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Customer Reviews (28)

Excellent reference book, but...
This is an excellent reference book, but if you are a mom like me who wants to know what likely 'caused' this disease, I highly recommend you read 'Currents of Death' by Paul Brodeur. Chances are you and your child are living in the first or second home closest to an electrical transformer (mounted on a utility pole outside) or you're living within two homes of an electrical substation. Please research this for yourself...

Very Helpfl and honest
i purchased this for my co-worker whose 11 year old daughter was diagnosed with leuikemia - it has been very helpful and is a must have for anyone going through this

Childhood Leukemia - excellent resource
If you are in the sad position to need facts about childhood leukemia this book is an excellent reference and has been highly recommended by many doctors.It is well referenced, easily understood and will give you much of the information you need to walk this [sad, anxiety laden, tear-filled] path with your family and friends.

Childhood Leukemia
A great help.Full of factual information and practical tips from parents who've "been there."It's a valuable resource for those of us who have a child who has been diagnosed with leukemia.

A "Must-Have" for the family
I was loaned the 2nd Edition in the hospital after our son was diagnosed with ALL.This book is so valuable to the family to help you learn and weather through all the processes you could face during this difficult time.I knew I had to have my own copy and bought a second copy of the 3rd edition to share with other families through the hospital.Many other members of our family intend to buy their own copies of the book as well.

If you are hungry for information, buy this book.It calmed my nerves and made me a better team member in my son's fight against cancer. ... Read more

Product Description
Johns Hopkins Patients' Guide to Leukemia is a concise, easy-to-follow how to guide that puts you on a path to wellness by explaining leukemia treatment from start to finish. It guides you through the overwhelming maze of treatment decisions, simplifies the complicated schedule that lies ahead, and performs the task of putting together your plan of care in layman s terms. Empower yourself with accurate, understandable information that will give you the ability to confidently participate in the decision making about your care and treatment. ... Read more

Product Description

Recent advances in molecular and cellular biology techniques have significantly improved our ability to detect, monitor, model and study the underlying molecular basis and pathogenesis of leukemia, yet we are still in an early discovery stage and much more work is needed in order to develop better strategies to diagnose, classify and treat this biologically and clinically diverse disease. In Leukemia: Methods and Protocols, expert researchers bring together a wide range of state-of-the-art laboratory methods and detailed protocols that are useful for both clinical and basic research scientists working on the disease. The volume provides techniques for prenatal backtracking of leukemic clone, molecular diagnosis, detection of genome-wide genetic abnormalities and profiling, identification of unknown fusion genes, monitoring of minimal residual diseases, disease modeling using murine and human primary hematopoietic cells, studying of normal and malignant hematopoiesis, identification of interacting partners with leukemia associated oncoproteins, and global characterization of genome-wide epigenetic changes in leukemic cells. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology™ series format, the convenient chapters contain brief introductions, lists of the necessary materials, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols, and notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.

Comprehensive and cutting-edge, Leukemia: Methods and Protocols will help researchers to advance knowledge and have a better understanding of the disease, which will ultimately facilitate development of anti-cancer therapy and improve quality of life for patients.

Product Description
For the tens of thousands of Americans with adult leukemia, the condition, which is really a group of diseases, is often a baffling one for patients and families to understand, and finding targeted information on individual conditions can be difficult.In straightforward language, Adult Leukemia: A Comprehensive Guide for Patients and Families addresses:

Diagnosis and medical testsFinding a good oncologistTreatmentsSide effectsEmotional responses to diagnosis, treatment, remission, possible recurrenceGetting support from your family, friends, employers, and the broader community

Customer Reviews (13)

Excellent Overview of CLL
First, a note:I knew Barbara Lackritz AKA GrannyBarb.She was a tireless advocate for patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia.She spoke at numerous patient's meetings, presented to groups of doctors, and fielded many, many questions from caregivers and patients concerning this disease.

The book GrannyBarb wrote is an excellent overview of CLL.It includes an overview of the disease, symptoms, potential treatments, possible side effects, and what to expect when the disease progresses.It is very well written and covers more than the basics one might pick up from the Web.This is one strength of the book: it distills all that is known about the disease and covers ground that is probably available on the Web, but can be very easily overlooked.GrannyBarb puts all of it together in an interesting and easy to read book.

