Media
“Friedman makes it clear that while she thinks of herself as fighting on her husband’s behalf, she does not see the medical establishment as an adversary. Rather, she encourages patient advocates to stay as good-humored as possible, even when it seems that the big, impersonal health-care apparatus is ignoring the patient’s needs: ‘You never want to be rude or lose your temper,’ she warns. ‘For example, you might say to a busy doctor or nurse: “I can see you don’t have time to talk now. But I have a few important questions. When is a good time to discuss them?”’ Then make sure to get that discussion.” — The Washington Post How to negotiate the complicated corridors of today's hospital, June 17, 2016
“Friedman delves into what can be alien territory: the hospital, with its unfamiliar systems, medical terminology – and even smells. Hospital Warrior aims to demystify the hospital environment and culture, providing the tools and insight needed to be an effective advocate for a family member or friend.” — Washington Beacon Books spurred by experience with illness, September 2016
“Hospital Warrior isn't just about advocating; it's about saving lives. Bonnie Friedman delves deep into the hospital setting, and provides valuable insights, wisdom and tips to help readers get the best possible medical care for the ones they love. She knows what she's talking about and it shows. Read her book before someone you know has to go to the hospital.” — Heidi Godman, health journalist, host of Health Check with Heidi Godman on WSRQ-FM, Sarasota, FL
Medical and Professional
“Many people facing hospitalization may rightly feel as though they are going into battle without armor or weapon. Bonnie Friedman wrote Hospital Warrior to level the battlefield. Friedman draws upon her years of experience as an advocate and caregiver for her husband through his several life-threatening illnesses thereby bringing the wisdom and stamina of a seasoned warrior to her writing. Friedman's personal anecdotes and interviews add some narrative flair to what is otherwise a guidebook with instructions on how to advocate and receive good care in a hospital setting.” — National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys Hospital Warrior: How to Get Care for Your Loved One, September 2018
“Hospital Warrior offers a vivid guide for patient advocacy by families and close friends who can support the healing process through a persistent focus on urgent problems and consistency of care. Insights gained during more than 25 years of personal experience with her own family enable the author to offer constructive advice and practical tips for cooperative interactions.” — Philip Grimley, MD, Hospital physician, previously affiliated with the National Cancer Institute, the New York State Department of Health and the University of Maryland School of Medicine as Clinical Professor
“Hospital Warrior is more than a how-to book on how to advocate for a loved one. It is like having a smart, savvy friend with you every step of the way, helping you get the best hospital care for someone you love. Bonnie Friedman has learned the ropes, and she’ll help you learn them too.” — Mindy Utay, LCSW, JD, couples and family therapist, psychoanalyst, writer, lecturer, official blogger for the Huffington Post
Readers
“How I wish I had Hospital Warrior as a guide when my mother was hospitalized! Reading Bonnie Friedman’s book, I was struck by how little I had known prior about how hospitals work. More than once I was concerned that my mother was receiving sub-optimal care, but I was reluctant to speak up, a vestige of growing up at a time when people didn’t question doctors and a veil of mystery was expected. Hospital Warrior made me realize that it is not only essential to be informed but medical staff often welcome a family member who is an active partner in a patient’s care.
“Friedman’s style is very clear and engaging as she takes the reader through chapters on understanding the hospital and special units, working with doctors and nurses, knowing patients’ rights, and more. Because the book is based on her own experience as her husband’s advocate, her narrative feels like a friend showing you the ropes. Should a family member or close friend of mine require hospitalization in the future, Hospital Warrior will be my go-to source for navigating their care. I hope that many others will turn to this invaluable resource to be enlightened and empowered.” — Cindy Cox-Roman, MAG, gerontologist, Board Chair, HelpAge USA, December 13, 2019
“Packed with helpful information, Hospital Warrior was invaluable to me during my husband’s three-week stay in intensive care following heart surgery that led to a stroke. The book helped me decipher medical terms, understand treatments and identify appropriate questions to ask amidst the emotional turmoil I faced when my husband was seriously ill. The extensive reference section was also helpful as my husband passed through acute rehab to sub-acute during recovery.” — Susan Fleming, April 2016
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