Conquering Illness News Summaries by title
Find hope through help
Wreck victim makes her own history with run
Football tackles schizophrenia and depression
Teen with HIV dreams of becoming doctor
Diabetic tells tale of Mount Everest climb
Mr Inspirational
Remarkable recovery
Staring down adversity
Transplant Survivor’s Harrowing Story Ends With A Message Of Hope
Hope amid Malawi’s Aids crisis
Swimmer with cystic fibrosis actively raises funds for a cure
Art Show that Expresses Success with Adult Mental Illness
An inspirational will to write
Brain injury survivors are resourceful people who deserve respect, not pity
Olympics cap Silverstein’s journey
Woman rediscovers painting, uses it as a healing force
6 to Grow on: Writer with ADD inspires students to focus
Support group helps heal the heartache of a headache
Olympian Inspires Those Battling Epilepsy
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Find hope through help
15th March 2007
By Herb Perry
The Portsmouth News Herald described how a program organized by (NAMI), The National Alliance on Mental Illness is giving new hope to people afflicted by mental illness. The Peer-to-Peer program uses mentors who are living with mental illness to provide support and advice to other individuals suffering with mental illness. The story outlines some of the positive outcomes from the program. Many participants have had problems with personal relationships but have found the support makes a difference. A mentor, Beth Gould, told the News Herald reporter “I see transformations and growth I find incredible”. One of the objectives of the course is to minimize relapses. Many of the participants feel a genuine sense of relief to know that there are other people who really understand what they are going through. “The burden is off their shoulders” commented Rob Bowling, one of the teachers in the program. According to Beth Gould teaching the participants requires considerable skill and empathy. “It takes people to be vulnerable to be able to learn the course and then teach the other people”.
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Wreck victim makes her own history with run
5th March 2007
By Lauchlin Fields
The Vicksburg Post profiled 26-year-old Megan Cook who has astounded many people in her community with her brave recovery from a severe car accident 2 years ago. During the accident, Megan sustained severe head injuries. Megan Cook has restricted movement on her right side. Initially, she could neither walk nor talk. Her cognitive skills were also impaired. Megan’s courage and determination were however never in any doubt. Megan Cook’s recovery has surprised and uplifted her family, friends and community. The Post reported Megan’s participation in a recent 5K walk event. Carol Bonelli, retired therapist and family friend spoke in glowing terms of the young lady’s strength and determination. Bonelli told the reporter “I’ve never heard one negative word come out of her mouth. It’s always a smile, and she’s always positive”. Megan Cook is looking forward to the future with a sense of anticipation. “I want to get better and do more of the things I used to do. Megan added, “If I can’t do them, that’s fine. But, I still want to try”.
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Football tackles schizophrenia and depression
8th January 2007
By Tom Kington
An intriguing and entertaining story described how Italian psychiatrist Mauro Raffaeli, is using an innovative approach to treating patients and is achieving remarkable results. The doctor has formed a football team consisting of a group of patients and is using sport as a way of consolidating the treatment process. Dr Raffaeli’s novel approach has attracted a great deal of international interest and admiration. Over a period of several years, patients who have participated in the football team have shown improved treatment outcomes that include reduced need for medications and improved function in the workplace. The team has been the subject of a documentary film called Mad About Football which studies the lives of the players. Film-maker Volfango di Biasi told The Guardian how the production had aimed to de-stimatise mental illness. “Mental health sufferers are often locked inside themselves, and football allows them to open up”.
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Teen with HIV dreams of becoming doctor
20th December 2006
By Oluatoyin Alleyne
This article told the remarkable story of 19-year-old Memory Phiri who has rebuilt her life after contracting HIV as a result of a rape 6 years ago. Memory Phiri lives in Zambia. In recent years Memory has traveled extensively spreading an inspirational message of hope and survival. Memory is a beneficiary of a project called City of Hope in a village in Zambia which is run by The Salesian Sisters organization. Memory lost both of her parents at an early age. The family had many problems including homelessness. As a result of her problems, Memory was unable to attend school for many years. Memory Phiri was raped when she was 13-years-old and her attacker was never brought to justice. She would later test HIV positive. She reacted to the diagnosis with a feeling of horror. “At that time I just wanted to kill myself”, Memory told the reporter. After the initial shock of the HIV diagnosis, Memory Phiri commenced an inspirational journey of healing. She attended school and became an excellent student. Memory was also able to secure funding for a home for her family members. She has also become a powerful advocate for the needs of people suffering with HIV and AIDS. Memory Phiri’s dream is to eventually become a doctor and be able to help disadvantaged people. The article in The Stabroek News points out that in Zambia alone there are over 800 000 AIDS orphans.
