HEALING THROUGH ILLNESS, LIVING THROUGH DYING

Healing Through Illness, Living Through Dying:

Healing Through Illness, Living Through Dyingaddresses a wide range of practical and emotional issues faced by patients and caregivers. The rituals not only guide readers through difficult and often unfamiliar territory, but also support them in growing and healing on many levels - whether the path leads into remission or through the end of life.

Many rituals are simple and can easily be slipped into everyday routines, such as finding moments to consciously relax and release tension. Other rituals are used in particular circumstances, such as releasing anger or creating meaningful connections with loved ones.

This book shines a light on options that otherwise might not be considered, and helps patients and caregivers gain a greater sense of control at a time when so much feels out of control. With warmth and wisdom, Courtney supports readers in bringing greater meaning into their journey, and empowers them to move through the challenges with greater strength and grace.

According to Ira Byock, MD, a nationally recognized authority in palliative and end-of-life-care, and author of Dying Well, and The Best Care Possible, "Too often rituals are thought of as vestiges of the past, but Candice Courtney understands the enduring power of ritual to create meaning in the present. Courtney's sound counsel for using rituals to live fully during illness and end of life is a valuable contribution to our contemporary culture."

About the Author: After her husband’s death from a brain tumor in 1998, Courtney drew upon her background in ritual to support others fighting an illness or grieving a loss. Her study of ritual in diverse cultures has informed her understanding of ritual and the essential—if sometimes unnoticed—role it plays throughout our lives. Ms. Courtney gives workshops and presentations for patients and professionals, as well as speaking at national and international conferences, including the National Hospice and Palliative Care Association, and the Association for Death Education and Counseling.