 |
Guest Book
Share Your Thoughts
Sign the Guest Book
05/18/2008
I just recently gave birth to my second son on April 27, 2008. I am going through PPD once again, as I did three years ago with my first son. It is hell again, and hate the fact that I feel this way. I know that with time I will be better again. Right now I am in need of support and resources to get me through this once more.
-Lezley Mount, Monmouth, IL
04/30/2008
I can't tell you how much it has affected me to know that there was a book on the issue of post partum depression just floating out there just for me. Your story has impacted my life and has touched my heart in a very powerful way, along with all of the other women's stories. I can't thank you enough for writing this book, for taking the time, tears and energy out of your life to write this inspiring wonderful and blessed book that I'm sure has affected thousands of women.
I literally went thru hell and back, and thank the Lord that I have my "mind" back…and also my physical stamina is returning. I had a severe case of mono thru my PPD and could not sleep for eight weeks, therefore, making my mind escape me and my body depleted to the point that I became suicidal. I was hospitalized for 6 days in a psychiatric hospital and did out-patient counseling for nearly 6 weeks. Thank God for my wonderful and supportive husband and mother who stood by me every step of the way. I am finally beginning to feel like me again.
Thank you again for your courage, your kindness and loving words of encouragement throughout your book, and God bless all of those women who choose to step out and tell their story. It has meant more to me than you will ever know.
-Jaana Flaherty, Keller, TX
02/05/2008
Even though I am recovered I still read your book. PPD, which I suffered from severely, is still a huge part of my life now – and probably always will be – and it feels good to me to see where I was and where I am now. I can see myself in so many of the different women in you book. It's been said before and before, but it IS good to know that you're not the only one who suffered from PPD and that there is indeed recovery. Thanks!!!
-Kerstin, Eugene, OR
02/02/2008
Thank you so much for compiling these personal stories of PPD survival into one truly encouraging and supportive book. I am still in the process of recovering from severe PPD and this book has become my Bible. Whenever I am feeling discouraged, I read a couple pages in the book and am again reminded that others have faced the same situation that I am currently in and have gotten better. There is no therapy or drug that is more helpful than knowing that others have "been there". This book has given me the strength and hope that things can and WILL get better. I'm fighting this disease and am determined to win!!
-Sarah, St Paul, MN
01/17/2008
I will certainly go tomorrow and buy this book as I am on the path of recovery of PPD and I believe it is important to learn that there is light at the end of the tunnel and what a better way than to hear it from successful woman who had defeated this illness. Thanks for your inspiring thoughts in advance.
-Sandy, Canada
01/03/2008
I am currently recovering from a severe post partum depression. It was my indenial that leads me to the mental hospital. Thanks to my OB Dr. who save my life and my family's happiness. My next move is to join a support group and help in awareness campaign about PPD.
-Kimberly C, Rockamrt, GA
06/15/2007
Since my recovery from postpartum psychosis, I have become a member of Postpartum Support International and moderate a peer support group in my home town. It's been very therapeutic to talk about what happened to me…my melt-down from the baby blues to severe postpartum depression to eventual hospitalization for a pyschotic break.
I like your book a lot Sandra. I believe bringing stories of recovery to light is one way to give mothers hope that with treatment, they can heal from postpartum mood disorders. We have three copies of Mother-to-Mother in our group library, and I have loaned it to many moms recovering from PPD. It is essential for survivors to be willing to share their experiences, and your book is very balanced with very personal stories.
Sincerely,
-Sarah F, Hobart, Indiana
05/30/2007
Before I read "Mother to Mother", I thought "no one really feels this way to their own babies…I must be a freak." But then I read your book and discovered other mothers had my exact thoughts and symptoms. Now I can finally open up to my husband and doctor. I feel as though a big weight has been lifted. Thank you so much!
-Lauribeth K, Rockford, Illinois
02/27/2007
If you saw my son and I playing in the park, you might think what a beautiful bond we have.However, this was not the case in the beginning. After my son was born, I thought I was losing my mind. I was sooo tired and I cried all the time. I just wanted to be alone and sleep for days, but my body/mind could not rest. Every night I would go to bed thinking I would wake up in a mental hospital. After a rough pregnancy and traumatic delivery I just wanted to escape. I suffered anxiety attacks on my way to work. Long story short...I saw my doctor and was prescribed anti depressant medication, and I'm in a much better place now.
Now that I've recovered, I don't get as mad anymore, at women who have "wonderful deliveries" and bounce right back from childbirth. I just wish we women were not "expected" to bounce back!!!
