When Your Life is Touched by Cancer, by author Bob Riter, is a publication that promises guidance to oncology patients, family members and professional caregivers. There are similar books available, but this 132-page gem has much to set it apart from the others.  

The book begins with advice for the newly diagnosed—topics such as communicating with the physician team, how and why to get a second opinion, and other general information that is helpful for a newly diagnosed patient or family member who is attempting to navigate the system for the first time. As the chapters continue, it becomes clear that the book is social work-oriented. The author, quite nicely, covers how to talk about a cancer diagnosis to children, coworkers, and friends; family-relational stressors and supporting others who are also battling cancer. I answer many questions related to these topics in my work, and the refresher in these areas was appreciated.
    
I also found it encouraging that there is a chapter dedicated to self-care during cancer treatments. The medical community tends to offer many discussions on the physical side effects of treatments (e.g., nausea, fatigue), but often overlooks the emotional difficulties that result from a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Chapter 5, “Caring for Yourself During Treatment” offers a good summary of depression, anxiety and self-esteem. There is also discussion of transitions during treatment, with an emphasis (to my delight an entire chapter) on post-treatment emotional effects that can contribute to depression and anxiety (Chapter 7, “After Treatment”). This is something that I also try to prepare my patients for, as there just isn’t enough support material to share with those transitioning back into “normal” life after completing treatments.  

The length of this publication is one of its strengths. A newly diagnosed patient, who may already feel overwhelmed, would easily be able to navigate this book. Although limited in size, the book conveys a large amount of information that is clear and concise. I was intrigued and inspired by the author (a breast cancer survivor) and the stories that he shared about his own experiences with cancer. I’d like to learn more about him and “pick his brain” over a cup of coffee. The patients he works with at his resource center are fortunate to have him as an advocate and resource.

I highly recommend When Your Life is Touched by Cancer to my patients, their families and other oncology professionals. The book truly offers something for everyone.

For more information about When Your Life is Touched by Cancer by Bob Riter, and the Cancer Resource Center of the Finger Lakes, visit www.crcfl.net.

When Your Life is Touched by Cancer:  Practical Advice and Insights for Patients, Professionals, and Those Who Care
Author: Bob Riter
ISBN:  978-0-89-793-679-8