Review of First Survivor

[Pam Fitz]

[Following is a volunteer review of "First Survivor" by Mark Unger.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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In 2001, Louis Unger, at the age of three, was diagnosed with Stage Four Neuroblastoma.
Neuroblastoma is an intimidating word. Neuroblastoma is an intimidating disease.
From 2001 to 2008 neuroblastoma consumed the life of a young boy and his parents. It is a heart-rending account of a journey to make sure that survival was the only outcome in this intense battle with cancer. It is also the story of two people working in tandem, adopting roles best suited to their personalities and coping skills. Mark takes on the role of researcher and care of Henry; Mary Ellen takes on the daily care of Louis. By repeating information to one another, they ensured they understood it correctly. In their need to know and understand all the nuances of the medical system, they became advocates for their son's treatment, working with medical professionals to devise the best action plan.
Mark adopted note-taking to process large amounts of information, confront a bewildering medical world, and use it as an essential coping tool. Mary Ellen set up a calendar system to keep track of treatment plans, dosages, blood counts, and transfusions. Louis inspired his parents with his positive attitude and courage even when enduring pain and physical discomfort. I am amazed at the good spirits this young child maintained despite the painful treatment he endured.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars for the following reasons. First Survivor is inspiring, well-written, informative, and easy to understand. It is a first-person account, and Mark has incorporated his notes into the story. The notes added a sense of personalization for the reader, which I liked. There is a glossary, a chart with the history of treatments, and a list of resources. Anyone trying to maneuver through a confusing medical world should read this book. It appears that the book has been professionally edited with no evident grammar errors. There is some profanity.

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First Survivor
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[David Samanthaa]

First Survivor is a compelling tale of a young boy’s fight against the odds. Louis's journey to become the first child to overcome neuroblastoma is narrated with deep emotion by Mark Unger