Thank you for your book, which lets women know that it is okay to admit what they are feeling with PPD. Those women should know they will become stronger when they admit their symptoms and get help. Just know that no matter how bad you might feel today, it will go away and your bond with your baby will be stronger because you survived PPD!!!
-Angie B, Lafayette, Lousiana
02/08/2007
I survived postpartum anxiety and OCD with my first born and we are expecting our second baby in June. I just wanted to say a big thank you to you Sandra for sharing these women's incredible stories of strength and recovery in the face of such adversity. I loved the way the book seemed to cover all facets of PPD. Although I am fearful of the prospect of suffering with PPD again after the birth of my second child I know I will gain strength and companionship from the women's voices in your wonderful book.
-Danielle, Ottawa, Canada
02/07/2007
Because of your book, I have found a level of forgiveness for myself from the terrible thoughts that I had. Your book has given me fodder for my therapy and also helped me realize that all the times I thought I was a bad mother, that was the depression talking, not me. Reading "Mother to Mother", I found so many personal accounts where other mom's seem to peg exactly what I was going through. I am now passionate about helping new moms know they have sources and ways to survive this and they don't have to be alone like I was. One thing is for sure. I want to design a bumper sticker that says "I am a PPD Survivor!." With Respect and Admiration,
-Colleen M, Dallas Texas
11/03/2006
I had a baby boy nine months ago, and I felt something was wrong a week after he was born. I was extremely overwhelmed by the responsiblity. Insomnia and anxiety riddled me. I would not sleep at night and the insomnia became obsessive. I didn't understand why this was happening to me. I have always been such a strong person and have got through anything. I never suffered from anxiety or depression before.
After much trial and error I finally found a doctor that knew what he was talking about when it came to PPD. I'm on an anti depressant now that is finally working. I have five friends who have all just had babies, and all of them are coping so well. I feel like screaming! Why didn't I feel that way? I can't help but resent them. Every day is still a battle, but I know that I will recover. After reading your book with all the stories from mothers who did recover, I know that one day I'll be better. Your book has given me hope!
My husband said to me "what you are going through makes you special and unique and your bond with our son will be even more special because you will appreciate him so much more." I believe this.
For those moms out there suffering from PPD, we will get better. Love to you all and God Bless. Thanks so much for your great book Sandy!
-Leigh N, South Africa
10/29/2006
I am now on the road to recovery from experiencing terrifying months of postpartum depression. My baby boy is seven months old. He is my first. After three weeks of surviving on an hour or less of sleep per night, my sisters took me to a hospital. Over the past several months I have seen many therapists, who have all had different opinions as to what would help me and what was wrong with me. I felt so alone. I couldn't drive so my mom came to stay with me and took me to all the therapist appointments. I am finally starting to feel better as the current anti depressant medication prescribed to me is lifting the fog.
I recently discovered your "Mother-to-Mother Postpartum Depression Support Book" where mothers have shared their stories. I wish so much that I would have read it months ago! I could not believe when the first chapter started off with insomnia. It was like I was reading the words that I wrote. Why didn't my psychiatrist let me know or realize that sleeping problems could get this bad and is a common symptom of PPD? Instead she made me feel that I have an unusual major case of insomnia!
Thanks again Sandy, I am so grateful for the support that "The Mother-to-Mother Postpartum Depression Support Book: Real Stories from Women Who Lived Through It and Recovered" has provided me.
-Debbie, Pittsburgh, PA
10/8/2006
Sandy, thank you so much for your great passion to help moms recover from PPD. I began to feel so helpless and isolated when my baby girl turned four months old. I looked for help and found none. Friends are too busy with their own lives and we don't have family living near us. By chance, I saw your book in the children's area of a local library. What a surprise! I picked it up and started reading it right away. My goodness! The words in the book were the same as those deep in my heart...I just haven't had the chance to tell anyone yet. The next couple days I finished reading the whole book and felt so relieved and encouraged. I know I'm not alone, and I know my PPD will pass. And by reading "Mother-to-Mother" my husband has become more supportive and understanding of my depression. Thanks a lot, my sister!
-Demi Hu, Toronto, Ontario Canada
9/15/2006
Whe I suffered from postpartum depression, I felt so robbed by my body. No mother should ever look at her baby and feel those negative feelings. I hate my body for putting me through that as much as I love the very body that bore my two beautiful healthy babies. I hope no woman ever loses ten months with their little ones, like I did. I will never get that time back.
I promise you one thing…if I had a way of making sure that every woman having a baby could receive a copy of "Mother to Mother" when they leave the hospital after giving birth…I would make it happen. Even woman who don't suffer need to read it so they can be more understanding. I have more hurtful comments made by fellow mothers who never went through it then anybody else, that is a fact! So thanks to you for your book. It is a gift that you have provided real life stories. It is going to help so many people. It is a true blessing. And thank goodness for everyone who helps get the word out about this illness.
