This is the big project keeping my husband, Joe, and me busy. Sunbreaks in Unending Storms, by Carole and FJ Griffitts, surveys the world of invisible disabilities, how to live there, and how to help.
Our tentative publication date is April 5 when it will appear on Amazon and other Internet retailers.
Author Info
An active woman, wife, and mother of two young boys, Carole worked part time as Joe attended graduate school. Two years later, undiagnosed pain and weakness dominated her life; she was still a wife and mother, Joe had graduated, she had everything to live for, but she would never again be able to lead an active life. Joe and Carole are uniquely qualified to cowrite this book having lived over 40 years with her unstable, progressive, invisible disabilities. Carole writes from her standpoint as the person affected by severe limitations while Joe writes from his perspective as the spouse and caregiver. Joe’s professional background as pastor and Army Reserve Chaplain coupled with his experiences coping with his wife’s ordeals provides an unusual perspective as he coauthors this book. Carole’s speaking experience includes panel discussions and forums with healthcare profession students and the public.
Endorsements for Sunbreaks in Unending Storms
“Carole and Joe speak from their own personal story, compelling readers to walk with them through the unexpected storms brought on by invisible disabilities. Their story is both encouraging and heartbreaking. This couple’s honest and vivid storytelling will challenge you to be more empathetic and compassionate toward friends and strangers.”
Dr. Nancy L. Potter, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, professor and specialist in neurologic disorders in the Washington State University Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine and fellow survivor of an invisible disability.
“Sunbreaks in Unending Storms is a book written from the heart and from the heart of experience. Join Joe and Carole on their compelling journey of ups and downs, battles and triumphs, tears, and joy. Find hope, help, and healing through their experiences, wisdom, suggestions, and a faith in God that has withstood the test of time and the force of the gales of invisible disability.”
Francee Strain, Author, No Ordinary Invitation, member of invisibly disabled community
“Joe and Carole have welcomed us into their home and lives, as they honestly share the realities of life with chronic illness. Their story is real, their experiences as carer and patient need no embellishments. Chronic illness affects every area of their lives, yet their story is full of hope and practical tips to live the best life possible. This book is a must read for anyone living with chronic illness, caring for someone who does, or for concerned “observers” who know others in this situation.”
Sam Moss, Internationally known chronic illness advocate. Blogger and podcaster, My Medical Musings. Writer for “The Mighty.” Founder of Medical Musings with Friends, a Facebook group.
The What of Sunbreaks in Unending Storms
Joe and I use our forty year journey, detailed stories of three other families, and short input from still others to showcase life with invisible disabilities. These families represent a variety of challenges. We present this book from the family’s viewpoint since these conditions affect the whole family.
Joe and I recount our story in depth, along with lessons learned and unlearned. The remaining chapters deal with problems, tips, and suggested solutions for practical issues, emotions, relationships, and spiritual questions, with input from others.
As the title suggests, we represent our lives in weather terms.
And, yes, this sounds like Navigating the Storms. But, no, it is not copied from here.
Why I’m Writing
Currently, we are looking for people willing to read our book. If you like it, we’d appreciate a review on Amazon or one of the other online retailers. We are also looking for bloggers to write a review. If you are interested, please use the contact form below to let me know. I can make available an e-book or PDF version.
Our mission is twofold. 1. Offering encouragement and tips for dwellers like us. 2. Letting observers glimpse what life is like for the invisibly disabled, showing them ways to help. But it can’t help people if they do not read it.
More info about Carole and FJ (Joe) Griffitts
Check out the About Us page for more details.
Congrats!! Looking forward to supporting and cheering you on as the book becomes available. Great job getting it done!
I’ll let everyone know here when it’s available. Thanks for the encouragement!
This is incredible – congratulations guys! It’s difficult keeping up with the basics when living with chronic illness, let alone blogging and writing a BOOK. Wow, I’m in awe. A huge congratulations and I think it’s a brilliant way to share your experiences while letting others know they’re not as alone as they may feel with their own. ♥
Thanks! I can’t believe we did it. 5 years’ work–a little at a time. We want others to be able to learn from our 40 years’ experience.
Wow! What a wonderful venture you two are taking! The book sounds great and I love the cover. I’m hesitant to jump on just because I’m not yet to dependable. But, if you want a review (blog and Amazon) and have a flexible schedule, let me know.
Thanks for your encouragement.