Tuesday, October 06, 2009

A Book Review: Perseverance


Perseverance True Voices of Cancer Survivors by Carolyn Rubenstein

When I received this book, all I could think about was how many cancer survivors I know. AND THEN, I realized these were all people who survived cancer as children and I thought WOW. I don't really know anyone who has gone through that. I then marveled at how much different that would be. I started reading the book and really wondered why God had brought this particular book into my life. It was encouraging for sure but I could not even think of anyone I could pass it along to.

The plot thickens a bit as my little cousin Wayd gets sick, is transported to Vanderbilt and is diagnosed with leukemia. OUCH. I preferred not knowing anyone. I will be passing along this encouraging book to his mom. I hope it will serve as a life preserver to her as they fight the good fight. Sometimes it just helps to know others have been where you are and they made it out to the other side.

I was mesmerized as I read through these stories. It was so amazing to see how strong these survivors are. How all of them had one thing in common...they were grateful cancer happened to them, despite all the pain, because it made them better people. It gave them a greater appreciation of life, people and a positive outlook on everything.

The author of this book allowed each survivor to pen their own story. She prefaces each story with how and when she met them and also why she is including their story. The rawness, the open honesty contained in these stories is a must read for anyone who has a cancer survivor in their life. I laughed, I cried, I experienced a roller-coaster of emotions. This is what life is about. There is nothing like flirting with death to make you lose all your pretense.

I highly recommend this book. It is a story of triumph. It is an example that attitude is everything. Health should not be taken for granted. Obstacles are meant to be overcome.

Keep the Kleenex box handy, especially if someone close to you is battling for his life.

2 comments:

Hula Girl at Heart said...

Did you hear? Wayd got to come home!

Anonymous said...

I didn't know you were related to Wayd. Are you coming to Waydstock? It is at RES on October 24 from 10-4. It will be a carnival type extravaganza. Everyone that can needs to come out and support Wayd! All the proceeds will go to the family. Stephaine and Michael only have so much paid leave, so they need all the help they can get.

Angy Williams