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The power of love…. through sickness and health!

Rated 5 out of 5
August 15, 2024

Sometimes the saddest stories can be the most beautiful. Sonia Discher’s is one of them. Her book, “Dealing With Early Onset Alzheimers,” turns something tragic into something beautiful. It inspires hope, empathy, and more importantly, love. Sonia’s husband, Steven, contracted early onset Alzheimers when he was only 50. Within 5 years, he was gone. They were high school sweethearts who had been married over 30 years. Of course she was crushed when she learned that he had the disease. But she never gave up on the man she loved. She cared for him till the very end. Even when he became more than she could handle, she was there every day to feed him, play and try to comfort him. Can you imagine watching your spouse slowly wither away, physically and mentally, over 5 years? Heart-wrenching! But Sonia used this tragedy for something positive. She wrote this book to not only remind us how precious life is, but to prepare anyone who may face such a challenge! If you’re a fan of love, real love, this book is for you. It’s hearatbreaking, and yet there is such a beautiful message within. In sickness and in heath, real love never wavers. It is always committed, always present, always caring. Everyone NEEDS to read this book, because we can all learn from it. My wife read it and said it was a stark reminder of just how precious I am to her, a reminder of how fragile life can be. Even the toughest, most masculine man can fall prey to disease. Nobody is impervious. God forbid any of you ever have to endure an experience like Sonia’s, but if you do, I pray that you approach it the way she did. With commitment, empathy and unbridled love. What an impressive woman. A saint. I hope everyone gives this book a read. It is sobering, scary, heart wrenching, and yet somehow beautiful. Truly a great read. Buy this book for the person you love, as a reminder of what they mean to you. It lets them know that good or bad, sickness or health, you’re there for the long haul.

God bless!

Gunner Alan Lindbloom

turning something tragic into something beautiful

Rated 5 out of 5
June 10, 2024

Sometimes the saddest stories can be the most beautiful. Sonia Discher’s is one of them. Her book, “Dealing With Early Onset Alzheimers,” turns something tragic into something beautiful. It inspires hope, empathy, and more importantly, love. Sonia’s husband, Steven, contracted early onset Alzheimers when he was only 50. Within 5 years, he was gone. They were high school sweethearts who had been married over 30 years. Of course she was crushed when she learned that he had the disease. But she never gave up on the man she loved. She cared for him till the very end. Even when he became more than she could handle, she was there every day to feed him, play and try to comfort him. Can you imagine watching your spouse slowly wither away, physically and mentally, over 5 years? Heart-wrenching! But Sonia used this tragedy for something positive. She wrote this book to not only remind us how precious life is, but to prepare anyone who may face such a challenge! If you’re a fan of love, real love, this book is for you. It’s hearatbreaking, and yet there is such a beautiful message within. In sickness and in heath, real love never wavers. It is always committed, always present, always caring. Everyone NEEDS to read this book, because we can all learn from it. My wife read it and said it was a stark reminder of just how precious I am to her, a reminder of how fragile life can be. Even the toughest, most masculine man can fall prey to disease. Nobody is impervious. God forbid any of you ever have to endure an experience like Sonia’s, but if you do, I pray that you approach it the way she did. With commitment, empathy and unbridled love. What an impressive woman. A saint. I hope everyone gives this book a read. It is sobering, scary, heart wrenching, and yet somehow beautiful. Truly a great read. Buy this book for the person you love, as a reminder of what they mean to you. It lets them know that good or bad, sickness or health, you’re there for the long haul.

God bless!

Gunner Lindbloom

Touching Story

Rated 5 out of 5
February 23, 2023

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 20, 2023

Dealing with the Early Onset of Alzheimer’s, Love, Laughter & Tears by Sonia Discher

The journey that Author Sonia Discher endured was heart breaking. “Dealing with the Early Signs of Alzheimer’s” details the ups and downs of taking care of a loved one from diagnosis to death.