Since GrannyBarb is no longer with us, sadly, the book may not be updated.With the pace of research into this and other leukemias in high gear, there are now more treatments available, and in clinical trials, than when she wrote the book.On the other hand, pretty much all of the mainstream treatments that a patient is likely to run into are covered in the book.

Highly recommended.If you are a patient, or a caregiver, there is no better book than this to give you the 'lay of the land'.

BTW, to the reviewer who was disappointed because AML wasn't covered in this book, well, that's because the book isn't about AML!Geesh!I suppose I could complain that the book didn't cover model railroading, either, but it isn't a legitimate complaint, to my mind.

If you have CLL, get this book. If you have AML, get a different book!

The answers to a serious, life threatening disease
I have a friend who has a family history of this disease. He wanted the most current information so I ordered it for him and he found it very valuable.

Doc

aduklt leukemia
This book has been so helpful. My best friends daughter was diagnosed 2 years ago and this book has helped me help them a lot. Thank you.

Could be better
Having been dx'd with AML I wanted a comprehensive but understandable text to keep near by and refer to as the situation warranted.At first I found it helpdul but then I had more complex questions and the answers were not there.Specifically I needed a better explanation of all the CD's and their effect , affect, I never know which to use, on my leukemia.I also needed much more information on blasts and what different levels indicate.I felt that side effects of chemo anddrugs needed to be addressed more thoroughly, and GVHD certainly needed much more space.
I would say this is a fine starting point but does not have all the answers.Oh, I found the anecdotes nothing but space wasting

The Author Speaks
Dear Readers,

This book was written to ensure that there was information available that we could relate to and understand.I"m glad to know that others are finding what they need in the book.We also invite you to join us on one of the free hematological cancer support lists at the Association of Cancer Online Resources (ACOR).

Thank you for reading and for purchasing this book.I do hope it meets your needs. ... Read more

Product Description
One year after relocating to the New York area to pursue an acting career, Deborah Ludwig's acting dreams were shattered by a leukemia diagnosis, forcing her to come to terms with her past and face her present reality. Her sister Barbara, pregnant with her second child, was Deborah's bone marrow donor. Pregnancy is thought to be an absolute contraindication to bone marrow donation, but the inclusion of Barbara's courageous and poignant tale disproves this belief. Rebirth is Deborah's year-long journal chronicling a story of love, sacrifice, heartache, and discovery that culminated in her physical, emotional, and spiritual rebirth. For further information: ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Rebirth is a Must Read!
I am finished with Rebirth!I did not want it to end though...it really is wonderful!

Rebirth is Deborah Ludwig's year long journey of survival. Having been diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia in December 2003, she must put her life and dreams on hold as she focuses on immediate and then longterm survival. She shares every aspect of this journey in a personal, courageous, and heartfelt way, using journaling as her means of coping with her every day struggle.

I know that I will be referring to it probably everyday!Rebirth offers great advice, insight, motivation, and support for anyone dealing with a catastophic disease on every page!

Actually, this book offers all that for everyone, no matter who they are or what they are dealing with.
I absolutely am looking forward to Deborah's next book!Thank you Deborah, for sharing your experiences with everyone. It offers readers hope, comfort, advice, and so much more!

Rebirth gives birth to a wonderful writer
A small-town girl who goes to the Big Apple to pursue her acting dreams has to slam on the brakes of her aspirations way too soon when diagnosed with leukemia. Deborah Ludwig's memoir is a well-written, inspiring read. This woman has guts, not only for facing down her disease, but sharing her personal journal of that time period with readers in an unflinching, brutally honest way. It's a book filled with great heart and hope that, immediately upon finishing it, makes you want to share it with those in your community who have the same disease. It also shows how a solid support group of friends and family--and sometimes strangers--plays a big role in a person's survival. Ludwig's calling to be an actress soon becomes secondary to an even greater calling: to help others diagnosed with leukemia maintain a positive spirit necessary to cope with and ultimately beat the disease.

An insider's story of surviving cancer treatment
First, a confession: I know this author slightly - she directed me in a play several years ago.
Deb Ludwig shares her journal for a year, starting with her leukemia diagnosis, through chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant. This means we get her feelings day-to-day, not as she looks back on the experience from some later time. We see emotional highs and lows, and her discovery of a network of people who step up to support her when she needs it.
I ordered a second copy for the family of one of my cousins, who is currently undergoing treatment for a different kind of cancer. I thought it would be helpful to them to see what another person felt at various stages of treatment - probably many of the same things my cousin feels and thinks, but might be reluctant to talk about.

