Dealing with a cancer diagnosis, treatment or long-term survival issues can sometimes be overwhelming or confusing. If you're an adult patient or the caregiver of an adult patient, there are books that can help you find ways to better manage your new responsibilities. Click on one of the following topics to find books that can help you cope.
- Caregiving
- Complementary Approaches and Nutrition
- Death and Dying
- Decision Making
- Disease-Specific Reference Book
- Financial/Legal
- Grief
- Inspiration
- Living with Cancer
- Side Effects
- Treatment
Caregiving
Instructional DVD: How to Give Comfort through Touch and Massage to a Loved One with Cancer
[Instructional DVD: How to Give Comfort through Touch and Massage to a Loved One with Cancer] By William Collinge, PhD, MPH 20009
A thorough and authoritative DVD program provides detailed instruction by leading experts in the field of oncology massage in safe and simple techniques anyone can learn and apply. Developed with support from the National Cancer Institute Division of Cancer Control and Population Sciences, Behavioral Research Program, Health Communication Informatics Research Branch (grant #CA103606). The instructional DVD follows 11 cancer patients and their caregivers through a workshop as they learn and practice simple touch and massage techniques together. It is especially helpful for the caregiver. Full program available in English, Spanish, Mandarin and Cantonese languages (plus optional subtitles for the hearing impaired).
Researchers and institutions who would like to use the program in their own studies and projects, collaborate in development of new applications for the program, or have it produced in additional language versions are invited to contact Collinge and Associates.
For more information: http://collinge.org/Contact.html
100 Questions & Answers About Caring for Family or Friends with Cancer
[100 Questions & Answers About Caring for Family or Friends with Cancer] By Susannah L. Rose, MSSW, and Richard T. Hara, Ph.D.
Joans and Bartlett Publishers, 2005, 223 pages
ISBN: 0-7637-2361-4
For people who are supporting someone through the mental or physical ordeal of a cancer diagnosis, this book is a guide to the day-to-day challenges and offers numerous suggestions and support.
For more information: www.jbpub.com
Caregivers' Guide for Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant: Practical Perspective
[Caregivers' Guide for Bone Marrow/Stem Cell Transplant: Practical Perspective] Edited by Myra Jacobs, M.A.; Anne Murley, M.S.W., L.C.S.W.; and Carole Slotkin, M.Ed.
National Bone Marrow Transplant Link, 2003, 59 pages
The National Bone Marrow Transplant Link has published a practical compilation of brief essays on caregiving for the transplant recipient. In the environment of increasing outpatient care, the caregiver's responsibilities have become more closely woven into the bone marrow transplant (BMT) process itself. Told from the perspective of various members of the healthcare team - oncology social work and nursing, mother and spouse of the patient as well as the patient, this booklet offers insights into the BMT caregiver role while affirming its importance.
Caregiving and Loss: Family Needs, Professional Responses
[Caregiving and Loss: Family Needs, Professional Responses] By Kenneth J. Doka and Joyce Davidson, Editors
Hospice Foundation of America, 2001, 321 pages
ISBN: 1893349020321
This book was written for professionals who support family caregivers as advocates or policy makers, as well as those who directly provide professional care. Sections include "Programs that Work" and "Voices," in which caregivers speak of their personal experiences. Foreword by Rosalynn Carter.
For more information: www.hospicefoundation.org
And Thou Shalt Honor: A Caregivers Companion
[And Thou Shalt Honor: A Caregiver's Companion] Edited by Beth Witrogen McLeod
Rodale Press, 2002, 464 pages
ISBN: 1579545580
This encyclopedic companion to the PBS special And Thou Shalt Honor provides practical information, as well as suggested checklists and "action plans" on a wide variety of issues that challenge caregivers. Themes include reaching out to a loved one in need of help, managing day-to-day caregiving tasks, accessing public and private resources, navigating the legal and financial maze and assembling a support network. Researchers, patient advocates and actual caregivers alike share expertise, experiences and available resources.
