Lightening the Shadow

Lightening the Shadow: Diagnosing and Living with an Invisible Chronic Illness is a memoir by Darla Nagel about her experiences and lessons learned from getting a diagnosis of and learning to live with ME/CFS. It was published in 2018.

Synopsis
An active, overachieving nineteen-year-old’s college education was diverted by a crash course in investigating diagnoses and scaling back life plans after crushing exhaustion, cognitive difficulties, and other symptoms developed following a cold. Crash she nearly did because of disbelieving doctors and treatments that harmed more than helped and the near failure of her family and faith to offset the damage.

What didn’t fail was her determination to have a meaningful life despite her invisible illness. She continued her studies and career preparation for two years even as symptoms multiplied and worsened, plunging her into depression and guilt for depending on others. Once she received a tentative and later certain diagnosis of an incurable condition, she rebuilt a life that gave her what she valued: the ability to help others and financial security.

This memoir doesn’t end with a heartwarming recovery. However, the crash course taught seven lessons that everyone with a chronic illness or invisible disability should know. Among all the noise about how to start living a healthy lifestyle, here is a distinct voice on how to start living a chronically ill lifestyle.

Reception
“Filled with wisdom, practical advice, and a detailed illustration of what patients experience.” Leonard A. Jason, PhD, Professor of Psychology, DePaul University

“Her voice is relatable, honest, and unflinching; she doesn’t shy away from discussing difficulties.” Amazon review

“I appreciate the clear picture she creates opening my eyes to unique and often overlooked challenges of people suffering silently with an invisible illness.” Amazon review

Online presence
https://www.darlanagel.com/

https://twitter.com/DarlaNagel3

Learn more
Article "Living in the Shadow of ME" by Darla Nagel: https://beonthetown.com/living-in-the-shadow-of-me/2018-sept-oct/

Article "Light in the Darkness of Doubt" by Darla Nagel: https://wels.net/light-in-the-darkness-of-doubt/