Breast Cancer, There and Back A Woman-to-Woman Guide by Jami Bernard
A diagnosis of breast cancer is terrifying. There are so many questions, particularly personal ones, but it's a rare doctor that will answer them. In Breast Cancer, There & Back, author Jami Bernard covers such details as wig shopping, "chemopause" and it's effects on your body and psyche, coping with your family and friends (including the ones that aren't helpful!), nutritional needs, complementary therapies and much more.
Jami, a breast cancer survivor, begins her book with The Basics which includes information on chemotherapy and radiation, what to pack in your bag for your first chemo session, what to expect during your chemotherapy session and afterwards, coping with the hair loss (including your brows and lashes), and radiation therapy (will you need a tattoo?). Throughout, Jami gives tips such as "You don't have to spend money on a wig if you're on a tight budget. You can borrow one through the American Cancer Society."
Besides the basics, Jami covers deeply personal issues that no one may think to tell you . . ."The radiated breast may feel different to the touch afterward. The skin may feel thicker, the breast heavier. These differences are minimized over time."
Part two of the book is Coping and includes chapters on mental strategies, support, taking care of the body and psyche, alternative vs. complementary therapies, and getting back to normal. Jami's Mental Strategies chapter is applicable to practically anyone coping with a major life event/trauma/illness. She discusses such things as mental overload (don't keep yourself awake all night pouring through medical books!), what to do with toxic friends and dealing with insomnia. Her section on needlephobia presents great tips for containing the panic!
She finishes the book with suggested reading, resources and a glossary.
Besides having such valuable and personal information most people won't discuss with a cancer patient, this book is also like curling up with a girlfriend. Jami discusses even the most delicate issues with humor and honesty. "Cancer is full of indignities, and here's another one - I did not lose my underarm hair! Now how unfair is that!"
Breast Cancer, There and Back is an invaluable book for any breast cancer patient. But it would also be a good choice for friends and family wanting to support a loved one with breast cancer.
Book review by Maribeth Doerr
Congratulations to our winners of the breast cancer books contest:Linda, Valerie, Carla and Lizanne!
