In the paper, Charmaz underscores the enormous sufferings that people with chronic illnesses endure which sometimes go unnoticed. She attributes this to a myriad of factors, such as, the narrow lens through which the medical field views and conceptualizes suffering. One of the key issues that the paper raises is the loss of self. According to Charmaz, this sprouts from a sudden change of personal capacities and develop into a diminished self concept as illness takes a toll on social and economic functions. Charmaz espouses a shift from generic to customized framework of managing people with chronic illnesses. The video also brings to bear the reactions that people display when confronted with the life changing news of being diagnosed with a chronic illness. This ranges from despair to self anger, anger at others or in general. This somewhat identical reaction illustrates the human element in all beings. The paper also recognizes the role of social support for people with chronic illness. This not only aid individuals to fill their new deficiencies but also provides a psychological support to confront them. Sadly, in a world where individualism, self reliance and heroism are hugely promoted, individuals with chronic illnesses will continually encounter increasing challenges. Perhaps, the ability to confront these challenges will resonate from an inward spirit to face the changing scenes of life.
