There are a couple of new books available on Amazon about dealing with, and making it through, fluoroquinolone toxicity. Both of the following books are written by “floxed” women, and both generously share a message of hope, perseverance, and strength through the difficult and painful journey of fluoroquinolone toxicity.

Praying Through Pliés: Living With Lupus and Surviving An Antibiotic Called Levaquin

Praying Through Pliés: Living With Lupus and Surviving An Antibiotic Called Levaquin by Rhonda “Jean” Bolton is described as follows:

“A nurse’s true and inspiring journey of living with lupus and later surviving a devastating reaction to the fluoroquinolone antibiotic, Levaquin, by weaving her faith and her love for ballet into a powerful story of transformation. Beautifully and poignantly written, the author addresses her personal loss, grief, sadness, and anger, but the prevailing message is one of hope, love, and gratitude. Included are sections on exercise, sleep, stress management, and nutrition with simple and realistic suggestions for change. This book has the potential to bring healing, hope, and joy to those dealing with chronic illness, loss, or challenges of any kind, but it is also is for anyone who desires to make positive changes in his or her life. Also written for those who suffer from adverse reactions to fluoroquinolone antibiotics and who are unheard or even discounted, this story provides support and encouragement, while adding one more voice of credibility to their pain and disabilities.”

In an email correspondence, Jean also noted that, “Early readers have said it is a powerful and inspiring story of healing and transformation. I combine faith and my love for ballet to offer others what I have learned about lifestyle changes in the areas of stress management, nutrition, sleep, stress management, and exercise, the importance of positive thinking, and the power of gratitude. My hope is that this book will bring hope and healing to others.”

Thank you so much for writing about your journey through fluoroquinolone toxicity (on top of autoimmune diseases) and for sharing it with the “floxies” of the world, Jean!

The Magnificent Story Of A Lame Author

The second highlighted new book about a woman’s journey through fluoroquinolone toxicity is The Magnificent Story Of A Lame Author by Amy Moser.

The author, Amy Moser, is also the author of the viral blog post, “This Antibiotic will Ruin You.” “This Antibiotic will Ruin You” was viewed and read MILLIONS of times, and greatly increased awareness of the dangers of fluoroquinolone antibiotics.

Amy followed up”This Antibiotic will Ruin You” withThe Magnificent Story Of A Lame Author. The Amazon description of the book states:

“When I was growing up, I pictured myself as a nurse, an olympian, an astronaut…but never handicapped. I just didn’t see that coming. I was as happy and enthusiastic to greet this new challenge, as I would be a swarm of bees. It can be very hard to accept great trial with open arms.
I might be lame, but my story isn’t. Nearly seven years ago at the age of 28, my body suddenly disintegrated underneath me. My doctors had no idea why my previously healthy body was imploding. I was a spunky young wife and mother stunned by her new circumstances. Discovering the cause offered no cure. What now? Where do I go from here?
When I’m overwhelmed by this burden, and I’m too heavy to forge ahead, the hand of God lifts me and leads me on. My journey is incredibly hard, but immeasurably blessed by God. Impossible situations give God opportunity to shine and us an opportunity to trust. Miracles wouldn’t be miracles if they were possible. You know the phrase, “When life gives you lemons…make lemonade.” I’ll give you a new one. When life throws you dung, use it as fertilizer to grow your mustard seed of faith. It may move a mountain or grant you the strength to traverse over it.
This story is about building an unconditional faith in God even during the most grueling moments of my life. I’m finding beauty and hope along a rugged path I never would have chosen for myself.”

An Amazon review of the book, from Roland, stated:

“Amy Moser has endured more pain and suffering than anyone should ever have and all because of one medication for a mild infection. Her heart for God and her iron clad faith in His goodness and mercy have kept her going for her devoted husband and her children. I have never read a stronger testimony about the power of prayer and an unwavering faith. This is a very important book because of the warning about Cipro and the other drugs in its category and how catastrophic the side effects can be. But more importantly, seeing her faith as she describes dealing with the truly awful things happening to her formerly healthy body is a gift to us all. Read this book. Learn more about the side effects of these dangerous drugs. They are horrifying. Then say a prayer for Amy Moser and all the others suffering because of these drugs.”

Both books are generously and thoughtfully written. They describe journeys of hope and faith, and they are gifts to those who read them. I hope that they help you through your journey through fluoroquinolone toxicity as well!