The Thief and the Gift: Finding Understanding and Peace Amid a Degenerative Illness

How do we learn to live when the end of our time is in sight?

This is the question at the heart of The Thief and the Gift, which documents journey of a man living with a degenerative illness. Inspiring, uplifting, and deeply empathetic, The Thief and the Gift is a story we know well, but don't often tell. Following an unnamed protagonist throughout his final years of life as a degenerative illness slowly robs him of the way of living he once knew, The Thief and the Gift intimately narrates what one really experiences when their time is coming to an end. Introducing profound questions about life's efficacy, the nature of suffering, and what it means to have a life well-lived, The Thief and the Gift suggests that there is still plenty of work to do on oneself even at the end.

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"Dr. Deborah Wagner presents a moving tribute to a man as he and the family navigate the ravages and impact of disease through time. So many themes are subtly presented and explored in the book and so many beautiful metaphors are offered to help the reader in understanding the experience of his illness in a poignant and helpful way. The journey of psychological healing is described perfectly, as Dr. Wagner describes the connections with past and present events, helping the protagonist achieve inner cohesion and growth. The descriptions are wonderful in assisting people to understand the benefits of psychotherapy when encountering such debilitating, long term diseases." - Tamara Sofair-Fisch, psychologist

"This book delves into the main character with such perception of his honesty, his gusto and his love for his family. You will fall in love with the main character and with the author. She has captured the depth of his soul and the true nature of a hero!" - Michele S.

"A breathtaking story that takes the reader on a journey of unimaginable challenges, trapped but free. Feeling the human spirit in its highest form take shape, as a daughter's unwavering support and love helps her father forge a path forward during unimaginable challenges and limitations to an examined life of meaning and wisdom. This is a journey of growth and self-awareness between both father and daughter." - Lori W.

Dr. Wagner is a consummate psychologist whose approachable manner and developmental perspective provide holistic care for her patients. She has particular expertise in terms of the interaction between physical conditions and mental health. In addition to her supportive style with patients, Dr. Wagner is a psychologist's psychologist with her colleagues. - Dr.Ralph Dell'Aquila, ED.D., psychologist

I worked with Dr. Wagner in her private practice at the beginning of my career. Working under Dr. Wagner was one of the best things I did as a budding therapist. Dr. Wagner is calm, direct, knowledgeable and is able to guide all her patients to better themselves. She engages every patient with empathy, understanding, utilizing her extensive background and education. - Katie Gately, LPC, BCBA