Puppy Dog and Fairy Lights

by Sarah Naylor

This self-help book contains useful information for people experiencing a traumatic time in their lives, particularly for family and friends of stroke survivors. It documents the first year following my husband's stroke. The basis of the book is diary excerpts that tell the story from the beginning. Interspersed are explanations about different medical and technical aspects encountered along the journey, for example information about power of attorney and how to help someone settle into residential care. The book is enhanced by the inclusion of a variety of self-help information. Firstly, explaining the grieving process which is something that can be experienced following loss, not just from bereavement. I have talked about prioritisation and making life simpler in order to give yourself space. Then discuss finding happiness, holding on to the good things in life, finding positivity and hope, which can be very challenging when things are tough. I talk about some of the strong emotions like guilty feelings. The book concludes with a section on meditation which helped me survive the year.