Chemo Sabe: A Guide to Being a Personal Advocate for a Chemotherapy Patient
[Chemo Sabe: A Guide to Being a Personal Advocate for a Chemotherapy Patient] By Brenda L. Joyner
Polonius Press, 2003, 144 pages
ISBN: 0972918000
In addition to love and moral support, there are many practical things you can do to assist someone undergoing treatment for cancer. Chemo Sabe offers a wonderful collection of helpful hints and practical information to help caregivers to also be their loved one's Personal Advocate.
Charlie's Cancer Rescue
[Charlie's Cancer Rescue] By David Justus, Linda Justus
Authorhouse, 2004, 168 pages
ISBN: 1418491462
This is a book that is enjoyable and easy to read for all ages. It provides over 100 suggestions that are beneficial while facing the trials of cancer, promotes the understanding that one does have the power to change and take control, and lists the benefits of finding and participating in a support group. Charlie's Cancer Rescue also provides a very helpful nationwide list of resources from cancer-related organizations.
Complementary Approaches and Nutrition
Integrative Nutritional Therapies for Cancer: A Scientific Guide to Natural Products used to Treat and Prevent Cancer
[Integrative Nutritional Therapies for Cancer: A Scientific Guide to Natural Products used to Treat and Prevent Cancer] By Nagi B. Kumar, Kathy Allen, Diane Riccardi
Facts & Comparisons; 1st edition, 2002, 165 pages
ISBN: 1574391038
Five specialists from the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute provide current information on the prevalent alternative and complementary nutritional therapies used for the prevention and treatment of cancer in children and adults. Arranged alphabetically, each of the 36 entries includes information on the product's origin, chemistry, research findings on its potential use for cancer and other conditions, safety and toxicity, and recommendations to professionals and the public based on the current scientific consensus. The appendices include a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) list of unsafe herbs, supplements associated with injury and illness and a table of drug, nutrient and supplement interactions.
The Survivor Meditations (Audio Compact Disc)
Compiled and narrated by Jennifer Scanlon M.Ed., LCPC
Produced by Lesley Spencer & Gabriella Publishing, 2007, 68 minutes
This CD consists of six short and one long creative visualization designed to help the listener access positive feelings and pave the way to healing. They were inspired by the work of Kathy and Roger Cawthon of The Cancer Crusade (listen to the CD for free at www.thecancercrusade.com). The Cawthons believe that the word survivor is about being a warrior, a fighter who is going to go the distance and do whatever it takes to beat their disease. They feel that the fight is an attitude or a state of mind.
One Bite at a time: Nourishing Recipes for People with Cancer, Survivors, and Their Caregivers
[One Bite at a time: Nourishing Recipes for People with Cancer, Survivors, and Their Caregivers] By Rebecca Katz, Marsha Tomassi, Mat Edelson
Ten Speed Press, 2004, 176 pages
ISBN: 1587612194
A full-color cookbook for cancer patients and their loved ones with 150 recipes and nutritional information.
Cancer Fitness: Exercise Programs for Patients and Survivors
[Cancer Fitness: Exercise Programs for Patients and Survivors] Cancer Fitness: Exercise Programs for Patients and Survivors
By Anna L. Schwartz
Simon & Schuster Trade, 2004, 283 pages
ISBN: 074323801X
Most cancer patients and survivors think that "rest" will decrease their fatigue and speed their recovery. But in fact, rest can make most patients weak and debilitated during treatment and may prolong hospitalization. Based on Dr. Anna Schwartz's research and life's work as a nurse and coach, Cancer Fitness offers cancer patients and survivors comprehensive advice and an easy step-by-step program to begin improving their physical and emotional health and reclaiming their lives beyond cancer.
The Cancer Lifeline Cookbook
[The Cancer Lifeline Cookbook] By Kimberly Mathai with Ginny Smith
Sasquatch Books, 2004, 234 pages
ISBN: 1570614113
This book features 100 easy-to-make recipes from the nation's top chefs and from cancer patients and survivors. A natural choice for cancer survivors, people living with cancer, caregivers and those interested in diet and nutrition.