Sonia gripping story will bring smiles as well as tears as you read her true experiences. She details every event significant to Steve’s illness and shows not only the repercussions for him, but also for herself. Sonia also provides insight into many avenues and resources to assist others in dealing with this debilitating disease.

I could feel the love that she shared for her husband with every word. I know it had to be difficult to recount the events in this book. This was an easy read and am glad I was able to learn so much about Early Onset of Alzheimer’s.

Mike Bowers

An inspiring story about a loving family

Rated 5 out of 5
February 16, 2023

This is a touching story of a serious illness, the last years of life, and the care of loving family members. Author Sonia cared for her beloved husband, Steve, for five years until his passing. Those were hard years, with everything from despair to joy. But the whole book is bursting with gratitude for all the time they spent together and for all the things said in life.

I cared for my dad when he was ill with cancer. And I went through the same feelings as Sonia. A hard time, but there was gratitude that he was still with us and I could talk to him. We had time to say goodbye during that time. And the grief wasn’t so all-encompassing anymore.

I think the author really needed to write this book to ease his loss and to share with us the knowledge and experience of going through such situations. And to feel that we are not alone in our grief. And even there are moments of joy. A huge thanks for this book.

Tanya D. McCallum

Great Book

Rated 5 out of 5
October 22, 2022

Meet author in a Uber ride, well written book and shows what a great spirit she has during these trials and tribulations. Great read. Highly recommend!!

Dm

Reviewed Jan 4, 2022

Rated 5 out of 5
January 25, 2022

I found this book very relatable because my Grandfather suffered with Alzheimer’s. I respect the Author for writing such an inspirational book to share the battle with the disease. I recommend this book to anyone who suffers with Alzheimer’s or has family that struggles with it, it is a very helpful guide that provides lots of methods of how to cope with it.

Andrew Hudson

We should all be prepared Reviewed in the United States on July 10, 2021

Rated 5 out of 5
December 23, 2021

Sonia narrates all her husband went through after being diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s at fifty. It’s incredible to see in minor details the day-by-day development of the disease and the struggles they faced as a family. I learned so much, and I will keep my eyes open to signs that would remain unnoticed otherwise. Good job. I recommend it to everyone.

Debbrinha

Love Wins Reviewed in the United States on February 3, 2021

Rated 5 out of 5
December 23, 2021

A heartbreaking read but a reassurance to anyone caring for a dying spouse or loved one. Thank you Sonia for sharing your story. The disease was different than my husband’s but our story is similar. All we can do is our very best and in the end, love wins. Love ALWAYS wins.

Phyl

very moving story Reviewed in the United States on July 9, 2021

Rated 5 out of 5
December 23, 2021

Thankfully, no one in my family has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. However, if this debilitating disease ever strikes my family, “Dealing with Early Onset Alzheimer’s: Love, Laughter & Tears” will be of great comfort to me.

Sonia Discher heartfelt story about her soulmate Steve touched upon the good and not-so-good moments since the diagnosis. She talked about more than just the disease. Sonia discussed his dedication to the military and his family. She added many photos of him and his loved ones, which made this story even more personal.

After finishing “Dealing with Early Onset Alzheimer’s: Love, Laughter & Tears,” I’m now more in tune with the side effects of the disease and resources available to me and/or my loved one.

Even though this is a story about losing someone, it was also a love story. A love a man had for his life, comrades, and friends. A love between father and daughter. A love a granddaughter had for her grandfather and his love for her.

Steve’s final moments made me tear up, but it only solidified what I knew from the start — Steve and Sonia loved each other very much.

Donna Glass

This book gives a real life perspective on Early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Reviewed in the United States on June 18, 2021

Rated 5 out of 5
December 23, 2021

Prior to reading this well written book I really did not know the difference between Early-on set Alzheimer and Alzheimer. The author takes you through her real life experience with this disease. I was truly amazed how she was able to inform and deliver this story so clearly especially knowing that she was watching her husband die in the process. I highly recommend this book to everyone because as this book illustrates Early-onset Alzheimer and Alzheimer are indiscriminate killers.

