Lean on Me

So down this frightening road, we’ll go together

Lean on me whenever you are tired…

The two-year journey of my husband’s terminal illness has taught me many things, above all, the true meaning of love and the strength of the human spirit. As I witnessed his incredible courage, it brought forth in me, a fierce determination to ease his journey.

My acquired knowledge regarding pain management and symptom control; enabled me to take an active role in his wellbeing, and as my efforts resulted in his improved quality of life, I lost my feelings of helplessness and gained strength.

Lean on Me is the product of thousands of words and millions of tears and born from my need to reach out to others, who are currently on the same journey as I have travelled.

It is a true story of love and devotion, a testament to the vows Brian and I pledged to each other on our wedding day 17th May 1969. “In sickness and in health, until death we do part”. As was our wish, Brian passed away peacefully at home. I found peace in the knowledge that I definitely made a difference.

It is my hope that Lean on Me brings inspiration and strength to others.

Reviews

Lean on Me is a superbly and beautifully written account of a cancer caregiver who left no stone unturned to make her beloved husband’s life as comfortable, happy and meaningful as possible. And provides a motivational force for all those faced with the unfortunate situation of witnessing a loved one suffer.

Radhika Gupte

Cancer Patients Aid Association: Cancer Patients Care India

I believe that this is a truly amazing book that everybody with cancer should read. I have not another book written by a lay person which so captures the essence of the battle against cancer, which also displays such a thorough understanding of the disease and its complexities. The way that Brian and Lorraine approach the illness and its treatment really provides hope for all who read this book Any families who have been touched by this disease will undoubtedly find in its inspiration and hope.

Dr Andrew Dean

MB Ch.B. MRCP (UK).FRACP Consultant Physician in Palliative Care

Lean on Me should have a place on the shelf of any hospice or palliative care service, to be loaned out to the ones who care for our patents and whose struggles and problems are often hidden by those of the patient. The emotional insights shared through Author Lorraine Kember’s diary would be a great comfort to anyone caring for someone with advanced cancer or any other terminal illness.

Roger Woodruff

Director of Palliative Care, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia

This book provides a valuable source of qualitative information and should be of assistance to those working in palliative care settings. I would recommend it as an optional text to students undertaking such studies as I feel it would supplement the theoretical information required by such a speciality.

Deborah Claire Mooney PhD

Faculty of Nursing and Health Science Griffith University, Queensland, Australia