Mr. Havemann's determination to keep going for his family, anger at the debilitating symptoms, and belief that the scientific and medical communities will deliver an answer.

Mr. Havemann provides us with an incredibly personal view into Parkinson's disease. His wit, candor, and superb writing style draws the reader into his story to such a degree that it is difficult to disengage. While telling his story he concurrently entertains and educates the reader as to where medicine stands with regard to research and current treatment, and how individuals cope. I'm looking forward to his next work.

An excellent book. We've read many books about Parkinson's disease and this is by far the best. It's like an encyclopedia, arranged by topics, is clear and concise and answers almost all the questions you'll ever have about Parkinson's.

A relative has Parkinson's and I have tried to help out by researching issues that have come up. The Parkinson's patient and family who arm themselves with information about the many twists and turns in the course of this complicated and profound illness will fare better. You should not expect that the medical world will completely "take care of" the Parkinson's - a lot will be up to you, and you have to learn what to look for, the questions to ask, the possibilities. By the way, we live near Boston, one of the world's great medical centers, so what I am saying does not have to do with lack of access to the best care currently available. This book has been of tremendous practical value to us. I consider it essential for any Parkinson's family. It is easily the best Parkinson's resource I have found.

This book recommends using it to help discuss with your doctor the PD medications, which is exactly what my Mom is going to do today. When I saw this book recently it was what my Mom had been wishing for to help her figure out how to help my Dad, who is developing Parkinson's hallucinations and paranoia issues after many years of battling this disease. These are known problems from both the disease, as well as the medications to treat the illness. The book gave me renewed hope and optimism for helping my Dad be more himself again. Adjustments of the various prescribed medications can make a difference in life quality by balancing medication negative side effects with their benefits. My Mom is taking my Dad to the doctor today to discuss his medications and she taking this book with her. It's nice to know she has the Mayo clinic doctor, in essence, to take with her to discuss points with the local doctor.

Concerned daughter

This is a "MUST HAVE" book for the Parkinson's patient. This book is written in user friendly language. Provides insightful information to help understand your condition. Excellant guidance to the receipt of maximum drug therapy benefits. Recomended by Movement Disorder Specialist.

Dr. Ahlskog shares his vast knowledge, expertise and caring bedside manner in this book. It is specifically written, in user friendly language, for families dealing with Partinson's. It answers any and all questions one might have concerning the disease and treatment of it. It is an absolute 'MUST HAVE' book for Parkison's Families..

I am an energetic healer and medical intuitive. This book has been very beneficial to me. I can verify that the bacteria is there and can tell you that if you stimulate that part of the brain, like dust and debris, the bacteria will come off! I can't make claims about what will happen for others, I just know that I have been able to clear it out of those who have gone before. Time for my own research. See my class and support group on my website - www.healthyenergetics.net/choicepoint

Dr. Broxmeyer reveals some theories based on his years of research on Parkinson's disease that are exciting and interesting. Theories that need to be examined closer with funding and more sceientist. A cure needs to be found and Dr. Broxmeyer's theories seem very logical in regards to the cause. Once the cause can be determined the cure is not ususally too far away!

Dr. Broxmeyer reveals some theories based on his years of research on Parkinson's disease that are exciting and interesting. Theories that need to be examined closer with funding and more sceientist. A cure needs to be found and Dr. Broxmeyer's theories seem very logical in regards to the cause. Once the cause can be determined the cure is not ususally too far away!

Dr. Broxmeyer reveals some theories based on his years of research on Parkinson's disease that are exciting and interesting. Theories that need to be examined closer with funding and more sceientist. A cure needs to be found and Dr. Broxmeyer's theories seem very logical in regards to the cause. Once the cause can be determined the cure is not ususally too far away!

If Lawrence Broxmeyer is right about his theories on the possible causes of Parkinson's disease then a cure could follow. Who is looking further into his theories? It's scary to realize that a lot of possible causes to many diseases are dismissed and possibly controlled by the multi-million dollar pharmaceuticals that only look for what they want to find. Michael J. Fox needs to see this. Maybe his clout could initiate some action. My brother has Parkinson's and I can't stand watching him deteriorate, all possible causes and cures need to be pursued.

The book tells the story of GDNF, the miracle drug that cures all symptoms of Parkinson's disease, a dreaded progressive neurological illness. It discusses the pros and cons which made Amgen, the biotech company which holds the patent to the substance, halt phase II trials and refuse to give the drug to the patients who were in the trials despite their begging for it. The patients even sued for the drug, not money mind you, but Amgen squeezed out of it by showing that it had neither a written nor an oral contract with the patients to continue supplying them the drug. My only hope is that Amgen will find it in its heart to sell the rights to another company which is willing to go ahead with the trials and market the drug.

A powerful book that first moved me to tears, then to my Mac to fire off a letter to my Congressmen. A disconcerting indictment of the pharmaceutical industry in which Nelson proves that Amgen put the bottom line above the betterment of humanity. A great read. I couldn't put it down. This book is not just for people with Parkinson's but for all but the lucky few who won't be forced to rely on prescription drugs to maintain their lives.

My name is Maggie Kaufman. My husband is one of the Phase II trial participants in Nick Nelsons book, "Monkeys in the Middle." Nick spent a week in our home doing interviews with us as well as visiting with Martha Bohn with my husband Steve. This was quite an intense past couple of years for Steve and I. We developed a network of Parkinsons patients and found GDNF supporters all across the country and the world. We know or have talked to most of the patients in both the Phase I and Phase II trial and consider all of them our very close friends. Nick has captured each and every patients story with precision. This book is well written and very factual. Nick wrote this book responsibly taking no sides. As you read the stories of each patient and the stories of the investigators, I believe the truth comes out. The fact is, GDNF works. Just before they removed the drug from Steve's pumps, I actually forgot he was sick. He always forgot to take his regular PD medications and would do just fine. Prior to GDNF he would sit on the couch and shake very rigidly all night long barely getting any sleep at night. 9 months after having GDNF in his system he was walking on the beams while building our deck without any assistance whatsoever. If this isn't a testimonial I don't know what is. A Parkinsons patient cannot fake balancing on a beam! This proves there was no placebo affect.
When reading about the antibodies or the lesions on the Monkeys brains you need to pay special attention to the opinions of the trial investigators in this book. I am not a scientific person but I believe
with the evidence of migrating catheters (catheters becoming dislodged from the pumps sending the drug into the patients abodomen rather than the brain) causing antibodies (good or bad, no one knows) and the fact that immediate withdrawal of the drug caused lesions (just as when a doctor puts you on steriods and you start with a higher dosage down to the lowest level to be "weaned" off the drug), abrupt withdrawal of GDNF caused lesions in Monkeys brains at very high dosage levels. It just amazes us that Amgen turned a blind eye to this. But the reality of it was stated very clearly by Roger Perlmutter at Amgen. It was simply put that Amgen could not make any money on this drug. The cost of the surgery is too great and the hospitals do not have enough surgeons to do these surgeries. They'd rather do back surgeries turning patients more quickly thus making more money. In essence, it would be a hard sell to the hospitals to take on such a costly time consuming surgery. This is a sad state our country is in. Greed takes over in the end. We haven't stopped fighting, we never will. We now can only hope that Amgen wakes up and finally puts the patient first rather than lining their own pocketbooks.

I personally would like everyone to know that you can make a difference in this world. It only took a few emails and a few more phone calls to get the attention of the world. If you find something you strongly believe in, it may seem like a daunting task but you can make a difference. You just need to find the right ear to listen to you. It's really not that hard.

Nick does a very good job of showing how the patients and their caregivers have banded together to get the attention of the world. We will continue this fight and ask for your prayers of support to get GDNF back for our loved ones and I believe, to once and for all cure Parkinsons Disease.

Buy this book. It's worth reading to hear the true, heartbreaking stories of each patient. This is reality bookreading. This is our life.

This is a book that deserves a wide reading audience. It is exceptionally well-written and helps the reader understand why medical breakthroughs for diseases such as Parkinson's Disease often do not reach the patients.

Nelson's book, Monkeys in the Middle, offers compelling, heart wrenching insight into how a drug company can rip hope away from so many who suffer from Parkinson's Disease. Working as a physical therapist, I have seen the damage and agony that this disease brings to patients and their families, and it is disgusting to think that a profit could be more important than a cure. Nelson gives readers a first-hand account of the struggle in the daily lives of Parkinson's victims, and how just when many of these victims found promise in a miracle drug, it was put back on the shelves until something more lucrative for the company could be discovered. This book makes you wonder what other discoveries could be on the horizon that drug companies are withholding. I highly recommend this book.

Reviewed by Vicki Landes for Reader Views (1/08)

What's on your plate these days? Caught up in the New Year's weight-loss-resolution craze? Substituting baked chicken for fried or opting for a healthy salad instead? Author Sandy Powers says it's just not enough! Amid that lower-cholesterol poultry and pile of innocent-looking veggies lurks a terror so offensive, you won't believe it's FDA-approved. Hormones, antibiotics, synthetic pesticides, irradiated components, genetically modified organisms, reprocessed sewage - and you kiss your mother with that mouth?