What an Inspiration!
Deborah Ludwig's "Rebirth" is phenomenal! Inspirational and deeply personal, the author effortlessly shares her innermost thoughts about her battle with leukemia, in such a way that you find yourself cheering her on from one journal entry to the next. You're pulling for her to respond favorably to the myriad medications, hoping the results of her latest blood work allow her to continue moving forward in treatment, and deeply moved when she or they do not. At the same time, she weaves in medical terminology that anyone with such a diagnosis must learn - allowing the reader to gain insight into the foreign, tumultuous world of chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant.

From the very first entry, you're engaged with the author's drive and desire to win over Leukemia - realizing the self-exploration and awareness that must occur along the way. As she chronicles her yearlong battle, the profundity of what she faces sets in. In addition to juggling her finances, her plans for a career, and getting on with everyday life - she's fighting for her life, one day at a time. What an amazing journey - enlightening, insightful, and moving - a must-read for anyone struggling with a life-threatening illness or for those trying to support a loved one through the ordeal.

~June Fraser's Rebirth Rave~
To know Deborah personally is truly an honor and a huge blessing.The song lyric, "A Hundred Little Miracles Are Happening Everyday" (from the Flower Drum Song movie) is the closest description of how I picture her.To interact with this "Miracle" almost on a daily basis gives much more meaning to life after reading "Rebirth."How many times has anyone of us encountered a cancer survivor?The answer to that question has made me much more humble and much more appreciative for the little things in life I took for granted.Deborah is my daily reminder! Her passion to help others who are suffering through the same ordeal is absolutely amazing and has become her calling.She has touched my life in a profound way and I can guarantee that she will touch yours.They say miracles will overtake you.Deborah's "Rebirth" surely will.To Life Deborah, Blessings & Love, June ... Read more

Product Description
A comprehensive and critical review of the latest scientific advances in our understanding of the molecular genetics and biology of CLL and their application to the best management of CLL. The authors focus on diagnosis, prognosis, multifaceted treatment options, and complications. Among the diverse treatments considered are chemotherapy, autologous and allogenic transplantations, monoclonal antibody therapy, immunotoxin therapy, gene therapy, and several new therapeutic strategies. Familial and juvenile chronic lymphocytic leukemia are also discussed. ... Read more

Product Description
The second edition of this beautifully-illustrated oncology text is even better than the first.It offers a basic, medically accurate explanation of all phases of leukemia--including the biology of the disease, its causes and effects, and therapeutic modalities.YOU AND LEUKEMIA was written to help patients and families live with the illness, and answers many questions that patients and parents "were afraid to ask, or didn't ask" the doctor at the time of diagnosis or initial treatment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A must have for Leukemia parents
I read this book 20 years ago when my son was treated for ALL, it helped both me and him go through those difficult times, it explains the treatment process, and addresses all the thoughts that go over our minds ("why me?", "was it my fault?", "what are my chances?").The cartoons are nice for kids and help them understand what is going on.I can not thank enough Dr. Baker for this remarkable book.

Excellent Resource
I highly recommend this book for any family going thru Leukemia. When my friends little boy was diagnosed 1 week ago with leukemia, I set out immediatley to find a book written for children that would explain to this little boy what was happening to him. I found and read a few good books on this topic, but this one is by far the best one I found. It is very thorough, but explained well. Every family going thru Leukemia, should have this book. It was also helpful for my own children so that they too could understand what is happening to their friend.

an outstanding introduction to leukemia for all ages
Recently,my six year old daughterwas diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia.Her doctor immediately gave us a copy of You and Leukemia.As a beginning reference, the book helped to explain the terms, challenges and struggle we were about to face.I have purchased copies for all of the family members so that everyone can begin to understand leukemia. Writing in a thorough but simple manner, Baker has produced an important resources for patients and their relatives. ... Read more

Product Description

Written by authors from the world’s most prominent cancer centers, Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia supplies a comprehensive, up-to-date picture of CLL and how to better treat patients inflicted with the disease.

