Still Alice by Lisa Genova

Alice Howland, a professor at Harvard University finds herself forgetting things. While she laughs at her husband and his misplaced keys, she becomes lost while on a familiar run, loses words in mid-sentence, and forgets important appointments. While family and friends notice small changes, they are able to chalk them up to stress and menopause. The true diagnosis is Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease (EOAD).Genova has splendidly mixed the story of Alice, husband John, and their children with critical background information on Alzheimer's disease, available drugs, diagnosis, prognosis, and the way in which the future may unfold for the EOAD victim. Her words ring true and resonate with the terrible truth of this disease. My sister died of EOAD, although the death certificate lists "Cause of Death" as "Failure to thrive". There were so many similarities in Alice's decline that we witnessed in Carole, and it reiterated what I always knew, that deep inside Carole knew me as a frien
d and that I loved her even when she could no longer express it in words or actions.Still Alice is a quick read, but it is not easy one because the content is heavy as it forces readers to reflect upon the dismal descent of the main character. For readers who suspect they may have the disease or for those who are caring for or who have lost someone to the disease the book offers insight mixed with fear and consolation. Every word, each scene, is so close to the heart, so painful to relive. While I had initially suggested this book for a book club I belong to, I know it would be a difficult discussion as I am the only member who has had to face this insidious disease and talking about it would be excruciating. It is an excellent read for a family facing the disease, for an Alzheimer's Support Group or victims group, and medical practitioners. It is a wonderful book for increasing understanding of the disease and reinforcing the idea that the person entrapped within the Alzhei
mer's snare is still a vital, caring individual who needs love and comfort and still has much to offer each of us.There is much to learn about Alzheimer's disease and Still Alice completes many gaps in understanding. You will find it well worth your time.

View this post on my blog: http://www.yourgamebook.com/still-alice-by-lisa-genova.html