Death and Dying
Final Gifts: Understanding the Special Awareness, Needs, and Communications of The Dying
[Final Gifts: Understanding the Special Awareness, Needs, and Communications of The Dying] By Maggie Callanan, Patricia Kelley
Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing, 1997, 231 pages
ISBN: 0553378767
When someone we love is terminally ill, we are often unprepared to deal with the experience. But the dying have much to tell us and give to us. Final Gifts is a deeply moving, groundbreaking book that teaches us how to recognize and "decode" the often symbolic communications of those on the verge of death. In this humane, compassionate and insightful approach to helping the dying, Callanan and Kelley show families, friends and other caregivers how to listen to the dying, how to understand and accept what they wish or need to share and how to learn from this awesome life event in ways that bring understanding, comfort, intimacy and peace.
Decision Making
Second Opinions: Stories of Intuition and Choice in the Changing World of Medicine
[Second Opinions: Stories of Intuition and Choice in the Changing World of Medicine] By Jerome Groopman, M.D.
Penguin USA (Paper), 2001, 256 pages
ISBN: 0140298622
A Harvard Medical School professor and a cancer researcher, Dr. Groopman combines his scientific experience and communication skills in exploring how patients and their doctors make critical medical decisions. Told from the physician's perspective, the eight real-life narratives reflect the ambiguities and complexities inherent in medical science, the promise and limitations of new treatments and the current state of the healthcare delivery system.
Disease-Specific Reference Books
Brain Tumours - Leaving the Garden of Eden
[Brain Tumours-Leaving the Garden of Eden] Paul M. Zeltzer, M.D.
SP Shilysca Press, 2004, 393 pages
ISBN: 0-9760171-0-5
This is a survival guide to diagnosis, learning the basics, getting organized and finding your medical team, was written specifically for patients and families living with brain tumours but offers wisdom and advice for anyone living with cancer. It contains two especially relevant chapters on brain lymphomas (chapter 14, pages 323-333) and on searching the Web and internet (chapter 4, pages 69-85).
For more information: www.survivingbraincancer.com
Adult Leukemia: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Families
[Adult Leukemia: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Families] By Barbara Lackritz
O'Reilly & Associates Inc., 2001, 512 pages
ISBN: 0596500017
This patient-centered guide provides an overview of many types of leukemia and explores signs and symptoms, diagnosis, tests and procedures, treatment options, as well as coping strategies.
Living with Lymphoma
[Living with Lymphoma] By Elizabeth M. Adler, Ph.D.
The John Hopkins University Press, 2005, 399 pages
ISBN: 0-8018-8180-3
A comprehensive resource for coping with medical, emotional and practical challenges. The author, who is a lymphoma survivor, thoroughly explains the disease, describing the many different kinds of Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas, the wide range of symptoms and the various treatment options available.
This book can be purchased at www.amazon.com.
Financial/Legals
Fight Your Health Insurer and Win: Secrets of the Insurance Warrior
[Fight Your Health Insurer and Win: Secrets of the Insurance Warrior] By Laurie Todd
Healthwise Publications, 2007, 194 pages
ISBN: 0979143502
Do you have health insurance? Will it be there when you need it? "Between 2000 and 2003, seven in 10 adults who were driven into debt by medical expenses HAD INSURANCE AT THE TIME" (Readers Digest, April 2006). Among the many strategies which the insurers use to deny care:
The provider or hospital is "out of network."
The treatment/drug/procedure is "experimental."
The surgery/drug/procedure is "not medically necessary."
With Laurie's book, Fight Your Health Insurer and Win, you will learn how to leap these objections in a single bound.
About the Author: Laurie Todd is the Insurance Warrior. Diagnosed with appendix cancer, she fought her health insurer's denial of care and won. She has written appeals for patients all over the country. HMO, PPO, POS, military insurance ... She has never lost a case.
For more information: www.theinsurancewarrior.com
Be Prepared: The Complete Financial, Legal and Practical Guide to Living with Cancer, HIV and Other Challenging Conditions
[Be Prepared: The Complete Financial, Legal and Practical Guide to Living with Cancer, HIV, and other Life Challenging Conditions] By David Landay
St. Martin's Press, 1998, 447 pages
ISBN: 0312253745
A complete financial, legal and practical guide for living with a life-challenging condition. These issues are addressed in a positive, supportive style with practical worksheets to use to prepare for the future.
