Review of First Survivor

Post by **Seetha E** » 19 Oct 2023, 12:07

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

5 out of 5 stars

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A book with a captivating cover featuring little Louis and the title First Survivor has been on my to-read list for quite some time. I had put off reading the book because I knew it would be an emotional roller coaster. I'm glad I got started on it this morning. The prelude informs the reader that Louis Unger is ill and diagnosed with a terrible disease with no hope of survival. His father, Mark Unger, goes to great lengths to ensure the best care possible and shares the following message: "There are no dead ends, only new paths."

Louis's mother, Mary Ellen, notices something strange about the way Louis walks. The mother's intuition led to doctor appointments, and a battery of tests and scans confirmed stage 4 neuroblastoma in 2001. Things only got worse after the initial heart-breaking news. The parents did not receive enough time to recuperate from their shock. While Louis's mother assumed full-time caregiving duties, his father went into research mode to guarantee their son had the best possible chance at survival. Louis had to endure a slew of invasive procedures and the horrifying side effects of the treatments. The family remained focused until the end. Louis's father, Mark Unger, has authored the book First Survivor. It documents Louis's inspiring 7-year journey.

I admire the parents' courage and attitude during the entire period. I can only imagine the plethora of emotions the parents may experience in such moments. Yet they did not drown themselves in sadness or allow the famous hospitals and doctors' qualifications to overpower them. They constantly kept tabs on the day-to-day happenings. As a result, they could point out when something was amiss with their son or with the treatment administered. The practice of carrying a list of questions is a valuable input. I abide by it, as it assists all involved parties.

The personal notes and charts proved useful in comprehending the medical process. According to the author, the healthcare staff is also human and can make mistakes. The author advises us to exercise caution and remain alert to ensure informed participation in patient care. I agree with both of these practices too. Many such excellent lessons are listed in the book's closing section.

The book had medical terminology, as expected. I like how the author included a glossary at the end of the book with brief explanations of all the terms used. The ease with which I could refer to any term helped to keep up the reading pace. Overall, I believe the book was well-written in terms of literary style and structure since it accurately conveyed all the vulnerabilities and emotions.

A picture is worth a thousand words. The photographs from time to time kept me connected to Louis through the various stages of his treatment. The group photos also heightened the emotional impact.

There was nothing negative to mention in the book. I did encounter a few errors while reading. However, as they did not interfere with my reading experience, they do not warrant a lower rating. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars for all the positive reasons mentioned above.

Families and patients in similar situations, particularly younger ones, will find hope and inspiration. It will also assist families in navigating such trying times. There are numerous resources available to help readers advocate for their patients. It is unquestionably a book that families in similar situations should read. It is also food for thought for the medical community.

******
First Survivor
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Post by **Sarah Zain** » 25 Oct 2023, 15:28

If the book is full of overwhelming emotions, Your review conveyed those feelings wonderfully. One of the harshest difficulties that a family may experience, the way they overcome it deserves to be in a book to read. A wonderful and distinctive review Seetha

Enjani Matendeko · Post by **Enjani Matendeko** » 27 Nov 2023, 13:49

Niching Up is a unique and intriguing guide to a successful business. It was new to me to get to know that focusing on one particular area in business could be profitable.

Grace Jane · Post by **Grace Jane** » 01 Sep 2024, 22:22

A truly inspiring and unforgettable story.

Chi Chiu Michael Mak · Post by **Chi Chiu Michael Mak** » 05 Jun 2025, 10:53

Seetha E wrote: ↑19 Oct 2023, 12:07 [Following is a volunteer review of "First Survivor" by Mark Unger.]

5 out of 5 stars
Share This Review

A book with a captivating cover featuring little Louis and the title First Survivor has been on my to-read list for quite some time. I had put off reading the book because I knew it would be an emotional roller coaster. I'm glad I got started on it this morning. The prelude informs the reader that Louis Unger is ill and diagnosed with a terrible disease with no hope of survival. His father, Mark Unger, goes to great lengths to ensure the best care possible and shares the following message: "There are no dead ends, only new paths."

Louis's mother, Mary Ellen, notices something strange about the way Louis walks. The mother's intuition led to doctor appointments, and a battery of tests and scans confirmed stage 4 neuroblastoma in 2001. Things only got worse after the initial heart-breaking news. The parents did not receive enough time to recuperate from their shock. While Louis's mother assumed full-time caregiving duties, his father went into research mode to guarantee their son had the best possible chance at survival. Louis had to endure a slew of invasive procedures and the horrifying side effects of the treatments. The family remained focused until the end. Louis's father, Mark Unger, has authored the book First Survivor. It documents Louis's inspiring 7-year journey.

I admire the parents' courage and attitude during the entire period. I can only imagine the plethora of emotions the parents may experience in such moments. Yet they did not drown themselves in sadness or allow the famous hospitals and doctors' qualifications to overpower them. They constantly kept tabs on the day-to-day happenings. As a result, they could point out when something was amiss with their son or with the treatment administered. The practice of carrying a list of questions is a valuable input. I abide by it, as it assists all involved parties.

The personal notes and charts proved useful in comprehending the medical process. According to the author, the healthcare staff is also human and can make mistakes. The author advises us to exercise caution and remain alert to ensure informed participation in patient care. I agree with both of these practices too. Many such excellent lessons are listed in the book's closing section.

The book had medical terminology, as expected. I like how the author included a glossary at the end of the book with brief explanations of all the terms used. The ease with which I could refer to any term helped to keep up the reading pace. Overall, I believe the book was well-written in terms of literary style and structure since it accurately conveyed all the vulnerabilities and emotions.

A picture is worth a thousand words. The photographs from time to time kept me connected to Louis through the various stages of his treatment. The group photos also heightened the emotional impact.

There was nothing negative to mention in the book. I did encounter a few errors while reading. However, as they did not interfere with my reading experience, they do not warrant a lower rating. I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars for all the positive reasons mentioned above.

Families and patients in similar situations, particularly younger ones, will find hope and inspiration. It will also assist families in navigating such trying times. There are numerous resources available to help readers advocate for their patients. It is unquestionably a book that families in similar situations should read. It is also food for thought for the medical community.

******
First Survivor
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

For people struggling with seemingly insurmountable diseases, either themselves or their relatives/family, First Survivor offers a glimmer of hope. I hope this book is available for me to read here!

Post by **Anu Anand** » 05 Jul 2025, 07:05

I’ve come across many reviews of this book, and I was hesitant to read it for the same reason you mentioned. Thank you for sharing this amazing review. @Seetha E
The family’s strength, especially their proactive approach, is remarkable. Hope to read it soon.