This is a book that no one wants to need, and yet, unfortunately, there is a need for it. I am so appreciative that there are authors considering the hard topics as worthy of investing the time to write a book about.
Children are especially hard to help when there is a family member or friend with cancer. Cancer is a difficult disease and one that is so different in so many people. We have, unfortunately, had to help our children understand cancer for two special people in our lives. I didn’t have this book as we lived through both of these loved one’s fights and losses, and I wish I had.
How to Live on the Edge by Sarah Lynn Scheerger is such an emotional rollercoaster so buckle in before you start this one! It was a beautifully written book with such an emotional draw!
Cayenne and Saffron lost their mother to breast cancer when they were young, leaving them to live with Aunt Tee. They know that the women in their family don’t live past 40. The BRCA gene mutation that runs in their DNA won’t let them. Cayenne spends her time flirting, very dangerously, with death. She stands in front of oncoming trains, jumping out of the way at the last second, and so many other perilous activities. When she is given video messages her mother made for her before her death, she finds that she doesn’t want them, but continues to be drawn to them.
What to Expect, How to Prepare and How to Get Through It
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Rating: 5 out of 5.
My Thoughts:
What I Loved: Beverly A. Zavaleta has written a guide to chemo for cancer patients and family that takes some of the guesswork out of a very stressful and trying time. I loved the way the book was structured with clear sections on different topics. It would make it an easy resource if someone is looking for information on a specific topic.
How I Felt: When I picked this book up, I was a bit concerned that it would be above-my-head language, but I found that it is written in a very easy to understand way. I think that the author’s medical experience as well as person experience as a cancer patient helped her to form a wonderful resource for those who need it.
To Read or Not To Read: I’m going to take this from the author’s note in the beginning of the book. The main thought is that if treatment for you or a loved one is going to undergo chemotherapy, this is a good book for you.
You should read this book if:
You have been diagnosed with cancer and will be starting chemotherapy.
You are currently undergoing chemotherapy.
You are caring for someone who is having chemotherapy and want to learn more about what they are going through.
You have a friend or loved one who is having chemotherapy and you want to give them this book as a gift.
What’s This Book About Anyway?
Braving Chemo by Beverly A. Zavaleta has written a medical go-to for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy mixed with the love and thoughtful comments of a cancer survivor.
The book is structured to provide answers and guidance on the numerous questions and concerns a cancer patient will have as they begin chemotherapy. It covers what to expect during chemotherapy, how to discuss treatment with friends and family, how to handle nausea and so many more topics.
She Just Loves Books 