Review by Nurse9298 -- Dying Well by Susan Ducharme Hoben

Sarah A Martin · Post by **Sarah A Martin** » 12 Jul 2020, 17:27

[Following is a volunteer review of "Dying Well" by Susan Ducharme Hoben.]

4 out of 4 stars

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This is a review of the book Dying Well by Susan Ducharme Hoben. This is a riveting book written by a woman whose husband is diagnosed with a cancerous esophageal tumor. She lovingly tells a very descriptive story of their life and love, their battle with cancer, and their nine-month journey from diagnosis to a peaceful death.

The author herself was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2000, and during her last course of treatment was found to have a tumor in her heart. She completed treatment for cancer, had heart surgery, and was given a clean bill of health in 2008. She, her husband, and their extensive network of friends, family, and neighbors rejoiced with a Celebration of Life party. Their joy was short-lived, however, when within 5 weeks of their party her husband, Bruce, was told he had an esophageal tumor. If cancerous, this would almost definitely be a fatal diagnosis. After extensive testing and consults with specialists, the couple’s worst fears were confirmed. This book chronicles their journey from beginning to end, encompassing the pearls of wisdom they gained, the extreme emotions felt, and how they were able to honor Bruce’s life in preparing for his death.

It is honestly difficult to summarize this book, as it addressed so many facets of life. This was a love story, a comedy, a how-to, a tragedy, and many other things rolled into one. I fell in love with this couple almost immediately and was crying by the second chapter, already feeling entwined with their lives. The author is quite descriptive about family and friends, neighbors, associates, etc., and it was easy to feel as though I was a part of the family. Embarrassingly, I continued to cry through much of this book, although it is well-mixed with funny anecdotes, and the tale is woven through with hope. The author states that Bruce taught her “how to live, how to love, and how to die.”, and I feel that through this book she has helped teach the world to do the same.

This is a very well written book and a riveting story. I rate this book a full 4 out of 4 stars. I was held captive from the very beginning, even though I knew what the ending would hold. This book was informative to me even though I am a nurse and am very familiar with death both personally and through work. It also appealed to me as a love story, showing clearly that this couple was enamored with one another and the life they had lived together. It had its funny points, its overwhelmingly sad points, and yet continued to infuse hope throughout. This is a thorough, descriptive book and is excellently written.

This is an excellent book for anyone who may be on their end of life journey, or for anyone going through this process with a loved one. It is also an excellent read for just about any other adult reader, as there is so much valuable information on living life before our death comes calling. There is not a strong religious thread in this book, so it may not appeal to those of a strong faith looking for divine guidance. This couple had been raised in a religion but had fallen away. It does not denounce any beliefs or discourage religion. Although I have a firm Christian background, I was not offended at any point in reading this book.

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Dying Well
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