Rebirth: From the Life and Journals of Philip Bach

Philip Bach
Xlibris (2009)
ISBN 9781436386517
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (07/10)


None of us ever know when a devastating illness will strike us or a loved one. We are never prepared.  It happened to the author who had a great life, things were going well and he had a beloved family.  In 1975, the author had a massive stroke- his life would never be the same again. Illnesses like this can make or break a person and their family. And so for twelve years, the author fought to gain back what he had; almost lost his family and came into contact with medical professionals who really didn’t care.

It’s amazing the challenges we go through on a daily basis- who do we turn to? God? Family? Friends? Even though all have comforting words or maybe even don’t know what to say, we still have the Higher Power to guide us.  Regardless of what that Higher Power is, we still have the question – “Why Me?” What did we do to deserve this? What I found amazing is that friends will be there initially, but they go on with their lives and don’t give you a second thought. Should they?

Can you imagine what it is like to be healthy one day and the next you rely on others to care for you in all aspects, even talk for you? Through journals the author kept, he is able to recount the days of pain, crying and hating everyone. This is not a misery story, but one of determination to get back some semblance of our life.  He goes into great detail of his thoughts, many times distorted and days he thought he should end his life so others didn’t suffer.

This book really gives a great inside look on how those affected by a devastating illness feel and what their thoughts are. It says to all families and individuals- fight for your life. In addition, it tells readers what family members feel and what happens when they want to give up. There is always hope.

During the course of the author’s illness, his mother died and he tried to get his father to live with his family so they could care for him. The only thing I can say from my own experience, and the author’s, is parent’s can be stubborn.  Then his wife got very sick and again the medical profession tried all avenues or just plain gave up.

This book is about strength, hope and courage. It’s not sappy- it’s the honest experience of an individual who wouldn’t give up. Regardless of what God gives you- you have to make a decision- just to let it all go or fight and the author fought.

“Rebirth” is very insightful for all with a family member who has a grave illness. I recommend this book to all my psychology students and families/individuals that experience life-changing situations.

Make comment on weblog

FTC Disclosure