When doctors diagnose you or someone you know with breast cancer, it's normal to feel overwhelmed and have a lot of questions. "What do I do now?", "How will I cope?", "How difficult will the treatment be?", and so on, may cross your mind a thousand times. At a time like this, reading a good book that includes the experiences of others who have gone through the same journey and the advice of doctors can give you great strength, knowledge, and peace of mind. Today, we're talking about some very valuable books for those battling this type of cancer and their families.
Books that help you understand your experience
When I read books that talk about the true nature of living with cancer, the sadness, joy, and fear that comes with it, I feel a great sense of relief that I'm not the only one feeling these things.
"Pink Ribbon Blues" by Gayle Sulik
This book is about Nancy Stodahl, who was diagnosed with stage IIB breast cancer in 2010. She says the book was an eye-opener for her. The book delves deeply into the culture behind the "pink ribbon" we see everywhere, and how it sometimes obscures the real health issues facing women.
"Cancer Was Not A Gift & It Didn't Make Me A Better Person" by Nancy Stordahl
This is also a book by Nancy Stodahl. Her mother also had metastatic breast cancer . So, she has written very honestly about her experiences as a caregiver for her mother and as a cancer patient herself. She clearly states that cancer is not a heroic story, it is a very harsh, realistic experience. It also contains things you need to know before undergoing chemotherapy treatments , and how to overcome your fear of it.
"The Middle Place" by Kelly Corrigan
When Kelly is diagnosed with breast cancer, her father also has cancer and she has to take care of him. She writes in this book with great sensitivity and sometimes humor about that "in-between" of caring for her father as a child and battling her own illness as a mother.
Remember, your feelings are valid during your journey with cancer. Fear, sadness, anger, and hope are all part of this journey.
Be a strength to your family and friends.
When you are told you have cancer, it is a big shock for the loved ones around you. They want to help you, but they may not know how. These books will be a great help to them.
"My Parent Has Cancer and It Really Sucks" by Maya and Marc Silver
Barbara Jacoby, a two-time breast cancer survivor, recommends this book. She says, "While undergoing treatment, taking care of household chores, and reading a book can be overwhelming for a patient. But we also need to think about our families." The book was written by Maya and her father. Maya was 15 when her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. So, it offers practical advice on how to look at this experience from a young child's perspective, and how to help children through such times.
"Dodging Dandelions" by Ron Richards
This is a very special book. Because it is written by the husband of a wife who lost her to cancer. It is a sensitive account of the husband's perspective on his wife's cancer journey, the pain, hope, and loss he experienced. This book will be a great help to your partner in understanding you.
"Dear Friend: Letters of Encouragement, Humor, and Love for Women with Breast Cancer" by Gina Mulligan
This book is amazing. It's a collection of letters written by women who have had breast cancer , and by other women who have been newly diagnosed. There's love, courage, and even humor in the letters. It's so empowering to hear, "You're not alone, we've been through this too."
For practical advice and inspiration
Sometimes we need not only experience, but practical advice to make this journey easier.
"The Cancer-Fighting Kitchen" by Rebecca Katz
Anna Krolman, who was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 27, is the author of this book. It is common to experience side effects such as loss of appetite, nausea, fatigue, and weight loss during treatment. This book contains over 100 delicious recipes that are easy to make and will help reduce these side effects, increase your appetite, and help you feel fuller longer.
"In-Between Days: A Memoir About Living with Cancer" by Teva Harrison
This book is different from the others because it is in the form of a graphic novel. It is very easy to read. Tewa, who was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in her thirties, describes her experience through drawings and short notes. It is a very emotional and powerful presentation.
| Book Title | Author | Best For Whom? |
|---|---|---|
| Pink Ribbon Blues | Gayle Sulik | For those who want to know the reality of cancer culture. |
| My Parent Has Cancer and It Really Sucks | Maya & Marc Silver | For young children and parents in the families of cancer patients. |
| The Cancer-Fighting Kitchen | Rebecca Katz | For patients and their caregivers who want to learn about nutritious foods during treatment. |
| Cancer Was Not A Gift... | Nancy Stordahl | For those who want to honestly understand the harsh reality of cancer. |
These books will make you feel like you're holding someone else's hand as you walk this difficult journey. But remember, after reading these books, the best person to talk to about any medical problem you have, any concerns you have about treatment, any fears you have, is your doctor . Never be afraid to talk to him about everything openly.
Take-Home Message
- When you are diagnosed with breast cancer, know that you are not alone. There are thousands of other women around the world who have gone through this journey and are still going through it.
- Reading other people's experiences and memoirs can give you great mental strength and practical knowledge.
- This experience is difficult for your family, children, and partner. Don't forget that there are books that can help them understand this situation too.
- Paying attention to practical things like nutrition during treatment is very important to manage side effects.
- Although reading these books can be a great relief, always consult your doctor before making decisions about your medical problems and treatment.
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