Young People and Chronic Illness
Grade 5 Up-In the first section of this book, Huegel introduces 10 young people, each of whom has a chronic illness. They explain how they were diagnosed; medical management; and how they deal with family, friends, and school. They share how they have fashioned a satisfying life for themselves despite the limitations their conditions might impose. The diseases discussed are hemophilia, diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, congenital heart defect, and lupus. Each chapter is accompanied by a small black-and-white photograph of its subject, followed by questions and answers about the disease and a list of resources including organizations, books, and Web sites. Part two discusses strategies for managing an illness; maintaining a relationship with a doctor; dealing with friends, family, and school; battling fear of hospitals; finding a support group; and planning for the future. The text, written in a conversational, sympathetic tone, is sprinkled with upbeat quotes. Advice is terse, well organized, and to the point, making it easy to remember, if difficult to carry out. There are many books that relate stories about the disease of the month, but Huegel's focus is on how these kids manage their own lives and how their experiences can help others cope with chronic illness. A good choice for any collection.Martha Gordon, formerly at South Salem Library, NYCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.