Is there a pathway through the nightmare of serious illness?

Is there any way to find clarity, to discover some sense of perspective and peace of mind, to stop the free-fall into overwhelm?

Yes. Dealing with serious illness, whether it’s your own or that of someone close to you, is never easy. Yet you can find a pathway through the information overload and your panicky need to know what’s happening. You can release yourself from the immobility of uncertainty and fear. And you can find moments of peace and clarity, acceptance of what’s happening, and a way to respond, one step at a time.

You never really thought you or anyone close to you would be diagnosed with a serious illness. Now that it’s happened, you’re desperately trying to make sense of what you’re being told as well as what you’re feeling. You want to understand as much as you can, but each new piece of information seems to contradict the last. Timing feels crucial, yet you keep thinking that the next person you talk to or the next website you read will have the solution. How can you make decisions when you’re free-falling in confusion?

In the midst of the wilderness, you can find the moments of peace you long for, a simple, loving acceptance of what’s occurring. And from that place of clarity, your choices arise individually in their own space and time. Taking each step as it comes allows you to make decisions based on the facts and on your deepest sense of what’s true for you.

Hi. I’m Char Brooks, patient advocate and attorney. I know from personal experience, as a patient, as a family member, and as a caretaker, exactly what it’s like to be in this situation. I helped five close family members with their critical, long-term illnesses over the last 30 years, and then dealt with a serious health scare of my own. I’ve developed a wealth of connections, resources, tools, and just plain know-how on getting the best possible results from the medical system – and staying sane in the process. My clients rely on me to help them understand everything from insurance claims to Living Wills, from the sometimes-frightening intensity of their feelings to the best ways of communicating with doctors and other providers.

If you’re looking for practical, caring help, including straightforward tools you can start using now to get a grasp on what’s happening, you’ve come to the right place.

How do you start?

First, sign up to download my free Appointment Preparation worksheet that will immediately help improve your communication with doctors and other service providers. You’ll also receive my regular newsletter, which provides practical, useful tips and ideas on coping with the medical system, insurance, and lots more.

Then take a look here to see what other tools, workbooks, and guidance is available.

Can I really help you? Click here to find out.