Some New Reading Material
I've recently been browsing through some of the new additions to our lending library at the breast center. I thought I'd share my views on two of the newer books we offer to our patients.
UPLIFT: Secrets from the Sisterhood of Breast Cancer Survivors Barbara Delinsky Washington Square Press
I'm a big fan of Ms. Delinsky's womens' fiction. It's honest, engaging and grabs you and doesn't let go until the very last page. You grow to know and love her characters. When I received an advance copy of Uplift, I was intrigued. This is an author whom I actively read. What did she know about breast cancer? It turns out that her mom died of breast cancer, long before it was proper to speak about it in public.
From the first page of the forward, I was hooked. This is a great book for the newly diagnosed woman. It is loaded with practical advice from women who have "been there, done that". One of the most common themes I hear from new patients when they want to meet a breast cancer survivor is that while they trust their doctor's medical opinion, they want to talk to a woman who has actually been through the process.
The chapters are arranged logically and allow you to read only as much as you want. Sections on diagnosis, the loss of a breast, radiation, chemotherapy, family, and work give you the information that matters to you at that time in your journey through cancer. This is not a medical book; there are many great resources for the technical aspects of dealing with breast cancer. This book IS uplifting. It gives you hope. It inspires you. It lets you know how real women deal with real situations relating to their cancer.
Here are a few excerpts to whet your appetite:
"I never hid my diagnosis. I cannot stress enough the importance of being open. It is amazing how many people will be there for you. The support of others is one of the greatest healers around." I, too, never hid my diagnosis. By the time the rumor mill is done, you'd be amazed at the misinformation.
"I bought some large button-front men's shirts to wear after my surgery. They were comfortable and easy to get in and out of." Extra large button down shirts were my salvation. I didn't win fashion awards, but I was comfortable and self-competent.
"During radiation, I visualized myself on a beach under the healing light of the sun. I felt strength moving through me. My treatments were done in February. My family held an indoor beach party to celebrate." A lucky friend of mine went on a cruise to celebrate the end of radiation.
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