Going the Distance: Finding and Keeping Life-Long Love

Half of this short book consists of Griffin's compelling account of her first year or so with multiple sclerosis. Exercising candid and self-critical hindsight, she describes the physical and emotional trauma she suffered--and the peevishness she inflicted on those around her. The second half of the book recommends strategies for maintaining hope, friendships, a love life and, in general, good spirits, as well as outlining current M.S. research. Griffin's has been no ``movie of the week'' victory over adversity, but a long battle to come to terms with an untreatable, progressive debility. Though somewhat unpolished and disjointed, her writing is personable and affecting. And the conversational style is appropriate: Griffin hopes, quite justifiably, that others can relate to and learn from her experience. Eye-opening for any reader, the book will be particularly meaningful to people with M.S. and their friends and relatives. (Oct.)