Ulla-Karin Lindquist (1953–2004)

With a highflying career, a renowned surgeon as a husband, and four gorgeous children, Ulla-Carin Lindquist is a woman who seemingly has everything. Then, on her fiftieth birthday, she is suddenly diagnosed with ALS, an aggressive and incurable form of motor neurone disease. Within a year, Ulla-Carin will die.
Rowing without Oars is the story of this final year. In writing striking for its honesty, simplicity and unexpected humour, Ulla-Carin describes how it feels to be losing control of her life, and to know that soon she will die and leave her beloved husband and children. The result is a heart-breaking book. It is also one of the most inspiring and uplifting memoirs of recent years.… (más)

The author was diagnosed with ALS on her fiftieth birthday. She started writing the experience in what turned out to be her last year. Ulla-Carin Lindquist was a working woman with four children and a career in Swedish television until 2003.

This is a reminder for all of us. Visit, but don't raise your voice, and understand that the effort she makes speaking is not because she is angry. Be careful when you pat a person's head or cheek--not condescending. Give closeness and warmth. Whisper your secrets in her ear.… (más)

I don't think a paragraph went by without tears or wanting to cry. But I knew it would be such. Every word Ulla-Carin writes here has such poignancy, depth and meaning.

Rowing without Oars gives a heart-rending insight into the emotional, practical, spiritual and physical impact Motor Neurone Disease can have upon a person and her family. The most striking aspect about Ulla-Carin is how she became stronger mentally as her physical condition deteriorated rapidly.

She faced the disease with such courage and strength and, whilst extremely sad (I think I welled up with tears throughout), it made me question life as it is now, to try and appreciate each day as if it was my last and to always let those I hold dear know how much I love them. Quite inspirational.

Blessings to Ulla-Carin, her family and all others whose lives have been impacted by MND/ALS in some way.… (más)