Review of First Survivor

[Ambar Gill]

[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 by Mark Unger.

I will admit, that I was hesitant to pick this book up, as I knew it would entail a massive emotional rollercoaster, but I am beyond happy that I finally gave it a go.

The book is about the story of little Louis Unger, diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, an incredibly invasive cancer, at the tender age of three. The book goes on to show a mother’s incredible love and care, a father whose unrelenting research and questions helped save his little boy, and a brother’s phenomenal support, all of which led to Louis’ incredible recovery.

There were so many things that I loved about this book. First and foremost, was the writing, which pulled me in right from the start, and made me feel like I was right in the hospital with them, waiting for test results and the long-hoped-for announcement of “cured”. I felt so unbelievably connected to the family, and what they were going through. Mark’s notes, which were added throughout the book, were insightful and helped me to understand a parental point of view of what it must be like to continually fight for a child going through Louis’ ordeal.

I also adored the emphasis that was put on the importance of Louis’ mother’s care and devotion, and the highlight that was made that mothers’ and women’s concerns, when it came to the field of medicine, were overlooked and labelled as “hysterical”. It made me respect Mark more, that he touched on this fact, having experienced it myself.

Probably the most important highlight, and the overarching theme of the whole book, is patient advocacy, something I couldn’t agree with more. To always ask questions to health care providers, and be given all up-to-date information to make appropriate decisions for the patient, was what led Louis to be a survivor. His parents never stopped learning, asking questions or researching, and it made such a massive difference for their little boy.

While the book is about an incredibly strong and joyful little boy, and his family’s journey with cancer; for me, the book was about hope. To never, ever give up. Even when things are bleak, and there seems to be no way forward, just say what the Ungers’ say “Today is a great day”, while hoping for a better tomorrow.

The book was phenomenal. I have nothing negative to say about it, which is why my rating is 5 out of 5 stars.

There were virtually no typos or grammatical errors, as the book seemed to be professionally edited, and is a suitable read for all ages.

While it targets families of cancer patients or patients themselves, I believe this book of hope can be enjoyed by everyone, and I recommend giving it a read.

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First Survivor
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

[David Samanthaa]

Mark Unger’s First Survivor is a testament to the power of hope and perseverance. The story of young Louis overcoming neuroblastoma is both heartbreaking and inspiring.