The Lady’s Handbook for her Mysterious Illness is a visceral, witty, harrowing account of one woman’s descent into chronic illness.But it’s so much more than a memoir. In the words of author Jamie Quatro:It’s a barbaric yawp. It’s a manifesto, it’s researched, it's funny, it’s a page-turner, it’s a thriller. I think over time it will become an established part of the literary memoir and medical literature canons, one of those books that has marathon legs and will be studied for generations to come.Author and musician Sarah Ramey is badass, wicked-smart, warm, tenacious. Should I go on? I’ve heard countless women say her memoir is hands-down, one of their top ten most important reads. I agree.
This is a fascinating topic and I can't wait to listen to this episode and read her book! Several years ago (before I knew anything about the connection between trauma and illness) I was diagnosed with HPA Axis dysfunction (or Adrenal Fatigue) by a functional medical professional. The road to get there was long and winding to say the least (including but not limited to having Prozac pushed on me because I was "probably just depressed.) I can't nelieve how manu women have had similar experiences.
I can relate! I, too, have had HPA axis dysfunction. (You’ll learn about it in the memoir, first signs arrive in my early 20s.) Probably not surprising given the way my nervous system responded to my environment. I think you and I have a lot in common.💛
I enjoyed her book as well. It has a certain whimsy that made the whole thing feel not so heavy, and I appreciated that. Another one I liked was The Invisible Kingdom by Meghan O’Rourke. I got a bit more recovery “oomph” out of that one.
I'm nearly done with this book and LOVED it. Thank you so much - helpful for me in terms of my chronically ill friends, and in terms of my psychotherapy clients. She DOES rock!!
Oh I'm so glad you picked up a copy! Sarah shares her story with such vulnerability and intelligence—a combination of qualities that I can really help professionals and patients alike better understand the chronic illness journey.
This is a fascinating topic and I can't wait to listen to this episode and read her book! Several years ago (before I knew anything about the connection between trauma and illness) I was diagnosed with HPA Axis dysfunction (or Adrenal Fatigue) by a functional medical professional. The road to get there was long and winding to say the least (including but not limited to having Prozac pushed on me because I was "probably just depressed.) I can't nelieve how manu women have had similar experiences.
I can relate! I, too, have had HPA axis dysfunction. (You’ll learn about it in the memoir, first signs arrive in my early 20s.) Probably not surprising given the way my nervous system responded to my environment. I think you and I have a lot in common.💛
I enjoyed her book as well. It has a certain whimsy that made the whole thing feel not so heavy, and I appreciated that. Another one I liked was The Invisible Kingdom by Meghan O’Rourke. I got a bit more recovery “oomph” out of that one.
Yes! Invisible Kingdom is an essential read as well and definitely had some practical "recovery" elements too.
I'm nearly done with this book and LOVED it. Thank you so much - helpful for me in terms of my chronically ill friends, and in terms of my psychotherapy clients. She DOES rock!!
Oh I'm so glad you picked up a copy! Sarah shares her story with such vulnerability and intelligence—a combination of qualities that I can really help professionals and patients alike better understand the chronic illness journey.
Yes, I love that it's written so engagingly and clearly and intelligently. I'll be recommending it!
I've put it on my reading list. Thanks for the recommend. I look forward to diving in.
You’re welcome!
So worth a restack: done!
You're a delight.
As are you!