When Life Becomes Precious: The Essential Guide for Patients, Loved Ones, and Friends of Those Facing Serious Illnesses

My spouse had heart disease. At the same time, I was looking for a book for a friend with cancer. I found Precious and read it before giving it as a gift. I realized the suggestions applied to my family. I started using the author's ideas immediately and it helped us tremendously. I find myself quoting her often in my volunteer work at church (with patients) and with friends. One friend called and said she was having serious problem coping with her husband's diabetes. She read the book and called to tell me that after following the advice in Precious, she saw a dramatic change in the way her family communicated and supported each other. Another friend said she was in an argument with her daughter about the father's illness. The mother used the suggestions in the book to calm her daughter down. Later that evening, the daughter (in her 30s) came up to her mom and said, "Thank you. What you said and how you said it was wonderful!" This book should not even have cancer on the cover. It's practical, moving, upbeat and extremely helpful for patients and families coping with any medical challenge. J. Long, past president of a personnel agency

Elise Needell Babcock's words are better than any I've read on dealing with cancer and family. Her advise is simple and extremely helpful.

This is absolutely the most incredible survivor and partner-support book I have ever read. Having had to deal with several close friends and relatives over the past couple of years who have been dealing with cancer problems, I just was at a loss as to the best way to handle everything. What to say, what to do, how were they REALLY feeling? Stuff like that. This book explains it all in a way that not only makes sense, but give you a sense of hope that you can actually help people deal with these health crises and major life transitions in meaningful, caring, and loving way. I have actually used the book way beyond just cancer support also. It was helpful with my own Mother, who passed away in November, in dealing with her heart and lung problems. It's just a great communications tool. Think of it almost like a Spanish-English dictionary: only this is a patient-supporter dictionary. The patient has things that they're thinking and feeling that THEY understand, but you don't. This book will translate all that for you. I have probably given 2 dozen of these books to my own friends who are dealing with these issues themselves either as patients or as patient-supporters. This book is a true gift to the world.

I cannot tell you how greatful I am to have this incredibly poignant, insightful book in my life. Recently, I learned that two of my most treasured friends were dealing with cancer; one was diagnosed in stage four, the other has a sister who, too, was diagnosed in stage four of the disease. Until I found the book, I was at a loss as to how to approach my friends. I wanted to help; I needed to help, but eveything I said sounded hollow. Words like, "I'm here for you," though deeply sincere, were too passive to really be of any help. With so many decisions if front of them, with life changing so rapidly around them, the last thing either one of them could do was be still long enough to be rational and decisive.Then I found the book. What a Godsend! Right there in Chapter Three, as if it had been soley written for me, were specific yet simple examples of how to effectively and lovingly communicate with both of my friends and address their needs. There are chapters such as how to deal with fears - our and theirs, how to open up communcation, what type of gifts would be apprecitated and what type of services to offer, and how to select care providers - each containing clear examples rich in detail.If you have a friend or family that is confronting any kind of life-threatenting illness, buy the book. Read, it, dog-ear the pages and don't hesitate to pass it along. I highly recommend this step-by-step guide on loving a friend in need.

Many of you know me as the host of the national healthcare radio talk show, "MEDI-POLITICS". In that role I get to review lots of books about medical subjects. One that truly stands out is "WHEN LIFE BECOMES PRECIOUS". This is a no-nonsense, step-by-step guide in how to relate to those with chronic disease -- probably the best one of its kind I've ever seen. It's like a crash course in sensitivity training for friends and family members as well as a source of inspiration to those WITH a chronic disease. I have proudly placed this one on my bookshelf as a "keeper". I've had a number of opportunities to use its valuable advice and it's been a source of immense help, comfort and basic information. If you buy just one book this year, THIS is the one to buy. I cannot wait for Elise Needell Babcock's next book.