Love Letters to My Doctors

In an intimate account from a patient who's dealt with chronic illness for 15 years, Love Letters to My Doctors is a candid account about health issues and patient advocacy.

Author Rachel Charlton DesRosier, terming herself as a "chronic pain zebra," shares a vulnerable and true account of her experiences with physicians over the last 15 years of trying to find relief for her chronic pain.

The narrative takes epistolary form, as Rachel's diagnosis, backstory, and interactions with physicians and healthcare professionals comes in the vehicle of "love letters" she wrote. While not all of them speak as kindly as a love letter might, Rachel's termed them as such because she actually sent every single one out on Valentine's Day 2024.

Love Letters to My Doctors is a powerful and poignant look at patient care and advocacy from the patient's view. Rachel, who's dealt with mental illnesses, chronic pain, and the sometimes struggle of advocating for yourself in a tough medical situation.

Some of the physicians included get a kind thank-you letter from Rachel while others get a firm talking to and challenge to do better. In each letter, Rachel shares how their interactions made her feel about herself and her pain.

For anyone who deals with (or loves someone who has) chronic pain, chronic illness, an invisible illness, anorexia, an eating disorder, or a mental illness, Love Letters to My Doctors is a relatable book and a quick read they'll enjoy. Not only will they see themselves in it; the book also aims to encourage community building between chronic pain sufferers.