Representing a wide variety of illnesses and disabilities, different cultures and religions, both contemporary and classic time periods, Finding Hope and Compassion is a diverse collection of inspiring stories, essays, and poems showing how to be more compassionate, how to talk and act around people who suffer, and how to take consolation and inspiration from those who live in seemingly insurmountable situations. Each of the authors in this anthology has a unique point of view about illness and disability based on their own personal experiences. They tell their true stories in a way that brings comfort and meaning to others by showing what they have learned. Those who offer medical care such as nurses, doctors, medical students, and others in the medical community, those who are sick, suffering, or living with disabilities, as well as their friends and family who care for them will benefit from the helpful, positive lessons in these stories and poems. From C. Everett Koop, M.D., ScD, Former Surgeon General of the United States, "Celebrate with them the values we cherish: courage, compassion, valor, and patience. You will learn that chronic illness is not necessarily hopeless illness." -