Life on Loan: Stories of an Intensivist about People Who Received a Second Chance

Modern medicine helps save the most complex and hopeless patients. But what awaits them next? Is a life forever changed worth the suffering they have already endured and may continue to endure until the end of their days? What is it like to live fully conscious on a life support machine? Or with the understanding that your life completely depends on a small device in your chest? How can relatives and friends avoid despair if a loved one is gravely ill? Where to find patience, optimism, and strength for support? There are many questions.
Daniela Lamas, a pulmonologist and intensivist, in her book helps patients and their relatives navigate this difficult period and suggests exploring where the line is between saving lives and prolonging suffering. Within this cover are collected deep personal stories: about difficulties and mutual aid, about pain and hope.
The author narrates with great warmth, empathy, and medical precision about what each of us may face.