When I started this book I expected a numbered list of primary suggestions with a few paragraphs attached to each expanding on the advice. While I found suggestions (not numbered) sprinkled throughout, I also found a vast well of information from both persons with peripheral neuropathy (PNers) and medical professionals.

The book is written primarily from a layperson’s POV. Mims Cushing is a PNer, a writer, and a support group developer and leader. She includes her own experiences, but much of the advice comes from others within the PN community. The suggestions are offered in the spirit of “this worked for me, and it might for you.”

Ms. Cushing authored the first nine chapters, touching on nearly every aspect of self-care, both physical and psychological. She also put together the final chapter, a collection of the experiences of PNers in their own words. Dr. Norman Latov, who is Director of the Peripheral Neuropathy Clinical and Research Center at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University, authored 3 chapters. These focus on dealing with doctors, FAQs and the need for research. The book ends with a list of organizations which may be helpful to PNers, a bibliography and index.

PN is often thought of as a condition of diabetes, but it is not limited to diabetics. Many other diseases can cause PN and sometimes the cause cannot be determined. One just has PN without ever knowing why. This book is practical and easy to read, full of information you can get only from people who live day to day with PN. It’s encouraging and uplifting but realistic. If you are a PNer, a caretaker for a PNer, or love a PNer, you probably want this book.
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