Product Description
Dementia: The Monster Within
By: John Herbert van Roekel
Most families have “skeletons” in the closet. For this author’s family, there was a Monster, a type of dementia that robs loving, intelligent individuals of everything—their dignity, their personality, their memory, their finances, and their minds. The “skeletons” are the remains of loved ones after the Monster has finished with them. The family members who are not devoured by this beast are, even so, crippled and maimed by its effects on their loved ones.
Dementia: The Monster Within is not an extensive explanation of dementia, although we show some of the science involved to help give understanding. It is first and foremost the story of the author’s family, along with the stories of a few others who have met the Monster. Their experiences may be helpful in recognizing the initial assault. This book also provides a framework of essential steps necessary to prepare both caregiver and loved one for their futures. Most importantly, if you have been affected by this Monster, you should understand that you are not alone in your struggle.
There is an enormous responsibility in giving balance when sharing hope of curing these diseases. It would be unconscionable to offer false hope. Yet, there is every reason to have hope. As we write, clinical trials are being conducted for treatments, but each individual needs to be realistic—not every disease will be “cured” before causing harm to some of our loved ones. Tens of thousands of scientists in hundreds of research facilities around the world are making discoveries about dementia almost daily. Some of these discoveries will lead to treatments, and some will lead to cures of some of the dementias. We cannot give up hope that the future holds a way to … SLAY THE MONSTER!
Sonshine Mountain Retreat, Inc., Black Mountain, NC, Publisher with the assistance of Laurus Books.
Available in Standard and Premium color.
John H. van Roekel is a former Medical Technologist and Medical Salesperson. He holds a BS in Science and a Master’s in Public Health Administration. He has enjoyed serving in the International Lion’s Club, as well as being on the board of a small Georgia college. He is presently owner and operator of Raspberry Hill Bed and Breakfast in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and is CEO of SonShine Mountain Retreat.
Mr. van Roekel released Dementia, The Monster Within in October 2010. He has been asked to serve as the Southeastern U.S. area Support Group Leader for the Association for Fronto-temporal Dementia.
Jenny Hinsman – :