Share this review
When The Light Goes Out
By Dr Lisa Myers
Published by Joanne Fedler Media
ISBN 9781925842388
When Sydney psychiatrist, Dr Lisa Myers suffered profound grief her whole world was turned upside down.
The depth of grief was exacerbated when this happened thousands of kilometres away to her family in the country of her birth, South Africa, and through what she believes was a terrible crime.
An early morning phone call in Sydney was a life changing moment. In a fairly detailed description, Lisa explains what happened when she received that phone call in Sydney that her father in South Africa appeared to be missing.
One can only empathise, as we read of her fears and concerns, and how she swung into action urgently calling on others to help. When the Light Goes Out is a no-holds barred, detailed and at times graphically described, by her own and her family's grief.
It details the effects on daily life which was in a tail spin and the ability to communicate with close family and friends while working with patients who needed her knowledge and help. It also deals with the aspects of other people's opinions, at times unnecessarily hurtful and the rush to defend and counteract those thoughts while retaining sacred memories.
Determined to achieve in life and to exceed beyond her parent's expectations and their own financial misgivings she diligently studied with passion at school and university achieving accolades and recognition for her tireless endeavours. It is quite surprising to read the frankness in which her parents disappointments are described, but this was also the impetus for her achievements.
Although not a lengthy book, it is one that goes into great depth of grief, interwoven with helping others of all ages. Lisa refers to several patients (their names have been changed to protect their identity) and their circumstances which she not only guides and helps them, but has a newer understanding and compassion.
There is considerable brevity in bearing so much of one's personal life in a book for all to read in which Lisa encourages those affected to seek further help.
Travelling between two countries and a rural city in South Africa, speaking and negotiating with local law enforcement, coroners, forensic scientists, magistrates, a remaining parent with her own emotional difficulties, divorce, teenagers at home and emigration, this memoir seems to have most bases for grief and trauma covered,
It appears that this deep seated and multi-layered grief has given a new and widened aspect for Dr Lisa Myers to help others who have gone through traumatic situations and grief.
This is a courageous memoir, a worthwhile read for anyone who is affected by trauma and grief.
This is independent review, I am not paid by the publishers, so.If you Liked this review, Buy me a coffee