"Organic for Health" is a jarring look at what we eat everyday, even those fresh foods considered `healthy.' For those already knowledgeable in all things organic, it's a gentle reminder to stay on track. But for people like me, it's a horrifying glimpse into what my body's had to process over the years. Chronic health problems, low immunity, and even that invading cancer battling our systems make much more sense when Powers describes what all we eat in addition to our intended meals. Put down that fork and slowly step away...

Unlike health how-to books that rival the size of medical textbooks, "Organic for Health" is easily ingested in one sitting for quick application. Not only does Powers give you a well-organized down and dirty (literally) of non-organic foods, she starts you off on the right path with a mouth-watering variety of recipes as well as advice on transitioning your grocery shopping habits without breaking the bank. Further, she provides a thorough glossary for quick reference and additional sources for supplementary research.

Sandy Powers notes she is living proof that the switch to organic foods is life-altering. Faced with breast cancer and a required surgery, her situation was further compounded with risky liver problems. Now, she lives cancer-free and her liver is better than ever thanks to an organic lifestyle. With the number of health problems, costs of medical care and prescriptions growing at a staggering rate, most people can no longer avoid taking a serious look at what they eat and would benefit from Powers' example. Even healthy parents will find this book eye-opening. As a mother, I found that the most shocking information in "Organic for Health" is that children have a higher sensitivity to these food additives - measured and packaged with an adult's body in mind.

Genetically-altered additives, pesticides, antibiotics, and reprocessed sewage - and that's just breakfast! "Organic for Health" will convince even the most indifferent eater that organic foods are the way to optimal wellbeing.

Very informative book. Easy to use. You will reconsider the old saying "You are what you eat". This book belongs on every cookbook shelf in America. To better Health! Enjoy!
Michael Fantin

Being a mother of 3, I found this book full of easy tips to ensure my family eats safe, nutritious food. It changed my view of food and how I shop for my family. The recipes were also helpful and delicious. My picky kids ate every last bite! I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to start or improve their organic lifestyle.

This book was full of more than just easy delicious recipes; there are plenty of tidbits about the advantages of organic foods. I was shocked by some of the facts given on convetional foods. I'm now more motivated than ever to eat organic and these recipes make it simple and fun.

Americans are being poisoned every day with food that has been approved by the United States Department of Agriculture. The USDA allows terrifying quantities of poisons and contaminants to remain inside the meat and produce that currently fills supermarket shelves. It is a legal practice, and Americans continue to believe the food supply is safe.

Sandy Powers' amazing recount of her battle with breast cancer is one that every American should take to heart. After the initial diagnosis, Powers was unable to have surgery to remove the tumor because the levels of enzymes in her liver were dangerously high, and surgery could cause total liver failure and death. Various tests could not explain the reason behind her illness. She went ahead with the risky surgery, but continued treatment could not be pursued due to the high levels of enzymes. Eventually, Powers decided to try an experiment on herself to heal her liver. She simply undertook an organic diet. It is probably no surprise that the change in diet restored her liver enzymes to healthy levels and positively affected her cholesterol, enabling her body to more effectively battle the cancer.

Powers' experience is the inspiration behind Organic for Health. As if her own story isn't convincing enough, she spends several chapters explaining how the food supply is processed and the dangerous (and disgusting) amounts of contaminants suppliers are allowed to ignore. She begins with "Hormones, Antibiotics, and E. coli," briefly covers the seafood industry, then provides some startling statistics on fertilizer and pesticides, including the "Dirty Dozen" most dangerous fruits and vegetables. The next few chapters follow a more positive note, listing specific foods that are rich in antioxidants, immune boosters, and phytonutrients (when purchased organically).

Possibly the most helpful chapter is one entitled "Useful Information," in which Powers provides the reader with tips for storing produce to ensure it gets used, given that organically grown food is often costly. The bulk of the book is made up of delicious recipes. The key to these recipes is that Powers has been able to find most of the ingredients in their organic forms, and most likely, the reader will be able to do the same. For those that may be intimidated by the whole process, the recipes are very simple, usually with only a few ingredients. This is truly back to basics cooking, proving we've strayed away from the wisdom of our ancestors with our current lifestyles.

The book closes with tips for growing fruits and vegetables, meditation, and a glossary of terms. There is a list of additional resources, but none of the organizations have websites listed--just addresses and phone numbers. Websites would have been helpful, because most people prefer email over snail mail these days. Regardless, Organic for Health provides an important introduction to the benefits of organic food.

Sandy Powers has created the type of book that will change lives. She approaches the subject matter from a basic, introductory standpoint. This allows any reader to ease into the idea of major dietary changes, progressing at a comfortable pace. If there was any doubt the US government allows profit to prevail over general well-being, Organic for Health will eliminate that doubt.