Monday, January 31, 2011

Interview with Author Haleh Rabizadeh Resnick

Haleh Rabizadeh Resnick was born in Philadelphia. She graduated from Rutgers College and then later Rutgers Law School. After practicing law for several years, it was time to focus on her family. She has taught religious school part time for about twenty years and is the mother of five.

The book moves so fast, what an interesting story and so much to learn. I love the quick reference tips throughout the book.”

Hello Haleh. Your book is supposed to help parents partner more effectively with their doctors and not be in the dark. Please tell us about your new book.

I have two children, one with severe multiple allergies who actually was still on formula when he was two years old, and another who was diagnosed at birth with a severe hearing loss. As it turns out, my child with allergies eats all kinds of food now and is doing wonderfully and my other son’s hearing was misdiagnosed and he does not even need hearing aids. The book reads like a short novel and is engaging from the start. But since Little Patient Big Doctor is written with the aim of helping others navigate any medical crisis, there are a number of sections throughout the book dedicated to helpful tips of partnering with doctors and incorporating alternative strategies of care.

Yes, that happens. Many times our children can be misdiagnosed. What inspired you to write this book?

I wrote Little Patient Big Doctor because of the challenges I faced working with my medical doctors. I truly believe that were it not for my background as an attorney and teacher and the approach that I had toward their medical care, my children would not be where they are today. It breaks my heart when I speak to individuals who are dealing with a health crisis and think they could be handling the situation in such a way so as to have a better result.

I was impressed with what one reviewer said about your book: “We had our hands full with our son, who was born premature. We completely relate to Little Patient Big Doctor.” Tell us what you think about this review.

My eyes have filled with tears many times as I speak to people who have read Little Patient Big Doctor. The story resonates with parents and gives them support. I’ve been hearing many stories of medical success beyond doctor’s expectations since I wrote the book. 

Are there any Tips in the Book you would like to share with us?

The most important message is to have a vision of health that you want and be unrelenting. Question and advocate. This is the basic formula. There are specific tips on organization, searching for alternative remedies, and communicating with your doctor - such as making sure that your doctor has a list of your concerns even before an appointment. 

Thank you, Haleh. I appreciate this interview. If anyone has questions to ask Haleh at this time, please ask away. Okay, tell us something about the real you that we’ll never forget.

It’s interesting as a woman to have worked so hard for my graduate degree and then turn my back on it - at least for a while - to give hair cuts to my sons along with the bald spot that comes with it, to cook for a large family and trigger the fire alarm so often that the local firefighters know me by name, and to decorate my entire kitchen with my children’s art – so that it is literally wallpapered in every spot. Before kids? Right now I just can’t remember.

That was great! I could picture every detail as you listed them. And yes, it seems as if we can’t remember what it was like before kids. Now we know the real you! Haleh: a lawyer, mother, barber, cook, an art decorator, chauffeur, and an author who literally attracts firefighters! Whew! Now that’s quite a list.

11 comments:

apple blossom said...

this sounds like a really interesting book. thanks for the chance to win

ABreading4fun [at] gmail [dot] com

Unknown said...

Linda always has the unusual and helpful books up for giveaway. I'm wondering if Haleh has written this book with adults in mind also? What a wonderful title, I love it. I have 21 grandchildren and some are adult with small children. What a great tool for them to read and prepare their way with the doctor. A good book to have in the family library. Thanks, Haleh, for offering this book for a giveaway; and Linda for the chance to win this unique book. I hope I win.

Peace & Grace,
Barb Shelton
barbjan10 at tx dot rr dot com

Haleh said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Haleh said...

Dear Barb- Little Patient Big Doctor is actually for adults. Thanks for bringing that up.

Anonymous said...

Little Patient Big Doctor sounds like a book that all parents will find very helpful. I wish it had been around when my son was younger. This would probably make a nice gift to all new parents. Also wanted to say that I enjoyed the interview.

smdrazic(at)yahoo(dot)com

Anonymous said...

what a fabulous book...i'm interested :)

karenk
kmkuka at yahoo dot com

Unknown said...

MY Best friend would love this book, her and her 4 yr old son. Count me in! Thanks so much!!

chirth7@yahoo.com

Linda Kish said...

I agree, question and advocate are such important things for parents to do for their kids in the medical or educational areas.

lkish77123 at gmail dot com

Diana said...

I never would have thought of this topic for a book, but I must say that it is inspired! I have had so many disenchanting experiences with doctors I can't even count them. Instead of just complaining about my experiences, I can take a step forward and read the book and forge better communication (I hope) with the health "professionals". :)

Nancye said...

This sounds like a book I would enjoy. Thanks for the chance!

nancyecdavis AT bellsouth DOT net

Linda Weaver Clarke said...

Congratulations, Barb, for winning this wonderful and informative book. I know you'll enjoy it.