Gordon Russell

A Quiet Heroine

Rated 5 out of 5
May 30, 2021

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on May 29, 2021

This book is both heartbreaking and uplifting.

Sonia Discher tells the story of how her husband, Steve, was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s at the age of fifty, changing both of their lives forever.

She isn’t looking for pity in this book, nor is she filled with a ‘poor me’ attitude but she tells the reader how she got on with caring for her husband, searching for a cure, or at least something that could slow the progression of the illness and all the while loving the man who had been her childhood sweetheart and living life as normally as it was possible to do so for as long as they could.

It was hard not to shed a tear and I found myself reaching for the tissues many times as I read on to this story’s inevitable conclusion.

Her bravery, her compassion and her dedication shine through every page.

Amanda Sheridan

Heartwarming, and Heartbreaking

Rated 5 out of 5
May 26, 2021

Sonia Discher’s heartwarming, and heartbreaking ordeal with dealing with her husband’s early onset of Alzheimer’s diesis at the age of 50. Many of us are hit by dementia or Alzheimer’s in elderly relatives, as indeed I was. Whilst this is the story of Steve Sonia and the daily ordeals they faced it will also be a great help and comfort for anybody going through this with a relation a spouse or a partner. The dedication shown by Sonia was heart-warming and her dogmatic way of dealing with it is full credit to her. A strong recommendation to read this battle against one of the worst illnesses a person can get.

Tony Hampson

Beautiful and honest.

Rated 5 out of 5
May 1, 2021

I followed Steve and Sonia’s story and after reading Sonia’s book was reminded of the love that was the ultimate core of the relationship.

The book is beautifully and honestly written through love and tears and laughter. Alzheimer’s is a devastating disease to watch a loved one struggle with.

Sonia was strong, gracious , humbling and human the entire journey by sharing her raw emotions. She also loads the book with information that can be helpful to many.

Excellent source of resources, guidance and inspiration!!!

Eliza Tyler

Apr 03, 2021 it was amazing

Rated 5 out of 5
April 30, 2021

First and foremost, I could not stop reading this, it was quite hard to put down I have to admit.

This tragic story completely opened me up to Alzheimer’s and how it can affect loved ones and those around you. I’ve never experienced Alzheimer’s but this completely opened my mind and heart to it. This story moved me and some parts made me cry. This is truly a story about how devoted a wife is to her husband, through sickness, and in health. This story shows the hardships of Sonia and Steve, it gives you a glimpse into their daily lives and how truly heartbreaking it is to have a loved one with a diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s.

I want to thank you so much for sharing your journey darling. You’re so strong. I’ve learned many new things, your journey truly moved me. I am not one to read non-fiction but this was truly a book that brought tears to my eyes, I hope those are open to reading this story. Though I would recommend having a box of tissues next to you. A truly amazing read, would highly recommend it.

E.V. Browne

Difficult Subject Handled with Care

Rated 5 out of 5
March 28, 2021

Nobody wants to learn a loved one has been given, essentially, a death sentence.

It’s harder when it’s at a relatively young age.

And it’s almost impossible when you’re going to have to watch their mind – the person you love – fall apart first.

Sonia Discher tackles this without flinching, relating with pathos, humor, and an overwhelming sense of love her husband’s tale.

You’re going to laugh, and cry, and be amazed by her strength and humanity.

Adam Gaffen

Genre: Practical Motivational & Self Help

Rated 5 out of 5
February 17, 2021

I knew that this book was going to be an emotional one for me.

This is written as a memoir almost. It is gritty and real and Discher doesn’t hold back with truth here in this motivational book. She moves slowly through the early life of her and Steve, her beloved husband. Their life was incredibly happy until he was diagnosed with Early Onset Alzheimer’s at age 50. She lays everything bare, the good, the bad and the ugly.

