Identity Theft

There are many books out there aimed at folks who have had strokes, but there are few who talk about the deep psychological issues and recovering from them that this book does. Strokes change people's lives overnight. For most who suffer this brain trauma many of the things that define us are gone. That makes reconstructing one's identity a crucial and often overlooked part of recovery.

The author brings her unique perspective as a stroke survivor and as a trained sociologist to this question. Full of interviews with stroke survivors and with her own experience, it's helpful for those recovering from stroke, those struggling with chronic disease, and those caring for them.

Debra Myerson had her identity ”stolen” from her. Not by a person, but something more insidious. Ms. Myerson, a professor at Stanford University, suffered a stroke due to a dissected carotid artery. In this book, she shares how she struggled to overcome the effects of the stroke. Ms. Myerson suffered from weakness because of her stroke. But her most debilitating and frustrating effect was her inability to communicate due to aphasia. Ms. Myerson, who published books in her field, lectured at Stanford University and could no longer f talk. The reader follows Ms.Myerson through her recovery as she searches for the silver lining in her situation. In telling her story, she shares her frustrations and triumphs. To illustrate her point, Ms. Myerson shares stroke stories of other people which were compelling. This book has an academic feel to it. The author readily refers to studies and other experts to validate a point. I think this is an excellent book, told with honesty and compassion. I feel stroke survivors and caregivers would benefit from reading this. I really feel this book should be required reading for health care workers caring for stroke survivors. It is rare they get this insight into a stroke survivor's struggles with aphasia

This inspiring book teaches the reader that we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way with persistence. If you are looking to be inspired, or simply looking for a good read, I highly recommend. The writing is good, the topic is intriguing, and the author is relate able.

I was excited to read this book because, while I have not had a stroke, I have personally experienced identity loss due to medical trauma and chronic health problems. It’s an issue that I don’t often see discussed, and I think many people could benefit from reading this book. The author shares her own story of having multiple strokes and her healing journey, as well as sharing other people’s stories. She also cites relevant studies and provides numerous notes and references.

The book was very readable, encouraging, and at times, humorous. I appreciated how the author shared stories that were inspirational as well as stories of people who are struggling to recover. She distills these experiences into practical advice for accepting your new reality and forging a new identity, focusing on “building a better future rather than recovering the past.” I have a better understanding of post-traumatic growth after reading this, and I feel hope that I will be able to create a more fulfilling life.

The author also discusses how relationships can be affected and the need for a support network.

This book will be particularly helpful for stroke survivors, but I think it will be useful for anyone trying to recover from serious illness or injury. It would also be helpful for caregivers, family, and anyone else who wants to understand the psychological challenges faced by survivors.

I was provided an ARC through NetGalley that I volunteered to review.