Grief
Liberating Losses: When Death Brings Relief
[Liberating Losses: When Death Brings Relief] By Jennifer Ellison, Chris McGonigle
Da Capo Press, 2004, 240 pages
ISBN: 0738209481
When someone dies, those left behind are expected to grieve. But, as taboo as it is to admit, not every death brings sadness. Labeled as "nontraditional grief response" by therapists and counsellors, a positive reaction following a death is becoming more common, especially now that drugs and medical treatments keep people alive much longer than they and their families might wish. Sometimes we are relieved that our loved one is no longer suffering; at the other end of the spectrum, a death might finally free us of an abusive or unhappy relationship. In either case, the cultural expectation for sadness, loneliness and despair only adds to the guilt and conflict felt by many "relieved grievers."
I'll Be in the Car
[I'll Be in the Car] By Annette Januzzi Wick
Three Arch Press, 2006, 392 pages
ISBN: 0977485609
A poetic account chronicling the real-life experiences of author Annette Wick as her husband is diagnosed with, and ultimately dies from, leukemia. Poignantly, this story portrays the even greater challenge for the caregiver - finding life after losing someone so important to every aspect of who you are. For anyone who has or will experience loss, Annette Wick reminds readers, caregivers and widows - We are not alone. We all share the common thread of struggling to live again.
About the Author: Annette Januzzi Wick was born in northern Ohio and now lives in Cincinnati with her son and her newly blended family. Excerpts from I'll Be in the Car were awarded Honorable Mention in the 73rd Annual Writer's Digest Competition. I'll Be in the Car was awarded Finalist, Best Books 2006 Autobiography/Memoir.
How to Go on Living When Someone You Love Dies
[How to Go on Living When Someone You Love Dies] By Therese A. Rando
Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing, 1991, 338 pages
ISBN: 0553352695
Mourning the death of a loved one is a process all of us will go through at one time or another. But whether the death is sudden or anticipated, few of us are prepared for it or for the grief it brings. There is no right or wrong way to grieve; each person's response to loss will be different. Now, in this compassionate comprehensive guide, Dr. Rando, bereavement specialist and author of Loss and Anticipatory Grief, leads you gently through the painful but necessary process of grieving and helps you find the best way for yourself.
Inspiration
No Such Thing as a Bad Day
[No Such Thing as a Bad Day] By Hamilton Jordan
Longstreet Press, 2000, 272 pages
ISBN: 156352578X
This book is the moving account of one man's successful battle against three cancers - non-Hodgkin lymphoma, melanoma and prostate cancer - over a dozen years. In each fight for his life, Hamilton Jordan sought out the best treatment available, but this is not ultimately a story about medical miracles; it is a more powerful story of a patient beating cancer and taking charge of his own battle and becoming a full partner in his cure. Attitude and information are the critical keys, and the book concludes with a self-help section to show others how to follow his example. Jordan weaves through his memoir fascinating episodes from his life in the public eye, and shows how battling cancer brings life into true perspective.
Kitchen Table Wisdom: Stories that Heal
[Kitchen Table Wisdom: Stories that Heal] By Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D.
Berkeley Publishing Group, 1997, 368 pages
ISBN: 1573226106
From her experience as a physician, a professor of medicine, a therapist and a long-term survivor of chronic illness, Dr. Remen offers an intimate relationship with healing and the life force. Sitting around the table telling stories is not just a way of passing time. It is the way the wisdom gets passed along. Loneliness, the hidden wound of our time, is the price many have paid for overemphasizing the values of independence, self-reliance and competence. Remen's parables are an invitation to see below the surface and remember that we are connected and can become one another's healers.
Chicken Soup for the Surviving Soul: 101 Healing Stories About Those Who Have Survived Cancer
[Chicken Soup for the Surviving Soul: 101 Healing Stories About Those Who Have Survived Cancer] By Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, Patty Aubrey, Nancy Mitchell, R.N., Beverly Kirkhart
Health Communications, Inc., 1996, 341 pages
ISBN: 1558744029
More than 100 cancer survivors share their personal stories in this touching new collection of Chicken Soup. These heartwarming accounts of courageous people who found the power to battle cancer in their endless hope, unwavering faith and steadfast determination will inspire you to adopt a positive attitude, discover your faith and cherish every moment. Just what the doctor ordered for healing your body, mind and soul.
