Apples and Avalanches

Author Heather Scherf has personal experience caregiving for a loved one with a severe mental illness. It inspired her to share her journey through both personal and professional lenses in effort to provide some tools, support, and hope for those in similar circumstances. Apples and Avalanches: An Exploration of Caring for the Severely Mentally Ill provides the perspective of a therapist and daughter on how we go through life with mental health issues. It is a story of a woman who suffered from schizophrenia and cancer for several years and of her daughter s perception of things from a caregiver s position. Divided into three parts, it presents readers with a relatable story with guidance for the caregiving journey, tools for healing our mental health, and considerations for future mental health treatment. Intended for families and caregivers for those with mental health issues, this personal narrative and guide teaches you to love yourself and your loved one through the caregiving experience and how to heal through any stage of that process.