-Michelle Elliott, McMinnville, Oregon
7/16/2006
The Mother-to-Mother Postpartum Depression Support Book has been essential to my ongoing recovery from PPD. Hearing women who've been through it tell their stories has given me much more faith than all the well-meaning "You'll get betters" from doctors and friends. Without this book, I know I would be having a far, far harder time getting back to being me. I hope all women with PPD and their loved ones read it.
-Jenny Veit, Minneapolis, Minnesota
7/11/2006
To say that this is a small world, would not capture the moment I met Ms. Poulin at Postpartum Support International's 20th Annual Conference in New Jersey. On the way to the PSI luncheon one day, I started talking to Sandy by chance, not knowing who she was. I couldn't believe I was talking to the woman who wrote such an incredible support book. I was someone who was afraid to speak up about what was happening to me (PPD.) I happened to find her book, and it has helped me on my road to finding the care I needed tremendously. Reading Mother-to-Mother was like opening my diary, it all sounded so familiar. What a comfort to know that this book is out there...
-Jennifer Ferraro, RN, Mastic, New York
7/05/2006
I was eagerly awaiting your book shipment so that I could use them to give my clients with postpartum depression. I've given it to two women recently and they both loved it! They said Mother-to-Mother was so helpful, that it was easy for them to recognize their own experiences through the mothers in the book, and it was such a relief to them to know they weren't alone. Thank you for writing this book!
-Suzanne Swanson, Ph.D., L.P, St Paul, Minnesota
6/29/2006
First off, I just want to let you know that I read your book every day to remind myself that I will get well. I commend you for writing this book. What a beautiful thing you have done. It is nice to know that the process I am going through is normal. Although I wouldn't wish this postpartum depression on anyone in the world, I know that I will recover now and that is mainly from reading your book. How wonderful all the mothers are for particating in your book, and I'm so grateful you took the time to write it. "Mother to Mother" has been a key factor in my recovery process.
-Ann Marie, Arizona
6/23/2006
Sandy, thank you for your caring spirit to make life better for those at risk for or experiencing perinatal depression. Also, thank you to the women who shared their stories now bringing comfort and reassurance to women and families. Mother-to-Mother is a wonderful book for moms and is a must read for those supporting moms-to-be and mothers everywhere. At the Postpartum Resource Center of New York we are pleased to suggest your book to everyone.
-Sonia Murdock, West Islip, New York
6/20/2006
I cannot begin to express how it feels to see my words about this experience bound in print like this. To say it's very validating doesn't even begin to capture it. Thank you, though those words seem insignificant, for giving me and all the moms in the book and reading it a voice. This should be the book at doctors' offices, for doctors to read so they can begin to understand. I'll be sure to promote the book as an educational, and deep from the heart truth telling, tool for moms and medical professionals alike. Thank you, Sandy.
-Diane A., Hawaii
6/19/2006
Thank you, Sandy, for helping me through my PPD. I live in New Jersey and searched and searched for a support group and found nothing at the time I most needed it - in crisis. I finally found your book while browsing in a store and finished it one sitting. Some of the excerpts should have had my name on top. I was a pleasure meeting you at the PSI conference and thank you for being a part of saving my life and I'm sure many others!
-Kathy Elleo, Wyckoff, New Jersey
6/18/2006
Sandy, having founded Families for Depression Awareness to help families recognize and cope with depressive disorders through Family Profile stories and education, I am truly impressed with your book. The postpartum time is when most women, if they are going to experience depression, do. These stories help mothers and their partners understand that they are not alone and help is available.
-Julie Totten, Waltham, Massachusetts
4/10/2006
Your book will help so many women realize that they are not alone. With this knowledge and support, they will be able to begin their journey to health and well being. Thank you for your courage. Best Wishes,
-Debbie Waxman, Certified Jin Shin Jyutsu Practitioner/Self Help Instructor, Gilbert, Arizona
4/09/2006
Sandy, for many years you've shown the love, compassion, heart and soul to make your book happen. You are an inspiration to others, and I'm so proud of you, "my angel." Congratulations! Love,
-Caren Krasno, Eastridge, Tennessee
4/08/2006
Sandy, I am so very proud of you. It is unbelivable what you went through and as always you can make something negative into a positive. Your persitence and hard work on this subject has paid off for you and many women in this world. Thank you for making such a wonderful contribution to society.
