While working in the realm of public safety in a large school system, author McCray began to notice swelling in her hands and shoulders that gradually grew from random pain to frequent and persistent burning and numbness and other symptoms that prevented her from performing even simple chores such as turning a doorknob. Sleeplessness also resulted, and no common medications seemed to quell the pain. Some temporary solutions included splints that allowed her to complete her master's degree. But the problem didn't go away even after surgery, though prayer gave relief. These experiences and others led her to conclude that she should spare children and grandchildren from developing mysterious ailments without knowing their family's medical background. For this reason, she offers this highly practical volume that can help readers discover their susceptibilities and prepare for them. Much of her book consists of a copious collection of "fill-in" documents for readers' use, including the kinds of questions that need to be answered as one plumbs the familial medical background.

Because she recalls and describes intensive personal health scenarios, McCray's work will doubtless resonate with readers who have endured the same or similar ailments. But as importantly, she reaches out to a wide audience of readers who may never have considered the importance of gathering and studying their generational background. She has constructed practical forms for children, siblings, maternal and paternal family, and connections to a spouse and their disease history. The real efficacy of her forms can be envisioned both in the case of chronic conditions and communicable diseases. McCray's viewpoint that this is information that must be collected and shared can encourage readers to use the forms presented and pass her book on to others for similar, vital information and assistance.

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