Living with Cancer
Diagnosis Cancer: Your Guide to the First Few Months of Healthy Survivorship, Expanded and Updated
[Diagnosis Cancer: Your Guide to the First Few Months of Healthy Survivorship, Expanded and Updated] By Wendy Schlessel Harpham, M.D.
W.W. Norton, 2003, 262 pages
ISBN: 0393324605
The author, a physician and cancer survivor, guides patients through the first few frightening months after diagnosis. An easy-to-read format, up-to-date basic information and advice is presented on the physical, emotional and practical challenges of evaluation and treatment. This new edition includes Harpham's Decision Tool, a unique grid that helps people make informed treatment decisions in collaboration with their healthcare team.
After Cancer: A Guide to Your New Life
[After Cancer: A Guide to your New Life] By Wendy Schlessel Harpham, M.D., and Robert Jones, Editor
HarperCollins Publishers, 1995, 299 pages
ISBN: 0060976780
The author, a cancer survivor herself, understands that surviving cancer is more than just killing cancer cells and getting through treatment. She explores the practical issues and the psychosocial elements of recovery after cancer treatment that includes the emotional, social, spiritual and financial fallout of a cancer diagnosis. By helping survivors understand that they can't go back to where they were before cancer, Dr. Harpham encourages people to move forward to a different, "new normal."
For more information: www.wendyharpham.com
Cancer Etiquette: What to Say, What to Do When Someone You Know or Love Has Cancer
[Cancer Etiquette: What to Say, What to Do When Someone You Know or Love Has Cancer] By Rosanne Kalick
Lion Books Publisher, 2005, 146 pages
ISBN: 0874604508
Have you ever been at a loss for words when a friend or colleague or a loved one has been given a diagnosis of cancer? Have you ever wanted to do something "nice" for a person who is being treated for cancer and not known exactly what would be appropriate? This book contains myriad suggestions for saying and acting on the most helpful, compassionate and appropriate responses and explains why they are. Rosanne Kalick's valuable contributions are drawn from her personal experiences dealing with cancer not once, but twice. This unique position empowered her to conduct intense research, personal interviews and to use letters and emails from cancer patients all over the world. (Atlas Books)
About the Author: Rosanne Kalick - Although cancer has changed the author's life, it has not changed who she is. While she no longer jogs (she had completed three New York City Marathons), she is an avid walker. She is particularly gifted in her ability to communicate, having been a professor and chairperson of the Library and Learning Resource Center at Westchester Community College in New York. She ultimately received the State University Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Librarianship. (Atlas Books)
Handbook for Mortals: Guidance for People Facing Serious Illness
[Handbook for Mortals: Guidance for People Facing Serious Illness] By Joanne Lynn, M.D. and Joan Harrold, M.D.
The Center to Improve Care of the Dying
Oxford University Press, 2001, 256 pages
ISBN: 0195146018
Designed for caregivers as well as patients, this book combines insight and inspiration with practical information and suggestions for coping with critical illness in all its physical and emotional complexity. Topics include accepting a new lifestyle, controlling pain, getting help and grieving. There is also a section that explores the question of when to let go of pursuing uncomfortable treatments in favour of making a positive choice about how to live near the end of life.
The Human Side of Cancer: Living with Hope, Coping with Uncertainty
[The Human Side of Cancer: Living with Hope, Coping with Uncertainty] Jimmie C. Holland, M.D., and Sheldon Lewis
HarperCollins, 2000, 340 pages
ISBN 0060173718
Provides practical and compassionate guidance for dealing with the uncertainty of a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Holland, who chaired the Department Psychiatry at Sloan-Kettering, dispels societal myths and beliefs about coping with cancer, from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond.
Live Longer, Live Larger: A Holistic Approach for Cancer Patients and their Families
[Live Longer, Live Larger: A Holistic Approach for Cancer Patients and their Families] By William M. Buchholz, M.D., and Susan W. Buchholz, Ph.D.
O' Reilly & Associates, Inc., 2001, 389 pages
ISBN: 1565928458
Through years of practice as a hematologist/oncologist/psychologist team, the Buchholz's have helped people to construct strategies for dealing with life-threatening illness. Addressing medical and psychological issues, this book includes stories, exercises and tools to help patients live "longer" and more meaningfully, regardless of prognosis or stage of disease.