-Kelly Secker, Dallas, Texas
3/29/2006
Sandy! Congratulations on your book. We saw your interview on CBS 11 and you were amazing! You were my inspiration as we went through invitro & pregnancy and then that terrifying moment when we brought our son home. I know how hard you worked on this book, it's hugely important that people understand how dangerous and prevelant PPD is, and that we support new moms through it all. We are so proud of you! The Smith family is doing well and we send our love to you, and your family!
-Kristen Smith, Ovilla, Texas
3/27/2006
I've always known myself to be intelligent, efficient, positive, thoughtful and kind...what I didn't know is that PPD doesn't care about any of that. Your book will help many new moms!
-Tenley Coulter, Fleming Island, Florida
3/24/2006
Watching you as a Mom taught me more than you'll ever know. Most of all, I learned to be the best Mom, sometimes you have to ask for help. You truly are a role model and positive influence for everyone who knows you. You're such a wonderful person and I am so glad God has blessed me with your friendship!
-Melissa Bennett, The Poulin's Nanny, Amarillo, Texas
3/21/2006
Congratulations on your incredible accomplishment! Having had known you since the age of 12, you were the last person I thought would experience postpartum depression. I am so glad to have read your book because it opened my eyes up and taught me so much about PPD. Because of your efforts and sincere concern for humanity, your book is going to help so many women and families all over the world. I am so proud to be your friend. Love,
-Annette O'Brien, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
3/17/2006
I am a recovering postpartum psychosis stay at home mon of 3 boys soon to be 4. It is great a blessing to have someone to write a book like this. I am a firm believer in meds and therapy, I see my doctor every month and a nurse visits my home at least twice a month. Those three days that I spent in a mental hospital really opened my eyes. There is hope and happiness out there.
-Sherri O., Mount Pearl, Newfoundland Canada
3/12/2006
Congratulations, Sandy, on a much needed discussion of a critical topic. Having known you for so many years, I have always felt the warmth of your concern for others. Thanks, for giving so much to this project, and our very best wishes.
-Neil and Lynne Sperry, Neil Sperry's Texas Gardening Show, KRLD/Texas State Network
3/09/2006
Congratulations on your new book! I wish you HUGE success, because I know this was a labor of love.
-Karen Mitchell, J.D. and group chair for Vistage, the world's largest CEO membership organization. Colorodo Springs, Colorodo
2/26/2006
Wow! Your dream of helping others with PPD is finally a reality, my friend. I am so proud of you for your recovery, determination, and awesome spirit and wonderful friendship. Love,
-Gail Martinez, Weatherford, Texas
2/21/2006
Congratulations on your beautiful and important book. Women who suffer from postpartum depression will benefit because you had the courage to share your struggle and encouraged others to do so as well. Best Wishes,
-Jodi Glater, Lakewood, Colorodo
2/18/2006
This is a very needed and helpful work. Thank you for your courage, time and focused attention that you put into this area of family health. I plan to forward this website to all my seniors at SDSU in the School of Nursing, 12 of whom are in women's health settings. With warm regards,
-Gail Reiner, Imperial Beach, California
2/14/2006
Congratulations on your enormous accomplishment! Years ago, I witnessed your struggle with postpartum depression which springboarded you into great action. Since that time, you have opened your heart to others who experienced what you went through.
After countless hours of hard work and dedication, you birthed a book and website, two resources containing valuable information and the gift of hope.
Postpartum depression is real. The stories in your book are a contribution to all including those at risk and the healthcare professionals responsible for their care. You have made our world a better place. With love and admiration.
-Terri Krasno Cohee RN, BSN, Neonatal ICU
1/23/2006
Sandy, so proud of you. I know you went through A LOT and worked for years gathering information for your book. I'm certain many, many moms and others will benefit from your efforts. (And for sure, this good work will get you into heaven!) Website is beautiful, too. Congratualtions on this amazing accomplishment.
-Sandra Friedman, Past President, Association for Humanistic Psychology
1/8/2006
Sandy, with your courage and determination, women around the world are going to benefit. Your heart, passion and soul are so clearly visible now. Congratulations on your journey coming to fruition. Through this book you are making an impact on the world.
-Chris Valletta, friend and contestant on "The Apprentice" Television Show, and author of the soon to be released book "Team Works! An On The Field Playbook for Building Business Teams that Win" with Foreword by Donald Trump.
12/19/2005
Dear Sandy - As the Founder of Postpartum Support International and a survivor of ppd, I want to thank you with all my heart for your dedication and hard work to bring the voices of postpartum women to the world. Your book is a major contribution to our movements' literature. Well done!
-Jane Honikman, Santa Barbara, California USA
|
|
 |
Price: $14.00
Order the book
Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Berkley Trade
ISBN: 0425208087
|
|
