Thursday, January 17, 2008

LET BUSTER LEAD:  Discovering Love, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Self-Acceptance By Deborah Dozier Potter
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an often under diagnosed illness, affecting an estimated 6-7 per cent of the U.S. population.  This inspirational book is the story of how the author's beloved dog, Buster, helped her reclaim her life from PTSD.  

The author's life is filled with a whirl of social engagements, meetings, and all of the activities associated with a the life of someone married to an attorney.  Tragedy for Potter struck when she suffered a major trauma after a horse accident.  After the accident, Potter found herself unable to function among people and developed an aversion to being touched, even by the husband who loved her.  As her panic and reclusiveness increased, Potter found that Buster was her only comfort.  Potter was diagnosed with PTSD.  She turned to Buster for help as a service dog.  He helped her manage her PTSD symptoms and become an active member of society again, and he even helped save her marriage.

The book is well-written with an equal measure of laughter and tears.  I enjoyed reading the book.  My hope and the author's, is that through the story of Buster, more people will find out about PSTD and get help.   


listen to interview

No comments: