Includes bibliographical references (pages 305-307) and index.

"This impressively honest book explores the effects a challenging disability or illness can have on the mind and personal relationships, and how friends, family and professionals can help. Illness or disability can isolate people by creating vast differences in their experiences where previously there were none. Friends and family can find themselves saying the wrong thing or awkwardly avoiding topics as a result. This book takes a candid look at how discomfort caused by an illness can strain a relationship between partners, families and professionals, as well as how understanding feelings of guilt or shame can transform a situation or relationship. The insights and advice offered in this book can help children and adolescents overcome anxiousness caused by a parent's condition, improve communication between partners and family members, and increase professionals' awareness of how a client feels about their situation." -- Publisher's description