Beyond the Mailbox
A memoir of life with chronic illness
by Pat Gavula
Living with a chronic illness is not for the faint of heart. Beyond the Mailbox explores the physical, psychological, spiritual, social, and medical aspects of life with Myalgic Encelphalomyelitis (ME), commonly known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The author draws upon her experience and training as a physician assistant and chaplain, and her thirty-five years of life with ME in this moving and informative memoir.
Pat Gavula lives in Central Vermont where she maintains her independence with as much dignity as she can muster.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
A Bit About Me
So, What Is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis?
What’s It Like?
What Is Wellness?
Suffering
Wishing for Death
Struggles and Attitudes
You Just Don’t Get It
Please! No Platitudes!
Now..
Final Thoughts
Recommended Reading