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Introducing a new feature of our Library - Reviews Our Library is open to the public. If you wish to borrow a book, please contact Betsy Emerson, 914-682-1484, Ext 16   .

. FINAL GIFTS by Maggie Callanan & Patricia Helley Published by Poseidon Press A dying person gives his/her family & friends gifts of memories, love and hope. Those closest give their gifts in turn. The author presents actual events of a dying person and the reactions of both family and caregivers. These illustrations can be most beneficial to anyone who finds himself/herself in this situation. Emphasis is on dignity, honesty, and unconditional love for the dying. The book relates difficult decisions made by the family/caregivers which ultimately bring a peaceful closure. Report by Rosalie T. Hallacy Hospice Volunteer 12/7/2000

. DYING WELL by Ira Byock, M.D. Published Riverhead Books New York During Dr. Byock's residency training required to practice rural family medicine he brings his father to live with him after becoming aware of the father's terminal illness. Through the months of caring for his father, he gains a deep insight to the meaning of living with dignity while the patient is actually dying. He moves to Montana to set up his family practice and emergency treatment clinic in rural Missoula. His encounters with the terminally ill in this area spurs him on to initiate a Hospice progrm. Within the pages of this book you will read of the physical, emotional and spiritual lives of patients who are terminally ill. You'll learn how these patients, their families and friends cope with living and dying with the aid of the Hospice program. Report by Rosalie T. Hallacy Hospice Volunteer 1/22/2001

. A GRIEF OBSERVED by C.S. Lewis and an afterword by Chad Walsh paper-back publisher Bantam Book by arrangements with the Seabury Press The author shares his agony of loss after the death of his wife. Anger at God for taking his beloved, he almost loses his Christian faith. A book certainly worth reading for anyone in bereavement. Report by Rosalie T. Hallacy Hospice Volunteer 1/22/2001

. LET SOMEONE HOLD YOU Author: Paul F. Morrissey Published: CROSSROAD New York Travel with Paul (a Hospice priest) into the lives of people who are terminally ill. He vividly recounts their feelings of anger, denial, pain, courage and unconditional love. Paul learns that a gentle hug, a soft touch and a willing ear are the real medicines which those living with terminal illness crave. With permission, he gathers the caregivers around the patient to join him in anointing the pain-filled body with oil. Paul chooses bible readings familiar to all faiths and prays that peace will descend into the hearts of all as death approaches. (I truly think this is an excellent read for me as a volunteer and for all on the Hospice team.) Report by Rosalie T. Hallacy Hospice Volunteer January 25,2001

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