It is tough to read at some points but it is incredibly beneficial to see the effect that this disease had on her whole life. I don’t think people can really understand how all encompassing this illness truly is, I know I didn’t.

It isn’t all doom and gloom though. The hardships are beautifully intertwined with amazing, funny, romantic and lovely anecdotes. They showed the small moments of happiness that was found between the lines of obstacle. It was clear to me that Discher is an incredibly strong woman to go through all this and be able to so eloquently offer her help to other families in the midst of this trauma.

The pictures were a lovely touch and I was incredibly emotional as the story developed towards the end.

This book is a heart-breaking tale of love that endures all. It was a privilege to read it.

Lauren Kilinc

Love Wins

Rated 5 out of 5
February 4, 2021

I went to high school with Sonia and Steve. I knew how this book would end and it was heartbreaking to learn what they had to endure. But as someone who also cared for a dying spouse, it was a reassurance that I too had done all that I could. In the end, love wins. Love ALWAYS wins.

Phyllis Marshall Gowans

Informative, recollection of a family’s painful journey through a devastating disease.

Rated 5 out of 5
December 27, 2020

I’ve learned from this book that I could have done some things differently, and that instincts play an important role in dealing with a loved one who was affected late in life with Alzheimer’s disease. I was brought to tears reading when each time Sonia recanted a defeat in her efforts, and would lose some ground to the disease. I can’t imagine the strength, determination, and resourcefulness she would bring to the fight for Steve’s life each and every day. I am honored to call her friend.

Glen Horvath

Early Onset Alzheimer’s

Rated 5 out of 5
December 9, 2020

Wonderful book. Steve’s wife was his ultimate advocate. My heart breaks for her. She gave a view into the world of early onset Alzheimer’s and showed that there were still good days. Thank you for sharing your journey.

Andrew S. – Reviewed in the United States on November 22, 2020

Informative, heartful and very helpful!

Rated 5 out of 5
November 14, 2020

Reviewed in the United States on November 12, 2020

As someone who experienced caring for someone with early-onset Alzheimer’s for years (Father), I can honestly say this book has the best guidelines for someone who doesn’t know anything about the subject and is in a situation where they need help! It tackles lots of issues, obstacles, and challenges and how to deal with them in a practical sustainable way. With helpful tips and tricks, and a full view of what’s to expect along the way, and how to focus on the patient’s wellbeing. This is a great book that I wish I had at the time of need, I had to learn everything on my own, and even afterwards I couldn’t explain it as good as this book does! highly recommended!

M.K. Ragab Reviewed in the United States on November 12, 2020

Goodreads review by Elijah, son of Michael S

Rated 5 out of 5
November 13, 2020

Dealing With Early Onset Of Alzheimer’s by Sonia Discher, sadly, is the heartbreaking true story of her late husband Steve. It took three evenings to read because of my daytime commitments, but it was worth the time spent reading. It’s an easy, well-written read that’s inspirational and informative with no punches pulled. And it’s a very humbling account of how to care for someone with a debilitating illness like Alzheimer’s or mental health problems. After reading this book, I can only imagine what the family went through and consider myself lucky that I’m fit and reasonably healthy. Worth 5 stars and more. Posted by Elijah, son of Michael S.

Michael Siddall

A Special Book – Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 October 2020

Rated 5 out of 5
October 27, 2020

Not only does this book give an emotion filled insight into caring and living with a loved one with dementia, written in an engaging and inspirational way but it also offers tips and advice for anyone in a similar situation.

It’s a special book and you’ll find it hard to put down for long.

RJ

Tragic ! -Oct 10, 2020

Rated 5 out of 5
October 25, 2020

This book was emotionally hard to read but useful in helping people cope with a loved one with Alzheimer’s. The author’s story is nothing short of tragic to think that the disease would strike her husband at such a young age. I found the sections on caregivers, medication, and resources especially helpful.