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Diabetic tells tale of Mount Everest climb
15th October 2006
By Jennifer L. Nelson
The Daily Record described how Will Cross, a diabetic from Pittsburg has conquered the World’s highest peak. Will Cross was diagnosed with diabetes 30 years ago but has lived a remarkable active and challenging life. Will Cross is the first diabetic to travel to both the North and South poles and reach the summit of Mount Everest. He reached the top of the Nepalese peak in May 2006. The Daily Record reported how Will Cross recently gave an uplifting address to a group of diabetics. Cross told the audience “Diabetes requires that you have a caring and loving team to support and nurture you. Diabetes requires that you eat good food. Diabetes requires that you exercise on a regular basis and look after your metabolism. And in doing so, you will lead a full and rewarding life”. Other people with diabetes also spoke at the meeting held at Morristown Memorial Hospital. The Daily Record article points out that there are currently over 20 million diabetes sufferers in the USA alone.
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Mr Inspirational
11th October 2006
By Tania Martin
The Ranges Trader Mail profiled Wayne Silcock who has rebuilt his life after suffering a serious stroke 2 years ago. When Silcock suffered the stroke, he was initially given little chance of survival. During his long recovery, Silcock required an intensive rehabilitation program. The stroke caused significant brain damage and left him without the use of his right arm. Wayne Silcock was able to walk out of the rehabilitation centre unaided and has learned to become left handed. Silcock’s determination to rebuild his life has led to his efforts to learn how to make furniture items with his remaining arm. Wayne Silcock told the reporter “I have an open fire place down the back yard and if I don’t like what I’ve made I can just throw it in the fire”. He proudly stated “But I haven’t had to throw anything in yet”. Silcock emphasized the importance of using your personal potential and not dwelling on loss of function. The story described how Wayne Silcock one day hopes to set up a small shop to sell his finished products.
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Remarkable recovery
29th August 2006
By Larry Wilson
The Star-Gazette reported on the courage and determination shown by 21-year-old David Streeten to rebuild his life after a cliff-diving accident. Two years ago Streeten was close to death as a result of injuries from a cliff-diving accident. Before his accident, Streeten had been an active sports participant and is now seeking to resume sporting activities. He has reduced dexterity in his left hand resulting from injury to the right side of the brain but the Birmingham University student runs, lifts weights, dives and drives in a modified vehicle. Streeten hopes to return to the sporting field soon. One of the consequences of his accident has been a reassessment of his career plans. During his recovery, Streeten has become interested in literature and now is seeking to sharpen his skills as a creative writer.
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Staring down adversity
13th July 2006
By Justin Graves
The News Courier reported on David Kyle from East Limestone who is training as a tri-athlete. Kyle’s efforts are all the more remarkable considering he was diagnosed with MS in 2002. The story describes the profound impact of the diagnosis on David Kyle’s life. “It was a real difficult time not only for me, but also my family. I was in a deep state of depression”. At one stage Kyle was confined to a wheelchair. David Kyle made a strong commitment to remain positive and return to an active life. When his condition started to improve, David Kyle started riding bikes to maximize his function. He was pleasantly surprised by his improvement. Realizing the importance of his training, he added other types of training including swimming and running. Eventually Kyle began entering some triathlon events. Performances continued to improve. Recently, David Kyle has gained selection as a member of the U. S. National Physically Challenged Triathlon Team. Kyle told The News Courier about his experience training and competing with MS. “Fatigue is a huge downfall of MS. I have to be careful about when and where I train, and always plan ahead to make sure I don’t harm myself”. David Kyle hopes that his story might inspire others. “While training, it gave me a lot of time to think, and it has made me stronger mentally, physically and spiritually. I want to lead by example, and show people that life’s problems can be overcome”.
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Transplant Survivor’s Harrowing Story Ends With A Message Of Hope
8th June 2006
By Nancy K. Crevier
The Newtown Bee introduced the inspirational Elizabeth Alberico, who has overcome an illness called primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and rebuilt her life. Elizabeth Alberico was first diagnosed with the debilitating liver illness in 1995. She required a liver transplant but her return to good health and her positive attitude has proved an inspiration to others. Elizabeth’s Alberico’s new liver came from a 40-year-old Boston man who was killed in a motorbike accident. A decade later, Elizabeth enjoys an active lifestyle including her regular games of golf. The Newtown Bee story provided a detailed account of Alberico’s illness and recovery. Elizabeth acknowledged the importance of support from family and friends in her recovery. A positive attitude has also been critical. Elizabeth Alberico told the reporter “Attitude is 51 percent of how well a person deals with things like this. You have to take a problem and deal with it. Take life as it comes”. Elizabeth has always been highly appreciative of the liver donation and wrote to the family of the donor to express her sincere appreciation. Elizabeth still suffers many effects from her long illness and the treatment she has required including brittle bones and visual loss in one eye. Alberico reflected on her experiences with the reporter. “You take life one day at a time and live it to the fullest. Love everyone. You’re only walking through life”.
