Incurable Optimist

At twenty-two, Jennifer Cramer-Miller was thrilled with her new job, charming boyfriend, and Seattle apartment. After she received a devastating autoimmune diagnosis, she soaked a hospital pillow with tears and grappled with words like “progressive” and “incurable.” Unwillingly, Cramer-Miller crossed over from wellness to chronic illness, from thriving to kidney failure. Her chances of survival hinged upon on the expertise of doctors, the generosity of strangers, and the benevolence of loved ones. But what kind of life would that be? Four kidney transplants later, she’s written Incurable Optimist: Living with Illness and Chronic Hope. Spanning two-plus decades, this family love story explores loss and acceptance, moving forward with uncertainty, and forging a joyful path. Cramer-Miller’s story shines a bright light on people helping people and will make you want to hug the humans you love. Because sometimes, the sorrows that pull us apart can also unite us in hope.