In 2009, after being diagnosed with Erdheim-Chester Disease, a rare, life-ending illness, author Sandy Trunzer began a blog, with the simple intention of keeping friends updated on her health. Over time, and with feedback from an ever-increasing number of readers, Without a Manual evolved into a wry and unflinching account of what it’s like to see your death looming just ahead…and keep on living anyway.

Through battles with insurers who refused to finance medications for an illness so rare there was no real medical protocol, and while suffering ever-diminishing health, increasing pain, and a devastating personal betrayal, Sandy continued to maintain her blog. A deeply insightful account of approaching the end of life with grace, love and humour, it lights a beacon – illuminating the way ahead for the sick and able-bodied alike.