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THE BREAST CANCER SURVIVAL MANUAL
A step-by-step guide for the woman with newly diagnosed breast cancer. |
By JOHN LINK, M.D.
Second Edition 2000, published by Henry Holt & Co.
An easily understood, comprehensive book, which fulfills its intention to inform and empower women with newly diagnosed breast cancer to receive the best cancer treatment, that is right for them.
In practical, medical and holistic chapters Dr Link is strongly supportive, at times even insistent, that women take the opportunity to put their lives into better balance during their cancer ordeal.
A crisis manual, this book helps women understand their diagnosis and choices, and develop a plan to optimize their decisions.
Chapters cover second opinions, nature and biology of breast cancer and its different types (I found the section on how to read your pathology report particularly useful),
treatment methods, complementary care, and the connection between your emotional state and your cancer prognosis.
The genetics of breast cancer, testing and the future risk are also discussed.
For me, though, this book provides its greatest strength in the chapters on how to work the medical system to your best advantage. It explains the dos and donts of dealing with different medical personnel in a firm, confident manner, how to keep a log or diary, organising your medical records, and making your doctor/specialists visits more productive.
Acknowledging that no book can be considered truly up-to-date, it includes Internet addresses for current, accurate and unbiased information from bona fide, reputable organizations.
I found this book to be helpful, strong and positive even four years after my own diagnosis. Its central message is that today most women are cured of breast cancer. They undergo treatment, become survivors, and go on with their lives. But, says Dr Link, there is value added a richness, a deeper sensitivity, an appreciation of life and beauty, and for some, a motivation to transform.
Reviewed by Darryl Caudwell UPFRONT 42
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