M. Henningham

Goodreads review

Rated 5 out of 5
October 25, 2020

Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. My grandfather has Dementia, and his decline has been hard on our family but he is 88 years old and he has had a full wonderful life. I feel for Sonia and Steve so much. They still had so much of their lives ahead of them, it breaks your heart. I would recommend this book to anyone, you don’t have to have someone who is suffering from this disease to read and gain something from this book. It makes you remember that tomorrow is promised to no one and to make the most of your time on this earth. Live, Laugh and Love. I wish you all the best in the world Sonia and your family.

Melissa Jordan

Goodreads review – October 10, 2020

Rated 5 out of 5
October 25, 2020

A story of how despite the odds being stacked against them, love shines through pain, disease and also, beyond death. A tale of compassion, this is a wife’s account of her husband’s descent into Alzheimer’s. She leaves nothing out. Not the laughs, the scrapes or the pain. The personal photographs shared testify to the bond Steve shared with his granddaughter, “the apple of his eye” – this book will tug at your heartstrings. Recommended

Ermelinda Makkimane

Goodreads review

Rated 5 out of 5
October 25, 2020

I think this is a must read for anyone who works in the long-term health industry. I was a receptionist at a long-term care facility and can totally agree that staff never gets the time they need with the residents, I spend more than 7 minutes getting ready on any given day. I am sorry for your loss. Please know you did all the right things for Steve and you are right that he was able to hear and feel your love every time he saw you.

Kathleen

What a difficult and painful journey – Reviewed in the United Kingdom – 4 October 2020

Rated 5 out of 5
October 25, 2020

Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. My grandfather has Dementia, and his decline has been hard on our family but he is 88 years old and he has had a full wonderful life. I feel for Sonia and Steve so much. They still had so much of their lives ahead of them, it breaks your heart. I would recommend this book to anyone, you don’t have to have someone who is suffering from this disease to read and gain something from this book. It makes you remember that tomorrow is promised to no one and to make the most of your time on this earth. Live, Laugh and Love. I wish you all the best in the world Sonia and your family.

Karen Townsley

very comforting – August 6, 2020

Rated 5 out of 5
October 25, 2020

Living with someone struggling with this disease is one of the hardest, most heartbreaking times in life. My father had this illness for a long time and it was so hard for all of us. It is the worst realization when you notice your loved one slipping away. This is very comforting to see someone else’s side of things and her struggle with her husband as he slowly begins to forget things. I really enjoyed the photos of them as it helps connect you with the experience even greater. I would recommend this book for any age that is dealing with someone that has, had this illness and or someone who is holding onto the grieving process and can not seem to let go. This author helps one stay positive and learn how to make the best decisions and the future a little bit brighter. This book has made me feel better and see things more clearly, and I have been holding onto the grief for 4 years. Thank you!

Crystal

More than just a story – August 7, 2020

Rated 5 out of 5
October 25, 2020

First of all, thank you to the author for sharing your journey with early-onset Alzheimers. I personally learnt some new things from this book for example, I never knew a thing called respite exited which I will definitely be looking into for my mam.

The book gives you glimpses into what it was like for this family, especially Sonia and Steve going through their day to day lives with this disease. What I loved most about it though was there was one thing that was portrayed all the way through the book and that one thing… was LOVE.

I received a free copy of this book for my honest opinion and I am so happy that I got to read it, thank you.

Kindle Customer

Inspiring Story of Love August 8, 2020

Rated 5 out of 5
October 25, 2020

This book is an inspiration for caregivers and family members dealing with Alzheimer’s disease, as well as caregivers caring for loved ones with other disorders. The Author reveals the battle she and her family faced when dealing with such a tragic diagnosis. You will find humor, sadness, and triumph in the face of dispair and understand how the author’s family made it through all the seemingly impossible hurdles that hit their family while this disease progressed before their eyes. Their decisions, in the good times and bad times, will teach readers that you can maintain your sanity and your life (altering as needed) while finding reality in some of the most difficult times you may be faced with.

Luce Wood