Held Together

In January of 2014, Joshua Tree's beloved village herbalist, Jenny Q. suddenly became seriously ill and rapidly descended into a coma with slender chance of survival. The shock of this news initiated an overwhelming outpouring of love, wit, service, practical magic and sharing of spiritual wisdom between those in her intimate desert community. Indeed it seemed that the entire group became one in their desperate effort and race against the clock to save her life. While the words of others in the community tell the story in this book, it is Jenny's own insightful writings that provide a fascinating window into a range of rare experiences. She gives us a unique glimpse into the mysterious worlds encountered while in a coma, the absolute alteration of losing one's legs, the subtle venom of PTSD, the nightmare of withdrawal from prescription opiates, and the maddening frustration of having to re-learn basic skills previously taken for granted such as the ability to walk. This is a story of love and tenacity which speaks to the power of a mother's connection to her child and of the fierce determination and dedication of a lover who, faced with unthinkable tragedy during the tender stages of a new and beautiful relationship, managed to create a sacred moment amidst the ravages of sepsis and the wounds of surgery to propose to her best friend. Though Held Together ruthlessly explores dark and often fear-filled places, it is ultimately a celebration of human will, the value of community and the power of love. This book will inspire and light a path for every person caught in a struggle against all odds.