Review of First Survivor
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Kim Jieun
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Review of First Survivor
[Following is a volunteer review of "First Survivor" by Mark Unger.]
In 2001, on Thanksgiving Day, Louis received a devastating diagnosis of neuroblastoma at Yale, launching a prolonged and arduous journey of treatment. His parents, Mark Unger and Mary Ellen, embarked on a tireless mission to save their son, determinedly seeking out the best cancer care available. They engaged in numerous medical consultations, explored extensive research, and navigated the complexities of medical terminology to fight the disease afflicting their three-year-old child. Simultaneously, they had to balance their attention and care for Louis's brother, Harry, ensuring he received the love and support he needed during this challenging time.
In First Survivor: The Impossible Childhood Cancer Breakthrough, Mark Unger shares his family's heart-wrenching experience after his son Louis was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. The ordeal began when Mark's wife, Mary Ellen, noticed disturbing changes in Louis's behavior, including an unusual walk and a sudden quietness. Initially, pediatricians misdiagnosed Louis with Legg-Perthes disease, but as his condition deteriorated, he became increasingly lethargic and irritable and began taking daytime naps. After multiple visits to various doctors, the Ungers found themselves in a chaotic Children's Emergency Room, surrounded by a flurry of medical professionals and uncertainty, where they faced the devastating possibility that Louis might have leukemia.
Louis was a model patient, diligently following the doctors' advice and cooperating fully with his treatment. His bravery and sunny disposition won over the hearts of the medical team caring for him. Throughout his journey, his parents presented a united front, ensuring that Louis received the best possible care. At the same time, they also made sure to devote equal attention and love to his 5-year-old brother, Harry, balancing their care and support between the two siblings. I like everything about the book, and it is also error-free.
I found this book to be flawless and utterly captivating, as it recounts the unwavering dedication of parents fighting to save their son's life. Louis's courage in the face of agonizing treatments for neuroblastoma, including a devastating recurrence that spread to his brain, is a truly inspiring testament to his strength. The book poignantly notes that the intensity of Louis's treatment was so extreme that no adult could have endured it. I appreciated the author's thoughtful inclusion of each family member's perspective during this trying period, and it was heartwarming to see that Louis's recovery was always their top priority. It highlighted the family's unshakeable bond and devotion to each other as they stood together through thick and thin, their love and support for one another remaining steadfast and unrelenting.
I'm giving this book a stellar 5 out of 5 stars. It's a masterfully crafted and deeply emotional account of a young boy's triumphant fight against aggressive cancer. This inspiring story has the potential to offer solace and hope to numerous individuals facing similar challenges to Louis's. I highly recommend this book to parents who are caring for a child with neuroblastoma, as it provides a powerful and uplifting narrative that can help guide them through their own journey.
******
First Survivor
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
In 2001, on Thanksgiving Day, Louis received a devastating diagnosis of neuroblastoma at Yale, launching a prolonged and arduous journey of treatment. His parents, Mark Unger and Mary Ellen, embarked on a tireless mission to save their son, determinedly seeking out the best cancer care available. They engaged in numerous medical consultations, explored extensive research, and navigated the complexities of medical terminology to fight the disease afflicting their three-year-old child. Simultaneously, they had to balance their attention and care for Louis's brother, Harry, ensuring he received the love and support he needed during this challenging time.
In First Survivor: The Impossible Childhood Cancer Breakthrough, Mark Unger shares his family's heart-wrenching experience after his son Louis was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. The ordeal began when Mark's wife, Mary Ellen, noticed disturbing changes in Louis's behavior, including an unusual walk and a sudden quietness. Initially, pediatricians misdiagnosed Louis with Legg-Perthes disease, but as his condition deteriorated, he became increasingly lethargic and irritable and began taking daytime naps. After multiple visits to various doctors, the Ungers found themselves in a chaotic Children's Emergency Room, surrounded by a flurry of medical professionals and uncertainty, where they faced the devastating possibility that Louis might have leukemia.
Louis was a model patient, diligently following the doctors' advice and cooperating fully with his treatment. His bravery and sunny disposition won over the hearts of the medical team caring for him. Throughout his journey, his parents presented a united front, ensuring that Louis received the best possible care. At the same time, they also made sure to devote equal attention and love to his 5-year-old brother, Harry, balancing their care and support between the two siblings. I like everything about the book, and it is also error-free.
I found this book to be flawless and utterly captivating, as it recounts the unwavering dedication of parents fighting to save their son's life. Louis's courage in the face of agonizing treatments for neuroblastoma, including a devastating recurrence that spread to his brain, is a truly inspiring testament to his strength. The book poignantly notes that the intensity of Louis's treatment was so extreme that no adult could have endured it. I appreciated the author's thoughtful inclusion of each family member's perspective during this trying period, and it was heartwarming to see that Louis's recovery was always their top priority. It highlighted the family's unshakeable bond and devotion to each other as they stood together through thick and thin, their love and support for one another remaining steadfast and unrelenting.
I'm giving this book a stellar 5 out of 5 stars. It's a masterfully crafted and deeply emotional account of a young boy's triumphant fight against aggressive cancer. This inspiring story has the potential to offer solace and hope to numerous individuals facing similar challenges to Louis's. I highly recommend this book to parents who are caring for a child with neuroblastoma, as it provides a powerful and uplifting narrative that can help guide them through their own journey.
******
First Survivor
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon
Latest Review: Quando Dormo by Edward Izzi
