Review of First Survivor

[williams Emerald]

[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 "First Survivor," author Mark Unger recounts the intense struggles he and his family faced as they fought to save his son Louis from neuroblastoma, a severe childhood cancer. Mark’s journey is characterised by relentless research and connecting with top specialists to find the best treatment options. Despite initially overcoming the cancer, Louis faces a devastating relapse, with no known survivors at the time.

The narrative powerfully illustrates the family's resilience and determination. Mark's efforts to document their experiences offer a deeply personal and educational insight into the complexities of battling such an aggressive illness. The book highlights the unwavering support of Louis' mother, who remains a pillar of strength and unity for the family. Their decision to pursue the best medical care possible underscores their deep parental love and commitment.

The book not only tells a captivating story but also serves as an informative resource, providing clear explanations of complex medical terms and concepts. Readers will gain a better understanding of challenging medical conditions such as acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), and metastasis. The author also explains medical procedures and technologies, like superior vena cava catheters and embryonic stem cells, in an accessible way.

One of the book’s strengths is how the author showcases the remarkable courage and proactive attitude of Mark and his wife as they navigate Louis’ diagnosis and treatment. They emphasise the importance of being informed and engaged in healthcare, continually seeking answers, and asking critical questions. Their diligence pays off, enabling them to make informed decisions and ensure the best possible care for Louis. This inspiring example will resonate with readers facing similar challenges, offering hope and encouragement.

I found "First Survivor" profoundly moving and insightful, leaving a lasting impact on my perspective on life and resilience. I also found nothing to dislike about the book; it is exceptionally well-edited, free from grammatical errors, and earns a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. I recommend it to families facing similar challenges as a source of hope and inspiration. 

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First Survivor
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[Jeremy Martins]

In "First Survivor," Mark Unger recounts his family's struggle to save his son Louis from neuroblastoma. Despite overcoming the cancer initially, Louis faces a devastating relapse, with no known survivors at the time.

[Sean Patrick Tracy]

As a prospective reader of "First Survivor" by Mark Unger, I am deeply moved by the story of his family's fight against neuroblastoma. The journey of relentless research, the pursuit of top medical care, and the unwavering support from Louis' mother resonate strongly. The book seems to offer not only a powerful narrative but also valuable insights into complex medical conditions and procedures, making it an educational resource as well.

[Kami Chizo]

This book is a compelling and deeply personal memoir that chronicles Mark's family's journey through their son, Louis's battle with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer.

[Obido Samuel Chiemerie]

“First Survivor” by Mark Unger is an inspiring and deeply moving account of a family’s battle against childhood cancer. Unger’s detailed narrative and educational insights offer both hope and invaluable information to families facing similar struggles. Highly recommended!

[Jodi Townsend]

I read this book and posted a review last month. This story, in and of itself, is a heartwrenching story, detailing everything this family and that little boy went through at such a young age. It's a battlefield of a book; strategic decisions, heartbreak, and eventual victory. However, I was not a fan of how the book was written. Not to take away from the story itself, and knowing the child's father, who wrote the book, is not a writer, the editing was lacking and the prose felt like he copied the notes he took throughout this ordeal straight into the book. It reads like a "this is what happened and when" rather than a book that walks with the reader through the pages. This little boy, though, was extraordinary. It's a good read, if you can get past the errors and the way it's written.

[Jake Shaun]

Unger's meticulous research and documentation of their experiences provide an intimate look into the complexities of navigating the medical world while offering educational value for families facing similar challenges. "First Survivor" serves as a powerful testament to the strength of a family united in the face of adversity and their relentless pursuit of hope in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

[itz maya]

This review of "First Survivor" highlights the book's powerful portrayal of a family's fight against neuroblastoma, detailing their relentless search for treatment and the profound resilience of Mark Unger and his wife. It praises the book for its personal depth and educational value, making complex medical topics accessible and inspiring hope for others facing similar battles.

[Emmanuel Chiahulamiro]

Mark Unger’s “First Survivor” is a deeply moving account of a family’s fight against childhood cancer. With its detailed narrative and valuable insights, it offers hope and guidance to families facing similar struggles. Highly recommended!

[Elendu Divine Ugochi]

In his memoir "First Survivor," Mark Unger describes how his family battled to treat Louis' neuroblastoma. Even if Louis first beats cancer, there is a terrible return, and at that point, there are no known survivors.

[Remilekun Kehinde]

“First Survivor" paints a powerful picture of resilience and love in the face of adversity. It sounds like a deeply moving and informative read, offering hope and inspiration to families navigating similar challenges.

[Enkay Favour]

"First Survivor" by Mark Unger is a profoundly moving account of a family's relentless battle against neuroblastoma, highlighting the power of resilience and informed medical advocacy. Through meticulous research and unwavering support, Mark and his wife navigate their son Louis' devastating diagnosis and relapse, offering readers both inspiration and a clear understanding of complex medical challenges. This well-crafted narrative is both an educational resource and a testament to the strength of parental love, making it a must-read for anyone facing similar hardships. Highly recommended with a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

[Rachael Stephen]

Your detailed review makes "First Survivor" sound incredibly compelling and deeply touching. It seems like a book that not only tells a powerful story of resilience but also educates and inspires. Your recommendation speaks volumes about its impact.

[Rachael Stephen]

"First Survivor" sound incredibly compelling and deeply touching. It seems like a book that not only tells a powerful story of resilience but also educates and inspires. Your recommendation speaks volumes about its impact.

[Enkay Favour]

Based on the detailed review, “First Survivor” seems to offer a compelling and deeply personal account of a family’s battle against a severe childhood cancer. It looks like a powerful read for anyone interested in understanding the emotional and medical complexities of such a journey, even if I haven’t experienced it myself.