I have to admit to being slightly extroverted, and talking to people is one of my favorite occupations. I love reading books, listening to music, watching movies, etc, but the best part is always talking to the people that create these items.

Recently I read and reviewed two books by Mannie Barling and his wife Ashley Brooks. My reviews can be read here and here. The subject of Arthritis, Crohn’s, Gout, and other associated painful maladies may not sound like the ideal books to take on vacation and read while laying on the beach sipping cold beverages with little paper umbrellas in them, however, for millions of people, these are diseases that they must face every day.

Mannie Barling now knows that he has suffered for many years, but it was not until 1997 following a bout with cancer that his doctors finally diagnosed his root problems. Their solution was ‘better living through drugs’. He certainly did not think that was such a fine idea, and his wife Ashley Brooks was in full agreement. Ashley is an R.N. And also a lady that for years had studied homeopathic solutions. What has followed has been a real journey of discovery for both of them.

Using a combination of scientific research and a large dose of common sense, they have once more regained their lives. Mannie Barling spent more than three years in a wheelchair, or wobbling around with the use of a cane. Today, it is a different story, he may not be quite ready for the Boston Marathon, but he is once more able to take his life back.

Both Mannie and Ashley are engaging people, they have a good sense of humor while still being very keyed in to the subject of their books.

You can listen to the entire interview here.

Simon Barrett