Book Review of Huntington’s and Me    Reviewed By Pauline Roberts
A Guide for Young People
by Alison Gray
Huntington’s Disease Association (Wgtn) Inc.
61 pages, $12-00 plus postage.

Huntington’s Disease is a neurological condition that is progressive and incurable. There is a 50/50 chance of inheriting the gene for those that have a parent with Huntington’s. Considered a family disease because of the rippled effect it has on those surrounding the affected person, for young people with Huntington’s in their lives this book is the map they need. Clearly written, accurate and insightful, it provides resources, knowledge, understanding and most of all, hope, for negotiating this difficult territory. Sketches (Bronnie Webb) throughout the pages give instant recognition to signposts along the way. In chapter four 'Tools To Help You Cope', the author states 'Learning to cope is a bit like being a fish swimming up a river full of rapids and boulders, floating logs and other obstacles. To get to a calm place takes strength, determination, courage, hope and optimism. And a fair bit of skill. You need to be able to recognise the obstacles and find a way through them, round them or over them. If you're going to make it, you'll have to be fit, so the first person to look after is yourself.' Alison Gray, writer and researcher, Dorothy Tortell, social worker, Virginia Nees, chairperson of Wellington HD Association, Chris Warring, book and cover design, & Bronnie Webb, illustrator have produced an informative, well-researched book. From the cover, which exudes life, sensitivity and colour, through the enthusiastic and sometimes gut wrenching quotes from young people involved, to the vision of hope at the end, this is 61 pages of support and sustenance. Huntington’s is a disturbing and challenging condition to deal with. Whether you are at risk, know or live with someone with HD, or just want to know more, this is the book for you. I would recommend and encourage the medical profession, schools and libraries to obtain and read a copy . A complex disease with many roads diverging, this guide is invaluable.
'I have happy days, sad days, soft and angry days....I've stopped looking for cures on the internet. What I learned is that it’s not about how long I've got, but it is important to live my life day by day, learning as I go to be the best that I can be,'(Tina, 6 years after she tested positive with Huntington’s Disease).

(Reviewed by Pauline Roberts)