Suggested Reading
Detailed below are some of the books Carers have found helpful. If you would like to recommend a book for this page, contact Liz Ilderton on 01782 831616
"The Selfish Pig's Guide to Caring" by Hugh Marriott
This book is for those of us who have come reluctantly to caring for someone with a long-term disability and who secretly feel bad about our unwillingness.
In a highly entertaining manner the author, himself a Carer of his partner who has Huntingdon's Disease, tackles the really difficult issues of "What if you didn't care?" "Pushing them down the stairs", "Are you the one who needs looking after?" "Officialdom and Chaos Theory" and "Tips which the experts don't tell you".
The suggestions for managing your life with your piglet (Person I Give Love & Endless Therapy) to reduce frustrations and despair are done in a way that is not only hilariously funny but also unpretentious. Making a conscious decision not to want what you can't have and "going at piglet pace" are just two of many really sound guidelines.
It addresses issues that as a Carer you can hardly bear to admit to yourself. It acknowledges that you are on your own and like it or not you have to survive or your piglet suffers.
This is a book that I predict will revolutionise the awareness of Carers: already I feel empowered by refreshing and liberating straight talking.
"The Selfish Pig's Guide to Caring is published by Polperro Heritage Press. ISBN 0954423313
We are indebtedl to Glenys Thomas for her permission to use her review of this book. Glenys was a tutor on DipSw/CSS/CQSW and a lecturer in Group Work in the West Midlands before becoming a Carer.
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