Stroke Survivors

Stressing the psychological recovery of stroke victims from helplessness, despair and loss of self-esteem, this three-year study is based on 70 stroke survivors whose inspiring stories are recounted. Bergquist heads the Professional School of Psychology in San Francisco and Sacramento; Kobylinski is a clinical social worker; and McLean, who has almost completely recovered from a stroke he suffered 20 years ago at age 20, teaches disabled children. Divided into four parts, the book describes what it's like to have a stroke and various stages of the attack, adapting to the consequences, ``reentering the world'' and rehabilitation. A sound social-support structure is emphasized as crucial for preparing survivors to cope with the obstacles, both physical and psychological, they face after a stroke. Of particular value as a sensitivity guide for caretakers. (Sept.)