Review of First Survivor

[Chelsea Morgan 2]

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

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5 out of 5 stars

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First Survivor is a wonderfully written and beautifully edited account of a family’s first-hand experience with the diagnosis of cancer in their youngest child. The author (the father of the child diagnosed with neuroblastoma) does an excellent job of describing each major step and milestone in their devastating journey, from the first sign of medical concerns, through treatment, and beyond. The author's perspective offers a good balance of emotion and facts. Though a deeply personal account, the story also provides a great deal of factual information and a chronological account of events as they occurred for the family. The medical jargon that most individuals are unfamiliar with is clearly described, and a glossary of terms is included at the end of the book for quick reference or to serve as a memory refresher. Additionally, a brief timeline of medical events that occurred for the child, a brief history of medicine related to cancer, and neuroblastoma in particular, and a list of resources for family support are provided at the end of the book. In general, it is a good read for those unfamiliar with the world of cancer, as well as those who may have more personal experiences.

The author discusses various perspectives of the family's journey throughout the story. Although the book was written by the boy’s father, he also discusses the viewpoints of the mother and the boy’s older brother as they navigated the ordeal. I was hoping for some more in-depth explanations about the time spent as in-patient vs. out-patient, requirements of the family to uphold medical care at home, and side-effects of treatment, but that is a personal interest of mine as I seek a better understanding of the toll such an experience can take on families.

Ultimately, First Survivor is a story of hope and an inspiration to families to advocate and never stop fighting for their children. It is also a story of confidence in and collaboration with highly-esteemed medical systems. The author beautifully gives tribute to the medical professionals responsible for his son’s care, while also describing the research he did on his own and the team approach that he and his wife sought to obtain the best possible treatment and outcomes for their son. This is a position that many families may feel ill-equipped to take on, though this story may serve as encouragement and empowerment to do so.

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First Survivor
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