It Takes Courage:
Coping with Chronic Illness
by Thomas R. Holtackers, PT
Published by Courage Press in 2007
Available for $15.99 at Amazon.com
(see link below)
Reviewed by TexOP
MSWorld Chat Host and Moderator
I must say as a beginning remark regarding this book, in my opinion, it is a must read for anyone dealing with a loved one, relative, or close friend afflicted by Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Liz Thompson, who is far more experienced at reviewing books on the subject of MS, seems to allude that it is a guy book. Where I come from on this is Holtacker does indeed identify the huge impact MS has on the male psyche; but ladies, perhaps more than a few of you have married or met such an animal and just might benefit from yet one more peek at this delicate thing called the male ego.
In his book, Holtacker describes his particular ride on the MS rollercoaster so familiar to us all. His book spends considerable time on his battles with the myriad of physical challenges MS brings to all our tables, and how he found ways to satisfy his unusual thirst for continuing some kind – any kind – of athletic competition.
Holtacker identifies with MS where the rubber meets the road so to speak. He begins his story, for us, as a successful high school football coach, teacher and husband. I will leave the impact MS levies on this "picture book couple" for you to discover.
Macho Holtacker works hard at denying his MS outside his immediate family circle and yet on page 28 describes his desire to shout out to anyone who would listen, "I HAVE MS AND I AM AFRAID!"
Wow. I sit here trying to remember, did I ever do that?
It's interesting to note that as his career moves from school teacher/coach to that as a physical therapist at a world renown rehabilitation center, it requires eight years and neurologist number five to positively identify MS.
Holtacker battles depression and anger and conquers the trauma of spinal fusion in mid-life. The man is a winner – a real man – and in the end resolves the important issues in life of family, self-identity and how he is NOT his MS, but a person with high goals and ambition, and what I admire most – his relentless pursuit for wellness that includes being as fit as possible when the cure comes along!
Read the book. It's inspirational.
Check out his Website for more information and for a different perspective on this book, read LizOP's book review.
