Life Without Lisa: A Widowed Father's Compelling Journey Through the Rough Seas of Life

By Richard Ballo

Life Without Lisa is a "must read" for anyone who has lost someone dear through death. Author Rich Ballo bares his soul in this brutally honest account of being cast adrift in an ocean of emptiness, anger, and guilt. Lisa was the love of his life, and inventor and successful entrepreneur, a beacon of light to all. During her battle with cancer, everyone was in denial about the seriousness of her disease. When Lisa died, Rich was 39 and their young sons were only five and six. Through Rich's journaling, we are privy to his innermost thought and feelings. We sob when he sobs. We cheer him on when he begins to sense a glimmer of hope. But most of all, we see ourselves in his journey, for love and loss ultimately unite all of humanity.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0967553245
• ISBN13: 9780967553245
• Release Date: December 2004
• Publisher: Quality of Life Publishing Co
• Length: 206 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 6.4" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Extraordinary, compelling, healing and heartfelt

This is one of the most valuable books I've ever read on the subject of loss. I am astonished by Richard Ballo's willingness to be so open and vulnerable, to unflinchingly sharing his feelings and his difficult journey. Few are faced with losing a beloved spouse at an early age, let alone to be left with two little ones to raise alone. Richard had to deal with his monumental loss AND be there for his boys. He compellingly demonstrates that grief is a devastating experience and despite the fact that you think you will never smile again, life can once again be meaningful, fulfilling and even fun. It's a different life, but still a good one. He holds out hope and provides inspiration for all of us. Great, great book of extreme value!

Story of a real-life hero

Ballo takes the reader through an intimate journey of his love for his wife Lisa and his pain and adjustment in coping with her death. Sincerely and simplistically written, this book resonates with widow/ers who care for small children and help them deal with their grief, all the while trying to cope with the loss of a spouse. The final section of this book is a great addendum written by counselors to those who are assisting widow/ers. In addition to being validating and encouraging for widow/ers, this book would be a good read for family members or counselors trying to reach out to widow/ers.