As a baby, Gabriel?s first words and affinity for sign language enthralled his adoring parents. When these words fell away, and his medical diagnoses multiplied, Maria Mutch committed herself entirely to her son?s care. Then, for about two years, Gabriel slept very little, drawing mother and son into a nocturnal existence of almost constant wakefulness. Here Maria shares the intensely personal challenges and revelations brought about by this period. As Gabriel?s sleeping hours dwindled, care took place within an isolated, often frightening world, in which Maria?s desire for connection and meaning expanded. Maria illuminates a search for love, understanding and comfort against the terrors of the unknown that will resonate with anyone who has lain awake in the dark, or longed to protect a loved one. 2014.
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