Fever of Unknown Origin

“Fever of Unknown Origin tells the moving story of one woman’s battle with a debilitating illness. Ford leads us through the bewildering ups and downs of this struggle, culminating in a recovery as richly surprising and nuanced as the illness itself, as well as a deeper understanding of what it means to be fully alive and present in this world. An inspiring read.”


—Susannah Waters, author of Cold Comfort





“Ford deftly invites readers to witness the exquisite detail of her mind and heart as she nearly loses everything, then finds her way back to physical and emotional health. It’s a journey you won’t want to miss.”


—Nita Sweeney, author of Depression Hates a Moving Target





“Fever of Unknown Origin is both epic and vesper, a reminder, perhaps, that haunts and angels battle above our sickbeds, vying for the right to whisper into our ears either ‘sleep’ or ‘wake!’ Judith Ford spares no emotional detail in her account of how, as patient and self-counselor, she refused to yield the battlefield to forces that presumed they had the final say.”


—Brian Leung, author of Lost Men





“Fever of Unknown Origin is an accurate and personal narrative about suffering a physical condition that cannot be immediately diagnosed. The unknown nature of this situation is compelling and beautifully described. Judith Ford is a spectacular writer, capturing details and explosive emotion with talent and grace. This book is a must-read.”


—Karen Winston, author of Always Wear Lipstick





“Fever of Unknown Origin tells the compelling story of Judith Ford’s bewildering illness and her equally surprising recovery. Ford shows us what it’s like to lose everything—health, career, family, the prospect of the future—and then find the way back to life, health, and happiness, only to embark on parallel journeys with both parents. This book is vivid and engaging, exploring the complexities of family, love, and illness.”


—Mary Allen, author of The Rooms of Heaven