Side Effects
100 Questions & Answers About Cancer Symptoms and Cancer Treatment Side Effects
[100 Questions & Answers About Cancer Symptoms and Cancer Treatment Side Effects] By Joanne Frankel Kelvin, RN, MSN, AOCN & Leslie B. Tyson, MS, APN-BC, OCN Joans and Bartlett Publishers, 2005, 228 pages
ISBN: 0-7637-2612-5
This book is written by experienced oncology nurses for patients and caregivers who may have questions about treatment side effects. Practical answers to questions about what to expect from cancer and its treatment are provided.
For more information: www.jbpub.com
Treatment
Over 140 Things You Need to Know About Your Autologous Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant
[Over 140 Things You Need to Know About Your Autologous Bone Marrow or Stem Cell Transplant] By Mark Patton
MGC Publications, 88 pages, 2005
ISBN: 0-9768060-0-2
This book is the personal account of a young multiple myeloma patient who has undergone two autologous bone marrow transplants and three peripheral blood stem cell transplants over the course of his treatment. The author's objective is to share his knowledge with other blood cancer patients and to assist those facing an autologous transplant to better understand the procedure and recovery. This user-friendly guide offers advice and information on topics including selecting a transplant center, recovering from induction therapy and avoiding infection, caring for your caregiver and tips on incorporating complementary and alternative medicine practices.
Autologous Stem Cell Transplants: A Handbook for Patients
[Autologous Stem Cell Transplants: A Handbook for Patients] By Susan K. Stewart
Blood & Marrow Transplant Information Network, 191 pages
ISBN: 0964735210191
This book is a complete resource for patients having an autologous stem cell transplant - one that uses the patient's own stem cells. Directed to patients and caregivers, this book includes valuable information along a continuum from preparation for the transplant, the treatment itself and aftercare. The author, a leukemia and stem cell transplant survivor, is executive director of the Blood and Marrow Transplant Information Network.
One Hundred Days: My Unexpected Journey from Doctor to Patient
[One Hundred Days: My Unexpected Journey from Doctor to Patient] By David Biro, M.D.
Knopf Publishing Group, 2001, 304 pages
ISBN: 0375706739
Stricken with a potentially life-threatening rare blood disease, Dr. Biro chooses to undergo a potentially curative, though potentially life-threatening allogeneic stem cell transplant, despite conflicting medical advise. Told with candor and humour, he shares his experiences of the transplant process. From the perspective of a patient who is also a doctor, he includes both the physical and the emotional impact of the transplant.
Bone Marrow and Blood Stem Cell Transplants: A Guide for Patients
[Bone Marrow and Blood Stem Cell Transplants: A Guide for Patients] By Susan K. Stewart
Blood & Marrow Transplant Information Network, 2002, 210 pages
ISBN: 0964735237
This comprehensive, easy-to-read guide contains a wealth of information for people who will be transplanted with donor bone marrow, peripheral blood stem cells or cord blood. Written with the help of many doctors, nurses, caregivers and transplant survivors, it helps patients and families translate medical information into ordinary language - from the basics to dealing with the side effects of the treatment. There are tips on navigating the complex healthcare delivery system as well as the patient's financial situation and engages the emotional impact of transplantation on both the patient and the caregiver.
100 Questions & Answers About Cancer and Fertility
[100 Questions & Answers About Cancer and Fertility] By Lindsay Beck, Kutluck H. Oktay MD, Joyce Dillon Reinecke, JD
Jones and Bartlett Publishers, 2008 152 Pages
ISBN: 978-0-7637-4049-8
Whether you're a newly diagnosed cancer patient, a survivor or a loved one of someone suffering from infertility, this book offers help. The only book available which provides both the doctor's and patient's views, 100 Questions & Answers About Cancer & Fertility, provides practical, authoritative answers to 100 of the most common questions asked by cancer patients and survivors about fertility. Written by an Ob-Gyn/reproductive medicine specialist and cancer/fertility patient advocate, with commentary from actual patients, this is an invaluable resource for anyone struggling with the medical, physical and emotional turmoil of cancer and infertility.