Gassed in the Great War and labelled a mute after a pioneering laryngectomy operation, John Iliffe Poole was given just six months to live but went on to become the longest-surviving laryngectomee in the world and an avid crusader of people's rights.
Poole was an ordinary man who overcame all the odds. No different to millions of other ordinary people who were called upon to protect their country and were somehow proud to face death in the fight for freedom. No different to millions of ordinary people who found themselves struck down by a disabling illness and who faced penury because of it.
Poole’s moving and remarkable story has been lovingly pieced together by his grand-daughter Lynda Franklin from boxes of yellowed and tatty papers and photos stored in the attic for over 30 years. The book is filled with pathos, humour, contemporary information and lots of colour photographs.
Disclaimer: Please see your own dentist/doctor for a proper diagnosis as my words should not, in any circumstances, be taken as dental/medical advice.
"If you see what is small as it sees itself, and accept what is weak for what strength it has, and use what is dim for the light it gives, then all will go well. This is called Acting Naturally." Lao-Tsu, Tao Teh King
Posts: 3748 | Location: St Luke's Hospital, Bradford and Pinderfields Hospital, Wakefield | Registered: 14 December 2002