Product Description
This book presents recent and important research on Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (or 'chronic lymphoid leukemia'), known for short as CLL, which is a type of leukemia in which too many lymphocytes are produced. Although the malignant lymphocytes in CLL may look normal and mature, they are not and these cells may not cope effectively with infection. CLL is the most common form of leukemia in adults. Men are twice as likely to develop CLL as women. However, the key risk factor is age; over 75 percent of new cases are diagnosed in patients over age 50. ... Read more

Product Description

Childhood cancer, particularly leukemia, is on the rise. Leukemia strikes one child in every 25,000, and most often does so between the ages of 3 and 7. Annually, more than 2,700 children are diagnosed with leukemia in the United States. Due to advances in biotechnology and medicine, survival rates for this once-deadly disease now stand at 80%. But the psychological effects of diagnosis, removal from school, treatment, and remission or cure, linger. Here nine long-term survivors of childhood leukemia share their vivid memories and give us insight into the physiological changes, psychosocial and educational difficulties that became a constant shadow in their lives. Author Nanci Sullivan provides recommendations for ways teachers, counselors and other professionals may better help young students with leukemia cope.

Customer Reviews (2)

Life Follows Leukemia
As more and more children survive leukemia, parents, teachers and the medical profession will need to understand and be prepared for the aftermath of the disease. This very readable book, a result of qualitative research, covers 9 survivor stories with diagnosis dating from 1966-1985. Now adults, the survivors reflect on their memories of diagnosis, treatment and living with the consequences of therapy side effects. The author's aim is to illustrate the educational difficulties post treatment and the impact of school (or absence of school) during treatment and later years. Educators need to be added to the medical/parental team as a resource and strength in the child's progression of diagnosis to survival. It is always best to hear first hand from those who go through treatment to potentially make changes for the benefit of the patient. As a pediatric oncology nurse, I have seen the positive effects of the hopefulness and priority of education to hospitalized children. Child life therapy is another bonus offered in larger treatment centers.

An additional plus to the book is the various comprehensive appendices regarding bibliotherapy (with age recommendations), video and internet sites for children, bereavement and resources for parents. A glossary of medical terms and explanations of blood tests (which become a new short hand language for families) aids the non-medical reader. Lastly, multiple listings of support organizations for families, financial assistance, transportation needs, clinical trial web sites and bone marrow information complete this terrific book. Any parent, educator (in the course of a 40 year career a teacher can expect to have an average of 4 students with cancer), psychologist, medical social worker, etc. will find this book useful.

A Must Read
When a child is sick with leukemia everyone's focus is on surviving. That is paramount.This book tells us what happens in the other areas of their lives once they do survive, and that becomes paramount.We should study the lives of these survivors to learn what we can to address these kids' needs more effectively.This book is filled with priceless insights that current kids who are surviving leukemia will wish we had studied with great commitment.

I suspect that others with different chronic health issues may be able to identify with the struggles of those in this book. ... Read more

Product Description
A young girl receives injections of chemotherapy to kill the cancerous white blood cells in her body. An eleven-year-old boy undergoes a transplant of stem cells to help his body make new, healthy blood cells. A new machine gives scientists a way to quickly check for and diagnose leukemia.That's powerful medicine! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

This is a marvelously informative book about leukemia and two children who survived this life-threatening disease!
Eleven-year-old Paul Luisi had come down with some "flulike symptoms" and had a stiff neck.It didn't seem like much to worry about, but when he didn't improve his mother took him back to the doctor to further investigate his symptoms.Likewise, little Bianca, came down with a simple case of tonsillitis.Her doctor gave her some medication to help improve her symptoms, but when she got worse her mother took her back to her doctor for a closer look.Both children were eventually diagnosed with leukemia.Paul had myelogenous leukemia and Bianca had lymphocytic leukemia.

Both of their families would soon learn that "leukemia is the name for different kinds of cancers that affect the body's blood cells."In this book you will learn many things about leukemia and you'll get to follow both children through their treatment.A cancer is when certain types of cells multiply "out of control."We have three kinds of blood cells: "red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets."In leukemia there are not enough blood cells (erythrocytes) and platelets (thrombocytes), yet there are "too many white blood cells" (leukocytes) as they have multiplied too quickly.You'll learn about the function of each of these cells and what happens when production went awry in Paul and Bianca.

