Amal Awads life changed when her father was diagnosed with kidney failure. It was a shock to see the impact it had on him, both physically and mentally, and the way the side effects trickled on to those around him. Work had always made him feel whole, and retirement was a challenge. On a mission to help her father and support her mother, Amal began spending every Friday with her parents. She saw the gaps in discussion around ageing and sickness. Amals personal experiences prompted her to explore how Australians are ageing, how sickness affects the afflicted and those around them, and what solutions exist when hope seems lost. So many people are similarly navigating a new reality weeks dotted with doctor appointments; conversations that deplete and reveal at the same time; reshaped family relationships. Amal speaks with doctors, nurses, an aged care psychologist, specialists, politicians, ageing people living alone and others in a retirement village, to gain insights and to consider solutions. At a time when ageism and health is high on the publics radar, what were not always talking about is how to deal with the anxiety, depression and overall challenges that come with someone you love facing their mortality and a decline in health. Fridays with My Folks shares heartfelt, honest stories that will help others who are in similar positions. People who are having to reorient themselves when the boat has taken a battering and they have to take a new direction. This book stems from personal experiences, but it expands to a much wider, more universal discussion about life, suffering, coping and hope.
**Fridays With My Folks: Navigating Ageing, Illness, and the Shifting Sands of Family** A deeply personal and profoundly insightful exploration of ageing, illness, and the complex tapestry of family relationships, Amal Awad's *Fridays With My Folks* offers solace, guidance, and a renewed sense of hope for those navigating similar challenges. This isn't just a book about ageing parents; it's a book about life, loss, and the enduring power of human connection in the face of adversity. Inspired by Awad's own experiences caring for her father after his kidney failure diagnosis, *Fridays With My Folks* fearlessly delves into the often-unspoken realities of ageing and illness. Awad beautifully articulates the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies these experiences - the initial shock, the grief over lost abilities, the strain on family dynamics, and the overwhelming sense of responsibility. The book unflinchingly examines the practical difficulties, from navigating a maze of medical appointments to dealing with the financial and emotional burdens of caregiving. But this book is far more than a personal memoir. Recognizing that her experiences resonated with countless others, Awad embarks on a journey to understand the broader landscape of ageing in Australia. She skillfully weaves her own narrative with the stories and insights of doctors, nurses, aged care specialists, politicians, and, most importantly, the ageing individuals themselves. From those living independently to residents of retirement villages, their voices offer a rich and diverse perspective on what it means to age in contemporary society. *Fridays With My Folks* shines a light on the often-overlooked emotional and psychological impact of ageing and illness. Awad tackles difficult topics such as ageism, anxiety, depression, and the fear of mortality with sensitivity and compassion. She encourages readers to confront these challenges head-on and offers practical strategies for coping with the emotional toll of caregiving. What truly sets this book apart is its focus on solutions. Awad doesn't just highlight the problems; she actively seeks out strategies for improving the quality of life for both the ageing individual and their caregivers. She explores innovative approaches to aged care, highlights the importance of community support, and empowers readers to advocate for better resources and policies. The book provides a lifeline for those feeling lost and overwhelmed, offering practical advice and a roadmap for navigating the complexities of caregiving. Moreover, *Fridays With My Folks* champions the importance of open and honest communication within families. It encourages readers to have difficult conversations about end-of-life wishes, financial planning, and caregiving responsibilities. Awad shows how these conversations, while challenging, can ultimately strengthen family bonds and provide a sense of peace during difficult times. Published by Vintage Australia, this paperback edition (ISBN: 9780143789796) is a must-read for anyone who has experienced or will experience the challenges of ageing and illness, whether as a caregiver, a family member, or an individual facing their own mortality. It is an essential guide for navigating the complexities of these experiences and finding hope and connection along the way. Readers have described the book as "heartfelt," "honest," and "incredibly helpful," praising Awad's ability to blend personal anecdotes with expert advice. *Fridays With My Folks* is not just a book; it's a companion, a resource, and a source of inspiration for anyone navigating the journey of ageing and illness. A powerful addition to the self-help, health, parenting, and relationships sections, especially for those dealing with ageing parents, this book fosters a vital and often overlooked dialogue.
