Latest Reviews
My heart is so full of words that I want readers to hear and feel. These are but a few.
Inside the covers of this book are three stories of remarkable courage, devastating pain, debts of grief and fear. There are mountain top moments of hope and valleys of the shadows of death. You will wonder at their abilities to continue the fight, while thinking “how would I, if placed into a similar position, withstand ‘their pain’.”
Once you open the pages and begin to read these heroic reflections of Brett, Amy, and Kyle, you will not rest until you read the next chapter, then the next, and next, until you finish the book.
Patricia B.
Cancer is for Old(er) People” is the raw, “in your face” truth of the beast that is cancer. While ugly details are not spared, it ignites the HOPE that while cancer is a beast, it is not an unbeatable one. The cancer journey is not an easy road to travel, and one that provides no short cuts or quick fixes, but it is a beatable disease. This book is a rare journey from the perspective of three young survivors that is absolutely needed in this community. What a blessing to others that are just beginning their fight.
Ashley Danos
We all know a friend or family member who has had cancer, but unless we have it ourselves it is difficult to understand what someone with cancer goes through. There is not only the devastating physical toll but also the emotional and mental toll on both the patient and their friends and family. The writers of this book are three young people who are diagnosed with advanced cancers in the prime of their lives.They allow us to travel with them through their highs and lows, their winning battles, and heart wrenching setbacks, and give us a glimpse into what it is like to be on the battlefield with cancer. One of the writers, Kyle, references a quote by Jack London. “Life is not always a matter of holding good card, but sometimes playing a poor hand well.” This book will help anyone facing cancer to understand that no matter how dire the situation seems, there is always hope.
Sarah Mannino
My heart broke for this young man as I read the emotional, physical, and spititual horrors Brett endured during his 16 month walk through the Valley of the Shadow of Death. But then I found myself thankful for his youth and tenacity because at 68, I knew I could not have endured the agonies. I’d have given up. I applaud this young man, now physician. God tells me ALL THINGS work to the good for those who are called according to his purpose. I could see, in Brett’s thanking the doctor who saved his life, his understanding of the support and truth he received during this health crisis. And his outreach to a childhood friend, as she discovers her stage IV ovarian cancer, is as touching as it is hopeful.
I sadly was not shocked at how poorly Amy’s initial health problems were handled, having experienced similar issues with a recent personal health crisis. As the reader, you can physically feel… Read More
Debra Theriot
Cancer can strike at any age and any time in your life. This book has three great and unique perspectives on what it is like to hear the words, “you have cancer.” All three authors (a teenage boy, a 30-something mother of two daughters, and a 40-something father of two sons) give a vivid description on what it is like to live with this daunting disease.
The authors do not sugar coat anything. Cancer is scary, but you need to read this book to understand that you are your own advocate. Ask tough questions of your treating physicians and work with them as a team. The message is to be resilient and tenacious while at the same time leaning on loved ones for support.
Robb C.
You have cancer” has to be some of the most terrifying words anyone can hear.
I am grateful that the three contributors to this book opened their hearts and souls and allowed me to travel with them as they fought bravely for their lives. Amy, Kyle, and Brett each had different trials that will bring tears to your eyes when you read what they endured, but the book is more about hope and encouragement and the will to live under what seems like insurmountable odds. And it is a great reminder of what is really important in life. After reading this book I have so much more empathy and respect for those who battle life-threatening illnesses.
Roy Roach
As I read this book, I wondered how I would deal with each of these situations. I would like to think that I could handle it with one 10th of the the strength, fortitude and even the sense of humor that these three people did. It is a book that will certainly bring you to tears at times but it will also lift you up. You come away with a sense that with courage, fortitude and love of family and friends, there can always be hope where there appears to be none. Thank you Brett, Amy and Kyle for sharing your story. Wishing you many many years of health and happiness.
Jenni Marino
In this book, three young survivors present emotionally candid accounts of how cancer turned their lives upside down. While many of us have been touched by cancer in some form, few of us have been privy to the raw and honest details of what a cancer patient – especially a young cancer patient – thinks, feels, experiences, and endures. And while there have been many books written about cancer, few have quantified the effects of painkillers and sedatives by likening them to a certain number of beers consumed. Readers are given a unique insight into how a cancer diagnosis and treatment require a “complete reboot of a new set of expectations, challenges, and unknown experiences.”
Without discounting the understandable draw to seek out statistics and scientific data and the inclination to question God, the book emphasizes the importance of a positive mindset, both in private and in public, when facing a cancer diagnosis. The writers’ touching… Read More
Jamie Jones