Book excerpt: Kathryn was a vibrant and active 44 year old stay at home mother of two when she decided to venture back into the workplace. Though she had been out of the work force for 18 years, Kathryn had always been very active in community events PTA, school board and the local 4-H club and was always the first to volunteer to help out friends or family. Little did she realize that this opportunity for professional growth and financial independence would force her through a never ending series of battles with the medial and legal community make her a prisoner in her own home, and mire her in severe depression. After workplace exposure to mold caused sever immune system dysfunction, Kathryn's world turned upside down and nothing would ever be the same. She was forced to give up her most treasured possessions and was no longer able to be the active person she always has been. Relationships were tested and many did not survive. Defeat always seemed close at hand as illness thrust her into a battle not only for independence, but for her life. Kathryn's story of self doubt, loss of identity, and the pain of skepticism from the medical and legal profession is a wrenching journey of endurance, hope, and hard won triumph. Her experience with mold exposure gives her a unique perspective on the physical and emotional effects of mold exposure. Read her story and learn how she was able to overcome these many obstacles to become an advocate for her own health.