Ice Bound: A Doctor's Incredible Battle for Survival at the South Pole

"You've always been a survivor Duffy, and you survive well." This is a quote from the author's Mom and it is so true for her daughter's amazing story. This was one of the most inspiring books I have read. The author, a 46 year old ER doctor who perseveres in the face of daunting challenges, shares her incredible story of survival. I was impressed with the unflagging support the author receives from her family, fellow "Polies" at the research center in Antarctica and her doctor.In her book, Jerri Nielsen brings herself back to the present when faced with longing for her home and family while stationed in Antarctica. I was reminded of another inspiring book called "Working On Yourself Doesn't Work" by Ariel & Shya Kane. The Kane's book is a practical modern day guide for living in the moment. All these authors write of how precious life is and of how each moment counts. As there are no guarantees in life. I recommend reading both these books highly.

Ice Bound is one of the best books I have read in years. I just couldn't put it down. It is a wonderful story of love, friendship, and problem solving. I found it very educational. As I knew nothing about the South Pole and life there, it taught me so much about that mysterious part of the world. Ice Bound was so fascinating that I immediately started back at the first of the book to read it again slowly. As a nurse I found the medical parts of the book along with the profound effects on the body and mind at the South Pole just amazing. I believe the thoughtless comments about Dr. Neilsen and the flag being upside down were quite petty beyond belief. They weren't a book review. Get real! This is a great story. After reading her book it makes me wonder if those petty comments were made by her ex or his friends and family in an effort to sabatoge the success of her book, that is, to discourage readers. If so, it didn't work. This is a fabulous book that must be read by one and all.

With all due respect to a couple of the earliest reviews, let's get to the point at hand, which is that this is an amazing story told by an amazing woman. After an unhappy marriage and a bitter break-up- that left her estranged from her three children, Dr. Jerri Nielsen went to spend a year as the resident doctor at the Amundsen Scott station in Antarctica. She was the only doctor among the 41 people in the complex, so when she developed breast cancer, there was no one to treat her, and no way, because of the extreme cold that kept planes from flying, to get help. What follows is an account of people's reactions and the unprecedented efforts that were made to help her, right up to the time when a crew of pilots braved temperatures that were low enough to freeze their fuel to fly in and lift her out. The writing is personable and extremely readable; you feel more as if you are chatting with a friend than actually reading a book. Read it because it will tell you about a land at the bottom of the world; read it because it will describe a way of life you've never comprehended; but above all, read it because it is a story that will restore your faith in human nature.

I came to eagerly write about this moving book, only to find two "comments", not REVIEWS of Ice Bound, the book. They give no insight into the book whatsoever, and that's a shame. Jerri Nielsen's fascinating story of courage and redemption at the South Pole should not be missed. Whatever her previous situation, this woman found herself dying of aggressive cancer at the bottom of the world, with few options and an admirable concern for her colleagues. The events that transpire over a matter of a few dark months serve to illuminate the qualities of some resourceful, and compassionate people. Jerri Nielsen is to be admired, but she is not the only hero in this lovely book. It's a work of beauty and warmth -- even those who are phobic could find themselves wanting to be a part of the fiercely loyal and gently-accepting tiny community in that dome in Antarctica.Jerri Nielsen is a remarkable woman, a caring physician, and obviously a spirited, loving person who, through adversity and "chilling" conditions, finds the best part of her self.Don't just buy this book for yourself; pass it on, give it as a gift. You'll wish you were 1/100th as calm, courageous, self-effacing, and determined as this amazing woman and those who come to her rescue.

Dr Nielsen shares her story of struggle and triumph with warmth and a generous spirit! I am in awe of her challenges, both personal and physical. She applauds the contributions of the Polie community and the Airmen as heroes, and rightly so. And she is also a hero! I cannnot think of a more captivating book. Let the controversy over her decision to sign up for this unusual position begin. She openly lets her feelings of sadness be known over being cut off by her children. Only those who have witnessed or experienced such cruel control in abusive relationships will understand. The rest of us need to be compassionate and open to portrayals of these human struggles to survive. Dr Nielsen's writing is alive and lyrical. Her love of people is written all over every page. Anyone who loves an honest and compassionate well written personal story will love this book!