Surviving Prostate Cancer Together: In Sickness and in Health

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Summary: Review of Surviving Prostate Cancer
Review: Review by Dr. Tom Cook of "In Sickness and in Health" by Mary C. Gervais

This is a book which many cancer patients and their families should read. Its focus is prostate cancer but the concepts can be applied to most other cancers. It is especially a book for husbands and wives to read together, as a kind of spiritual journey to accompany the process of treatment and recovery.

Although the author's personal story as the spouse of a cancer patient begins with diagnosis, treatment actually comprises about half of the 23 chapters, and recovery comprises the final fourth. Those who have already entered the treatment phase may wish to skip ahead to the middle chapters. But no one should omit the concluding chapters because they provide the ongoing hope and faith to persevere.

Although not specifically religious in a sectarian sense, this is first and foremost a book of faith. Yet it also contains specific references to items not always included in books of faith, such as very candid discussions of the sexual side effects of treatment. The very thorough table of contents makes it very clear which chapters these are for those who may prefer to skip them. For those who do wish to read them, however, they may wish to turn to page 385 first for a better idea of what to expect.

In the last chapter there are many references to useful resources including about 20 books and websites and an even larger number of organizations, support groups, hotlines, phone numbers, addresses, etc. This is another part of the book that some readers may wish to turn to before reading the other 22 chapters.

All in all this is a very thorough, technical, intellectual, yet personal and spiritual account of the cancer treatment and recovery process, from a family oriented viewpoint. Even the family dogs sometimes enter the story, as supportive companions and exercise partners. Please put it at the top of your reading list if you are facing the ordeal of cancer.


















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Summary: Survivng Prostate Cancer Together: A "Must Read"!
Review: This book is written by a wife as her husband undergoes 2 years of therapy for prostate cancer including surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and alternative therapies. It gives the most complete first-hand account I have ever seen. It is very helpful, informative, and positive! It answered all of our questions about therapy options and about sexuality during and after treatment for prostate cancer. It is the most helpful book that my wife and I read! Six years after treatment this man is a survivor with an active sex life. The hope this gives us is amazing! It shows us how to fight cancer, to stop worrying, and to enjoy life.