The riddle closes in.  I can hear its heavy footsteps, echoing in my ears.  The dark brings out that which the day hides.

(Excerpt from Beautiful Affliction)

Lene Fogelberg knows what it is like to live with an undiagnosed medical condition and to be turned away time and again from doctors.  In Beautiful Affliction she tells her story with poetic flourish and deep insight.  She expertly captures the fear and suffering of living with the unknown.

Beautiful Affliction, however, is more than just a diary of medical disclosures:  it is a testament to love, and the importance of trusting that inner voice even when contradicted by authority.

Fogelberg’s memoir weaves together the past and the present – each chapter a snapshot of life from her perspective – thoughtfully selected and transcribed.

Although we do not share the same disease, much of what she has written resonates with me.  This is an excellent read for anyone dealing with health care issues, whether patient or caregiver.