Review of First Survivor

itz maya · Post by **itz maya** » 12 Jul 2024, 17:48

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

5 out of 5 stars

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First Survivor: The Impossible Childhood Cancer Breakthrough by Mark Unger tells the story and documents the emotional journey of a three-year-old boy who developed a rare form of cancer called neuroblastoma and the changes the family had to go through. It all started towards the end of August 2001 when the mum, Mary Ellen, noticed that her son was walking strangely and even though he wasn’t always the talkative type, he had become quieter than usual. She took him to a paediatrician, who referred them to a pediatric orthopedist at Yale School of Medicine. He was initially diagnosed with Perthes disease, but in the months that followed, this family was devastated and had to go through significant changes as his health deteriorated and a new diagnosis was made.

One significant lesson I learned from reading this book is the power of advocacy and hope, even when the situation seems too terrible. Mark and his wife, Mary Ellen, did not give up hope that their son would get better; they were relentless and did research for treatments and medication and asked questions every step of the way, which led them to take action when a groundbreaking experimental treatment at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center offered a glimpse of hope. These made so much difference to Louis‘ recovery.

I am particularly taken by Louis‘ older brother, Harry; while not completely understanding what was going on with his brother, the changes around the house, and why his brother was getting more attention than he was, he was so supportive of his little brother.

As an emotional person who would cry through movies describing suffering or pain, I was reluctant to read this book. I bawled my eyes out so many times while reading it, but I can promise you that despite the sobbing and crying, I really enjoyed it, and you would, too. I like how they documented Louis‘ progress and growth using photographs. It made the story even more relatable and was quite beautiful.

I recommend this book to families facing medical challenges and those looking for a story of hope and the power of love. I also recommend it to people who love emotional books and health care professionals, as they can learn something from this story. I’m rating it five out of five stars because I loved everything about it, and it was well-written and professionally edited.

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First Survivor
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Post by **Mary Clarkee** » 20 Jul 2024, 00:27

Reading about a three year old with cancer is extremely devastating and heart-breaking. But then hope would always put smile on our face. I loved how your detailed this book its is amazing. Thank you.

Esther Unurhie · Post by **Esther Unurhie** » 20 Jul 2024, 01:55

"First Survivor" captures the incredible resilience of a family faced with the unimaginable challenge of a child's cancer diagnosis. The family's relentless pursuit of treatment and their unwavering hope, even in the darkest times, serves as an inspiring testament to the power of advocacy and determination in the face of adversity.

DEVIKA R NAIR · Post by **DEVIKA R NAIR** » 20 Jul 2024, 02:42

Thank you for your insightful review! Your thorough analysis and thoughtful feedback are greatly appreciated. It's evident that you put a lot of effort into understanding the content, and your observations will undoubtedly help others. I look forward to hearing more from you in the future.

Senaan Dabit · Post by **Senaan Dabit** » 20 Jul 2024, 08:10

The detailed recount of the family's journey and the emotional rollercoaster they endured adds a personal touch to the review. Highlighting the initial misdiagnosis and the subsequent discovery of a life-saving treatment underscores the importance of second opinions and staying informed about medical options.

Post by **Vivian Writes** » 20 Jul 2024, 08:16

The family must have gone through a lot in dealing with the condition their son endured. The message of hope the book brings will be important to a lot of people going through a similar situation.

williams Emerald · Post by **williams Emerald** » 21 Jul 2024, 03:56

“First Survivor: The Impossible Childhood Cancer Breakthrough by Mark Unger is an incredibly moving and inspiring story. It highlights the power of hope, relentless advocacy, and family support during unimaginable challenges. The Ungers’ journey and little Louis’ resilience offer profound lessons for anyone facing medical adversity. This well-written book is a must-read, especially for those seeking a testament to the strength of love and perseverance.

Post by **Anu Anand** » 21 Jul 2024, 05:09

Thank you for your heartfelt and insightful review. Your deep emotional connection to the story and appreciation for the family's resilience and advocacy truly resonate. Your recommendation and personal reflections beautifully highlight the power of hope and love in the face of adversity. Great review!

Love Ukaegbu · Post by **Love Ukaegbu** » 21 Jul 2024, 09:45

It's said that the worst thing that could happen to a parent is to watch their child suffer, especially when they can do nothing to help. I'm not one to read documentaries, but I love your review. It points out the strengths of the book. Now, even I am interested in what happened to the child and if he survived this fate. This is a good recommendation, and I look forward to this book.

Post by **Colleado Keana Rose** » 21 Jul 2024, 09:58

The family must have gone through a lot of difficulties dealing with their son's condition. The message of hope that this book brings is important, as it can help many people going through similar situations

Post by **Jake Shaun** » 21 Jul 2024, 12:55

"First Survivor" by Mark Unger is a poignant account of a three-year-old boy's battle with neuroblastoma, highlighting his family's relentless advocacy and hope. After an initial misdiagnosis, the family's perseverance led them to an experimental treatment that significantly aided their son's recovery. This story underscores the importance of persistence and thorough research in the face of devastating circumstances.

Van Bronski · Post by **Van Bronski** » 21 Jul 2024, 15:27

A powerful testament to hope and the indomitable human spirit. The stories of resilience and triumph over adversity are deeply inspiring, leaving readers with a renewed faith in humanity.

Obido Samuel Chiemerie · Post by **Obido Samuel Chiemerie** » 21 Jul 2024, 20:37

“First Survivor: The Impossible Childhood Cancer Breakthrough by Mark Unger is a powerful testament to the strength of family, the power of hope, and the relentless pursuit of medical breakthroughs. This emotional journey, documented with heartfelt honesty and vivid photographs, offers inspiration and profound lessons for anyone facing life’s toughest battles. Highly recommended.

Jessica Uchechi Azuka · Post by **Jessica Uchechi Azuka** » 21 Jul 2024, 22:25

I really feel for this book. However, from the book's title, I wonder if he survived this illness. I am looking forward to an inspiring read. Amazing review.

Williams Frank · Post by **Williams Frank** » 22 Jul 2024, 01:22

"First Survivor" by Mark Unger tells the emotional story of a three-year-old boy with neuroblastoma and his family's journey, beginning with troubling signs noticed in August 2001.