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Review of First Survivor

Posted: 23 Jul 2024, 12:34
by Varisha Khanna
[Following is a volunteer review of "First Survivor" by Mark Unger.]
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5 out of 5 stars
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I would rate “First Survivor” by Mark Unger a 5/5. It is a heart-wrenching yet inspiring true story that chronicles one family's relentless pursuit to save their son from a rare form of pediatric cancer. The narrative follows the Unger family as they navigate the harrowing journey of their son Louis's battle with Neuroblastoma, a journey marked by resilience, hope, and unwavering determination.

The story begins with the devastating diagnosis of Louis Unger, a young boy diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of pediatric cancer. Faced with the grim reality and limited treatment options, the Unger family refuses to accept a bleak prognosis. The book details their exhaustive search for answers and alternative treatments, illustrating the lengths to which parents will go to save their children.

The family's journey leads them to leading medical professionals and cutting-edge research facilities. With each new avenue explored, they encounter numerous challenges and setbacks, yet their determination never wavers. The family's advocacy and relentless pursuit of innovative treatments eventually led to a groundbreaking clinical trial, offering a glimmer of hope. Luis’s parents, Mark and Mary Ellen organically divide the responsibilities amongst themselves. Mark takes on a lot of the research needed to be done and Mary Ellen takes on more of the day-to-day tasks such as setting up a calendar to keep track of everything needed for Louis’s treatment.

Through medical expertise, cutting-edge treatments, and sheer willpower, Louis's condition begins to improve. His battle is not just a fight for survival but a beacon of hope for other families facing similar struggles. The narrative highlights the importance of parental advocacy, the impact of medical research, and the power of hope and perseverance.

The story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of never giving up. It serves as a beacon of hope for families dealing with similar hardships. The narrative is deeply emotional, capturing the highlights of the Unger family’s journey with raw honesty and empathy.

The book is well edited and there were no grammatical errors that I could find. I appreciated the glossary section at the end of the book which helped explain some of the medical terminology. The” resources for support” are a nice addition for any family facing a similar battle. This book has no negatives and is greatly emotional and inspiring. I liked the inclusion of pictures in this novel, it can make the reader feel more connected to the family and their story. Some of these pictures brought a smile to my face.

This book is an impactful and compelling read that underscores the importance of hope, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of answers in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges. The author's portrayal of his family's journey is both heart-rending and uplifting, offering inspiration to anyone who has faced or is facing a difficult battle. The book not only highlights the triumph of the Unger family but also serves as a call to action for continued support and research in the fight against pediatric cancer.

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First Survivor
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