Walking on Pins and Needles: A Memoir of Chronic Resilience in the Face of Multiple Sclerosis

I couldn't put this book down because it was so remarkable and inspiring. My first reaction after turning the last page was a desire to send a copy to everyone I know because everyone can benefit from it. WALKING ON PINS AND NEEDLES will be part of my collection of books that have inspired, edified, enlightened and offered me another way of looking at myself, the world, and life itself. Arlene's story serves as a portal to hope and healing, a new lens through which you can see the body's innate ability to heal itself. All the wisdom she acquired on her challenging journey to learn to walk again is offered as a gift for all readers. Even if you are not struggling with an enormous health challenge, but just looking for an oasis from the stress, the clamor of your mind, and the insanity of the world, you will discover how Tai Chi can help. I was fortunate to study with Arlene long ago and can attest to Tai Chi's wonderful healing benefits and to Arlene's calm and compassionate approach. If a journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step, reading this astonishing book should be that step.

I am always happy when I find a book that keeps me engaged and holds my attention until I I finish it. It is as they say a “real page turner”.It is about the author’s diagnosis at 22 of multiple sclerosis and her lifelong journey to seek help and reclaim her health. Her struggle torestore her health is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It’s real, inspirational and encourages the reader to persevere throughthe challenges of lifelong adversity. The healing she achieved through alternative methods is a remarkable story. I highly recommend this book for anyone who has had to deal with long term debilitating circumstances. It is a story of faith, grace and spirit . In a word— uplifting.

I found Arlene Faulk's book to be re-energizing for my own personal journey in life. I sat down to read it one morning, and finished that same day! For a memoir, it is very compelling - I kept wanting to turn the page to find out what happened next! Her writing style is descriptive, emotional, and very personal.Arlene Faulk is a remarkable woman who has had a very interesting and full life. It inspires me to continue to rise above my personal situation with hard work and focus. I've given this book to several friends. She has been asked to speak at my book club's next meeting (by Zoom).

An inspiring, hopeful story about perseverance and resilience. But two other timely reminders stood out for me: the possibility of profound growth when we risk vulnerability, and the gift we receive when we hear someone’s “back story.” The author took us on a journey through her significant challenges and glimmers of welcome surprise. And although progress was not linear, it was attainable through faith, persistence, and a community of loving personal and professional support. I appreciated the author’s candor and was relieved to learn of her eventual success in addressing her MS through bodywork and Tai Chi.

Arlene Faulk has written an extraordinarily readable book. Her gift is to capture the reader with a story that is both unique to her experience and relevant to anyone who has faced challenges, physical and otherwise. That is pretty much all of us. Arlene's MS put her in an extreme work/life balance which she faced realistically and courageously and creatively. That's the lesson to be gleaned in this wonderful memoir, narrated in the language and style of a friend in conversation sharing a journey that celebrates achievement despite the roadblocks of illness. What an inspiration.

Arlene has shared a beautifully written portrayal of her journey - from the early indications that her physical health was at risk, to the resiliency she showed as she tackled the physical and emotional struggles she met at each step of her journey. While very personal and heart-felt, her story is one that can resonate with anyone who has faced personal trauma. Through her memoir, Arlene not only shares her journey, but she creates a framework for the reader to reflect and explore their own personal journey as well. Thank you Arlene, for this beautiful gift!

Everyone will enjoy this interesting and well-written memoir, but anyone who has struggled with chronic illness will be particularly captivated by this very personal account of the author’s path. She went from being a high-level executive for a major airline while dealing with the difficult challenges of MS to finally healing with Traditional Chinese Medicine and becoming a Tai Chi instructor. Highly recommend this inspiring read!

I received this book through a Goodreads Giveaway. Its the authors story of a life on one oath abruptly forced onto another path by illness. The details of the authors journey are important for everyone who has ever faced a life changing diagnosis. Helpful and encouraging.