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Hope amid Malawi’s Aids crisis
22nd May 2006
There are many stories of despair from AIDS-ravaged Africa. BBC News reported on how some of those worst affected are finding hope and starting to rebuild communities. The reporter spoke to Sister Josephine of the Nsanama convent who had been working in Malawi for several years and has witnessed a resilient spirit in the people there. “What I find positive now is the awareness of needs among the leaders, the sense of family in the community”. There are many AIDS orphans who have been successfully integrated into other families. Lazarao Chitimble, a local shopkeeper, has adopted four AIDS orphans. He told BBC News “We see no difference between the children we take in and the ones that were born to us”. Sheikh Shokoma, a local Muslim preacher had also noted positive changes. “People here don’t have anything extra – but everyone gives a little because they have the compassion to help”. AIDS education programs are progressing well and have wide support in the community. There is considerable cooperation between people of different faiths to help those affected by HIV/AIDS.
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Swimmer with cystic fibrosis actively raises funds for a cure
18th May 2006
By Brian Saxton
The News-Times profiled a courageous young cystic fibrosis sufferer. 22-year-old Ross Craig of Brookfield was diagnosed with the illness at birth but has enjoyed an active and highly rewarding life. Since an early age Craig has been proactive in raising funds and awareness about the condition. One recent project, a swim-a-thon raised over $22,000 and was an extraordinary success. The article describes how Ross Craig was planning his involvement in a fund raising walk in Hartford. The reporter spoke to Kathy Garrett of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation who commented on the dramatic improvements in the treatment of this illness in recent decades. “Fifty years ago kids weren’t living to see kindergarten. The median age for survival today is 36.8.” One of the keys to Ross Craig’s life has his been participation in sports like swimming which optimizes his lung function and breathing. Ross Craig spoke of his plans for the future which includes returning to college to earn a degree in physical therapy. “I want to stay healthy and have fun. That’s my philosophy”.
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Art Show that Expresses Success with Adult Mental Illness
30th April 2006
By Pamela Smith
KATV reported on a recent art show which highlights the talent of individuals living with mental illness. The exhibition held in Little Rock showcased the poetry and art works of several mentally-ill people. The event was organized by Birch Tree Communities a group which supports adults with serious mental illnesses. The article quoted Luke Kramer, a specialist in expressive arts who commented “We want to give them the opportunity to find something that’s beautiful inside and present it and share it with other people”. One of the exhibitors, Dottie Jones told the reporter about her positive feelings for the event. “I’m seeing a whole side of me that I’m really excited about”.
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An inspirational will to write
7th April 2006
By Zhou Jinglu
This article describes the efforts of an award-winning novelist who continues to produce high quality works despite failing eyesight. Yin Huifen has defied disability has written many novels in recent years despite being almost blind. Yin Huifen was diagnosed with an abnormality of her retina in 1999. The story tells of Huifen’s commitment to research her stories which has contributed to her success. She told The Shanghai Times reporter how her work continues despite the disability. “Writing is my passion. I love reading and writing novels very much. Although I can’t read now, I can listen to stories. I ask my husband to download some novels from the Internet onto my mp3 so that I can ‘read’ again. I will never stop reading”.
