Just Get Me Through This!: The Practical Guide to Breast Cancer (Paperback)

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Editorial Reviews:

From Publishers Weekly
It's hard to believe that a breast cancer guide can be fun, but breast cancer survivor Cohen and oncologist Gelfand have produced a book that combines medical information with the kind of warm, funny, rueful sharing a woman gets from a good talk with her girlfriends. The authors understand that surviving an illness as emotionally and physically traumatic as breast cancer requires help not only with big issues but also with apparently trivial ones. In between solid and well-summarized discussions on diagnostic, treatment and reconstruction options, they share a plethora of tips on the smaller but still difficult problems faced by disease victims, such as finding the right post-chemo headgear (silk slides off a bald skull, so cotton is better). They prepare readers for everything from insensitive remarks (when Cohen told one acquaintance she was starting chemotherapy that day, he replied, "So I guess you're not available for lunch") and hormonal swings to insurance problems. The tone is upbeat but realistic, sympathetic but never patronizing; "Rules of the Road" sections directed to friends and family give them advice on how to offer useful support. This wise, balanced book is a welcome addition to a woman's medical care library, offering not just warm, intelligent hand-holding for breast cancer victims but also useful insights for anyone with a friend or family member suffering from this frightening disease.


From Library Journal
Having someone to talk with who has been there can make that mind-numbing diagnosis of breast cancer somewhat bearable. Even a stranger from a support group or the friend of a friend can reassure you just because she knows what you're going through. Cohen, a breast cancer survivor, has chosen to be that confidante and information source. She outlines every step of the process from diagnosis to posttreatment in a way that is congenial, honest, wry, and straight-from-the-hip. Books by physicians (e.g., John Link's The Breast Cancer Survival Manual, LJ 3/1/98, which is frequently referenced here) have excellent information, but Cohen's friend-in-need approach offers a unique and welcome perspective. In addition, oncologist Gelfand steps in where more technical discussions and definitions are required. As Cohen gives the real skinny on options, chemotherapy (eat Fudgsicals to minimize or eliminate mouth sores), radiation (grow your own aloe plant for relief of skin irritation), relationships, workplace issues, and aftercare, she considers "Rules of the Road" for family and friends to help them know what to do and say during a loved one's ordeal. This is a wonderful book; all patient health collections should have several copies.
-Bette-Lee Fox, "Library Journal"

Breast Cancer- Top Ten Things Every Woman Should Know

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Breast cancer is a reality many women will have to deal with. Statistics show that one woman out of nine will develop breast cancer in her life. Whether it be a dear friend, a close family member or herself, every woman will be touched by breast cancer in one way or the other. Breast cancer accounts for about 30% of all cancers. 

1. Every woman should be aware of the risk factors and change those she can to lower her risk of developing breast cancer in her life. 

2. Women who are not active physically, smoke or consume a lot of alcohol are at higher risk to develop breast cancer. 

3. Women who have their first child at a later age or have never given birth are at higher risk to develop breast cancer. 

4. Women who had their first period at an earlier age (less than 12 years old) are at higher risk for breast cancer. 

5. Woman who have close family members who had develop breast cancer are at higher risk for themselves. 

6. Women who are older. The further a woman advances in life, the higher her probability of developing breast cancer. 

7. Women who experience a late menopause (after 55 years old) have an increase risk of developing breast cancer. 

8. There is hope however and certain measures have proven to help reduce the risk of developing breast cancer for a woman. It is recommended to exercise regularly, lose any excess weight, lower alcohol consumption and stop smoking. It is also proven that women who breastfeed their babies are at lower risks to develop breast cancer. 

9. Certain measures, by finding breast cancer at an earlier stage can lower the complication rate and morbidity associated with this condition. The two most recommended measures are to do a mammogram exam every two years after the age of 50 (or earlier if a woman has risk factors) and doing a breast self-examination. It is also recommended for a woman to visit her doctor regularly. One has to know that about two thirds of breast tumours are found by the woman herself upon doing her self-examination. 

10. Many organizations and industries have joined forces to push back breast cancer and one can only encourage them by donating time or money for this worthy cause. There are many researches on breast cancer conducted worldwide and it is expected that the near future will see the decline of this devastating affliction.

by : Nathalie Fiset published on www.articlecity.com
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