Review of First Survivor

[Emeka JohnObi]

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

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5 out of 5 stars

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This book chronicles the inspiring battle of Louis, the author's son, against the aggressive childhood cancer neuroblastoma. Diagnosed at the young age of three with the cancer already affecting his brain, Louis faced a grim outlook. Yet his family, doctors, and friends became a united front, fiercely determined to find a cure. The following seven years were an arduous odyssey filled with countless, often agonizing, treatments. Each one, however, was a crucial step in Louis' remarkable journey to remission.

A subtle shift in Louis's walk triggered a mother's intuition in Mary Ellen. Doctor visits and a battery of tests confirmed her worst fear: stage 4 neuroblastoma in 2001. The diagnosis shattered their world. They were thrown into a whirlwind as Mary Ellen became Louis's constant caregiver. Determined to fight for their son, Louis's father, Mark Unger, embarked on a relentless quest for the best treatment options. Louis's young life became a relentless battle against the disease, enduring painful procedures and the harsh side effects of treatment. Unger documented this remarkable seven-year journey in his book, First Survivor.

This book was a real winner. The glossary was fantastic; whenever I hit an unfamiliar term, I could quickly find it and keep reading without skipping a beat. The author's writing was not only clear and well-structured, but it also powerfully conveyed the characters' emotions and vulnerabilities. It's honestly hard to find any fault with this book!

This incredible book is a must-read, earning a solid rating of 5 out of 5 stars. It's a powerful and inspiring story that doesn't shy away from the brutal realities of childhood cancer. Louis' treatments were horrifically difficult, leaving a mark on him and his family. The author doesn't hold back on the raw emotions and challenges they faced, making the story incredibly honest and touching. Excellent editing keeps the narrative flowing. Louis' story is a beacon of hope for anyone battling childhood cancer and a true inspiration for anyone facing hardship or needing a boost of encouragement.

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First Survivor
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