Man to Man: Surviving Prostate Cancer

Rating:
Summary: Out of date and self-centered
Review: I don't think I would have wanted to read this book before my surgery. Even making allowances for Michael Korda's self-absorption and wealth, the plain facts of his case are scary. On the other hand, it was illuminating to see Patrick Walsh in other than uncritically worshipful light.

Readers should understand at least a couple of things: (1) This book is at least as much about Michael Korda as it is about prostate cancer. He is candid in his description of his own shortcomings, but there is still a strong look-at-me undercurrent. (2) The technology and practices have changed dramatically since his diagnosis ten years ago. My nerve-sparing surgery was triggered by a PSA of just 4.6 and a thorough biopsy. The incision was only 4 or 5 inches, with dissolvable stitches. Anesthesia was general, with minimal blood loss. I was home two days after the surgery. Recovery (I'm less than a week post-op) has been uncomfortable but quite doable, with a terrific wife but without private nurses or special privileges.

There are better, more thoughtful books out there, though this one was fun to read after my surgery. There are also many helpful Web sites.

The advantage men have today is that there are many alternatives in treatment. This can also pose a great burden; it can be hard to make the final decision amid all the conflicting advice. The books and Web sites help. Just don't use Korda's book as your only guide.

Rating:
Summary: To be read several weeks after your surgery.
Review: I had my surgery four weeks ago and found Mr. Korda's book fascinating to compare with my experience. It's an easy book to read and goes into the details and fears that other books mention in passing. Although Mr Korda's experience was a bit more dramatic than mine (I experienced relatively little pain and came home to an empty house after 5 days in the hospital)it was still interesting to me to compare how the surgery is done by the leading expert in the field at Johns Hopkins with how the surgery is performed at Baylor hospital in Dallas and to compare post surgery advice etc. Simply because he recounts an experience that was difficult for him is no reason to avoid reading this book. If nothing else, it gives the reader an idea of some of the questions to ask your surgeon. I was given a copy of the book by a stranger sitting next to me at my first cancer support group meeting and have enjoyed reading it.

Rating:
Summary: Tells more about Korda than about prostate cancer
Review: It's unfortunate this book is so one-sided, and so reflective of a person who obviously has lived a very sheltered life. While there is useful information in it, it is too colored by the author's personal fears and worries. I'm a survivor of this surgery, and doing quite well after one year. As a matter of fact, 3 days after surgery I was walking, slowly, 3.5 miles around the block, and I'm a certified couch potato. Also, my cancer was quite well along, but still within the prostate capsule, thank heavens. There are other books by much more qualified people available to the man diagnosed with prostate cancer. It is up to the individual to find them (it's not hard, try to get a few, hopefully written by doctors), read them and make informed decisions. The best of care is available in a lot of places in this country. No need to let a frightened bunny influence your personal decisions, or scare you into frantic searching for help. It's part of life, for heaven's sake. Again, this book is a disservice to men seeking unbiased, informed, rational information.

Rating:
Summary: A must reading for victims of prostate cancer.
Review: Michael Kordas book helped to understand what I am going through in post prostate surgery. I thought my problems were unique to me and was totally depressed until reading the book. The only negatives that I have regarding Mr. Korda's experience are the fact that he was privelged to have all the medical assistance following surgery. Many of us can't afford the extended nursing care that he received. I tried to email Mr. Korda to tell him how much his book helped me understand my own recovery, however Simon and Schuster would not furnish the address. I am still in recovery and I am extremely optimistic due to Mr. Korda's accounts following his surgery. Again, I have recommended this publication to all the members of my cancer support group.

Rating:
Summary: Man to Man Surviving Prostate Cancer
Review: My husband has just been told he has prostate cancer. While browsing the local library last week, we saw this book and checked it out. I suggest to every wife and husband to sit down and read this book together, there is so much information that will help both of you. As we have just returned from seeing Dr. Russo at Memorial Sloan-Kettering in New York City, I can testify that all is exactly as Michael Korda tells in his book. Dr. Russo and his team are very efficent and very dedicated to the causes of this disease in men and this book is exactly what my husband and I are experiencing at this time. We at least know what is expected in the future and we hope everybody, whether they have been told they have this disease or not will read this most informative book. A must read for everyone, in our opinion.

Rating:
Summary: Tells more about Korda than about prostate cancer
Review: Unless you are especially interested in Michael Korda, I strongly agree with those other reviewers in recommending that you DO NOT read this book before you decide on treatment or before you have surgery. The author of this book is a very sad case and far worse off than most opting for surgery. This book is worth reading AFTER surgery and you have begun to recoup a little. You'll at least feel good that you're not as bad off as this self-centered schmuck.
For good personal accounts of surviving prostate cancer read Bert Gottlieb's and William Martin's books. Both of these books are deeply reflective and filled with hope and useful information. Also Robert Young's Phoenix5 web site has very useful personal accounts.