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Brain injury survivors are resourceful people who deserve respect, not pity
2nd March 2006
By Tamara Puffer
The Citizen-Times published an informative article which discusses many issues relevant to survivors of brain injury. As indicated in the article, March is Brain Injury Awareness Month. The report describes the experiences of Tamara Puffer, a survivor of traumatic brain injury and articulates the feelings of many people recovering from these kinds of injuries. Many practicalities are discussed in this useful article. The article underpins the courage and determination of many survivors. The writer alerts readers to the availability of support groups such as the Brain Injury Association: www.biausa.org
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Olympics cap Silverstein’s journey
11th February 2006
Associated Press
This report chronicles the recovery of ice dancer and Olympian Jamie Silverstein from the eating disorder anorexia nervosa. Silverstein told the reporter about her recovery and the elation in making the team for the Turin Winter Olympics. “I’m really proud to be here and I’m proud of myself for making it. It’s really a personal victory”. There were times when competing in the Olympics seemed an impossibility. Silverstein even left the sport for a short period of time. She also had to overcome a setback of losing her partner, Justin Pekarek, for training and competition. A critical turning point was the recognition that she needed help to overcome the anorexia. “I just had to be brave enough to accept the help”. Jamie Silverstein threw herself into study at college and accepted intensive treatment for the eating disorder. As Jamie recovered, she rediscovered enjoyment from ice skating. She was apprehensive about returning to competition but has never looked back. Silverstein said, “I didn’t want to not do something that I really care about just because I was scared”. The article describes how she found a new skate partner Ryan O’Meara and successfully returned to the elite level of her sport.
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Woman rediscovers painting, uses it as healing force
10th February 2006
By Lesley Rogers Barrett
The Indianapolis Star reported how a chronic fatigue sufferer has found healing and a new sense of purpose through art. Katherine Soskin, of Carmel, was first diagnosed with chronic fatigue 18 years ago. In a few short months Soskin’s life seemed to collapse and she could not understand why. “I felt like the hypochondriac of the month”, she told the reporter. At one low point Katherine Soskin was bedridden for almost 2 years. In recent times she has discovered improvement by using a holistic approach to her illness. A good diet has also been important. During the last few years Katherine has discovered that she has a hidden talent for art. The Star described how she had been inspired by an instructor on a cruise to paint. The instructor told Soskin “If you paint every day for a year, you’ll be the teacher”. Recently, some of Katherine’s work was exhibited publicly. Experience with illness has taught her many things. “Despite the challenges I have, I walk with a lot of gratitude, and I count my blessings every day”. Soskin added “I think that everything happens for a purpose, and it’s up to us to find the lesson and blessing in it”.
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6 to Grow on: Writer with ADD inspires students to focus
7th February 2006
By Coretta Robinson
This story published by WCNC News described how an author who has lived with ADD has become a positive role model for others living with the condition. Recently, Michael Finklea gave an inspiring talk to a group of school children. Finklea strongly emphasized the importance of persevering and keeping a positive attitude. “Just don’t give up. Stick with what you’re doing. Quitting is never an option”. As a student, Michael Finklea had struggled for years with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). He never gave up trying and was determined to build a better future. The article tells how as an adult Michael Finklea has found healing in writing and expressing himself.
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Support group helps treat the heartache of a headache
30th January 2006
By Joan Morris
This informative article described how a chronic headache sufferer has found healing and support. Leslie Davis has helped countless other headache sufferers in the process. Over a period of ten years, Leslie Davis experienced severe headaches which proved resistant to treatment. On occasions, Davis suffered severe headaches on four days out of each week. She felt frustrated by the failure of the treatments and the disbelieving attitude of many people toward her condition. Driven by a combination of frustration and constant pain, Leslie Davis became the co-founder of the longest running headache support group in the United States. The group has been running since January 1996. The group was launched with the assistance of Dr Michael Stein, a neurologist who specializes in the treatment of headaches and migraines. Leslie’s group was an immediate success and has now grown to more than 300 regular participants. The article describes how the understanding of headaches has advanced over the last few decades. Dr Michael Stein told the reporter “One of the biggest advances is people realizing it is a medical, not a psychological or emotional problem. Just because you can’t measure the pain or see a scar doesn’t mean it’s not real”. The article contains a great deal of useful information for headache sufferers. The following websites also provide useful information, www.headaches.org and www.achenet.org
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Olympian Inspires Those Battling Epilepsy
26th January 2006
A recent report by NBC describes the fierce determination of an athlete to participate in the Winter Olympics despite a history of epilepsy. Chanda Gunn is the goalie for the U.S. women’s Olympic ice hockey team. The story describes how Gunn wakes up at 4.30 am each morning to train to commence several hours of grueling training. Chanda Gunn was first diagnosed with epilepsy in fourth grade. In her college years, daily seizures forced her off the ice. Gunn’s epilepsy has been stabilized with medication and she has retuned to participation in her sport at the highest level. The reporter spoke to a Paul Hogue, a 24-year-old soccer player who suffers with epilepsy. He spoke about the positive impact of athletes such as Chanda Gunn. “She shows that you never give up just because you have epilepsy”. Hogue commented “So I have epilepsy, big deal. I continue on and succeed, don’t let anything get in my way”.
