Invisible Illnesses and Disabilities

On a wet, chilly autumn night along a rural Oregon road this young woman's life was forever changed. A severe car accident nearly took her life. What followed were months of varying diagnoses and treatments for injuries to her head and body. However, as serious as her external injuries were, many 'invisible' problems remained after the visible, physical wounds healed. Mental, emotional, financial and spiritual adjustments were just the beginning of learning how to live, and live well, despite the disability, suffering, and loss of many of her dreams. Through her experience, Sharon Smith-Merritt has recorded hundreds of suggestions, helpful hints and tips on a variety topics including grieving, personal relationships, finances, sex, body image, and finding new, useful things to do. Her story is helpful and inspiring for anyone, not just those who are suffering from 'invisible illnesses.' Not only will it give guidance to those living with a new disability, it will also enable others to positively influence, support and encourage loved ones in their new struggle with the myriad of problems encountered after such a life-altering event.