Yesterday I had the pleasure of being invited to a book presentation. The book will be out in few weeks and it was written by Eileen Benthal. People who follow my page have seen from time to time a post on Johanna Benthal who is Eileens daughter. Johanna was born with a very rare disease and she is a very fragile patient who has undergone too many to count brain surgeries. I have known Johanna since her infancy and traveled this really rocky road with this family, a road full of worries, pains, lost family moments and many many tears. Eileen is a remarkable mom and a remarkable woman. As many special needs moms do, she has become a true warrior for her daughter and the cause of rare diseases and for supporting caregivers. Eileen has been able to turn her life journey as Johannas caretaker, into an inspiration for everyone who knows her. She truly radiates wisdom, love and grace. Eileen has learned how to Breath Under Water and she is willing to share with all of us how to find strength during life most difficult times. Knowing Johanna and Eileen has been one of the greatest blessing of my life. As a doctor I felt frustrated, I felt useless in my inability to help this child feel better, as a human being I felt enriched and inspired by their example of strength and love. I believe this book will offer much support for any one who happens to be a caregiver, and frankly to everyone of us. In a way we are all caregiver, are we not? By the way the book cover is from her her son David Benthal, who is an incredible photographer, and I think it is a true work of art. Congratulations Eileen, I cant wait to read this book, and thank you for the example you are for all of us.
Posted on: Sun, 16 Nov 2014 14:04:11 +0000