Joyce Marie Sheldon ... author, inspirational speaker
From Fear To Faith A Caregiver's Journey
reflections on finding hope in the midst of despair
ENDORSEMENTS:
ROGER WOODRUFF, HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE DIRECTOR,
HOSPICE INTERNATIONAL
"This book is a tasteful collection of poems, prayers and meditations that I think would be useful to any caregiver dealing with end-of-life issues. It is very much in the spirit of palliative care—where you may be unable to add days to the life, you add life (and meaning) to the days. Reading how one couple achieved this would be both comforting and inspirational to others in a similar situation."
CHRISTIANE NORTHRUP, M. D., author of Mother-Daughter Wisdom
“I read – and wept – and was helped. Bless you.”
TOM GOLDEN, LCSW, author, speaker, psychotherapist
"This is a moving book of inspiration for all caregivers which validates their universal feelings. Through heart-wrenching poetry and uplifting prayers, this book takes the reader on one woman's journey from fear to faith and the glorious recovery of her own body and spirit. An important read for all those caring for the sick, the elderly and the dying."
DANIEL SEUFERT, M.ed, Behavior Specialist
“A book that will lift and inspire you and move you into the light of a new day.”
LORREN TIMBERMAN, former Professor, Carolinas College of Health Sciences
“A must read for all nursing students and nursing staff.”
The author's note ...
Reflections on finding hope in the midst of despair
Writing has been a part of my life since childhood – from poems and essays in school, to romantic and spiritual prose in adulthood. When my husband was diagnosed with terminal liver disease in 1999, it was natural for me to express my thought and fears on paper. Writing was a release. Often I found myself at the computer in the early morning hours, pounding the keys in a desperate attempt to vent my frustrations, to let go of my grief, to soothe my spirit.
My husband spent two years traveling towards his death. We were determined it would be a journey of faith - not faith that he would recover miraculously, but faith that we could (and would!) accept the inevitable, trusting that God would provide strength and courage.
Walk with me through the 5 chapters of this emotional and spiritual journey ~ from Disbelief and Despair to the amazing gift of Acceptance; to a sad Farewell and the experience of Triumph.
Excerpt ~ From Fear to Faith
... You are my caregiver friend We are joined in spirit and in deed Please know my heart has been uplifted and I pray for you every day You are my special friend My kindred heart upon the road unknown I am all the better for the knowing of your spirit ...
From Fear to Faith
A Caregiver's Journey
Chapter Three
Acceptance
Chapter Five Triumph
Joyce Marie Sheldon joy@myjoytoday.com 704-663-4815