In order to be able to treat children easily "Doctors often install a special device through the chest wall of a leukemia patient. . .[that] connects to one of the main veins leading into the heart."Although treatment was different for each child, they both needed strong drug doses "to quickly wipe out the leukemic cells."You'll learn about some of the unpleasant side effects they had to endure, the goal of chemotherapy, why they needed transfusions, you'll learn about blood typing, why people lose their hair during treatment, you'll learn about the blood brain barrier, the three phases of chemotherapy, how long treatment is, you'll learn about stem cell transplants, and you'll get to see and learn about many other facets of the disease and its treatment.Best of all, you'll get to see how Paul and Bianca are doing today!

This is a marvelously informative book about leukemia and two children who survived this life-threatening disease.The book is very informative and uses the proper terminology for things such as blood cells, something I always appreciate in a text of this nature.It is not alarmist, but rather upbeat and promising.There are photographs of when the children are undergoing treatment and/or are experiencing troublesome side effects.For example, there is a photograph of Bianca when she is suffering a terrible facial rash.In addition to the photographs of the children as they journey through this illness, there are some stunning microphotographs, interesting and informative sidebars, and a diagram of the skeletal system where red marrow can be found.In the back of the book is an index, a glossary, a list of support organizations, and additional recommended book and website resources to explore. ... Read more

Product Description
EMPOWER YOURSELF!Whether You’Re A Newly Diagnosed Leukemia Patient, A Survivor, Or A Friend Or Relative Of Either, This Book Offers Help. The Only Text To Provide The Doctor And Patient’S View, 100 Questions & Answers About Leukemia, Second Edition Gives You An Updated And Authoritative Practical Answers To Your Questions About Treatment Options, Post-Treatment Quality Of Life, Sources Of Support, And Much More. Written By A Leukemia Survivor And A Prominent Physician Specializing In Treatment Of Leukemia, This Book Is An Invaluable Resource For Anyone Coping With The Physical And Emotional Turmoil Of This Frightening Disease. ... Read more

Product Description

A brand-new edition of the bestselling guide to hematologic malignancies.

An international team of contributors come together to present all clinically relevant aspects of leukemias, lymphomas, and myelomas. Using clear terminology, the book discusses salient features, diagnostic procedures, prognosis, and treatments for these cancers.

Following on the successful steps of the first edition, this Second Edition covers:

• various types of leukemias, lymphomas, and myelomas
• utilizing stem cell transplantation
• side-effects of various treatments
• future prospects for leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma
• targeted therapies and history of the cancers
• information and support sources for patients

Product Description

Customer Reviews (4)

Dealing with a life-threatening illness
The story of Dani's fight against leukemia is more than just a written history of her battle.Sue and Jay Shotel give practical advice that can be used by families dealing with any type of life-threatening illness.Three years ago my oldest daughter was diagnosed with cancer.I wish that I had found the insight shared by Sue and Jay in their book back then.My daughter is presently cancer free but faced major complications. I know we would have handled her treatment differently if we had read how the Shotels dealt with some of their unfortunate medical experiences during Dani's treatment.

My family met Dani when my daughter joined a fastpitch softball league that was coached by Jay Shotel with Dani as one of the star pitchers.You wouldn't believe the power behind her small stature.However, as you will see from this book, Dani's strength from the ballfield to life's battlefield is truly inspiring.I have passed this book on to several friends who have been awed by Dani's courage.Although you wouldn't think this book would be a page turner, you will be surprised as your interest in Dani's life will force you to keep reading.The value of reading this book is profound.A "must" read.

A Page Turner!
How can a book filled with medical terms and pharmacological interventions be a page turner?How can the chronicling of a young woman's sudden bad luck (leukemia) be a story full of laughter, joyful tears, and renewed faith in our common humanity? Well, thanks to the talents, love, and devotion of an amazing family, Dani's story is all of that and so much more.

Dani, a young, beautiful, and revered teacher, is the heroine.Though not a big woman, she has managed by sheer determination to become a star college fastball pitcher.Her perfect life is attacked by leukemia - so suddenly, so much like the intrusion by a thief in the night.Sue, Dani's mother, is herself a life long educator as is her professor husband, Jay.Now in the blink of an eye, they must respond as a team to save a life so cherished.Jay, ever the academic, fields the research arm of things.What is this cancer?What are the options?Who in medicine is best equipped to join the effort?Jay acts quickly and stays on task.From Virginia's Hospital Center Oncology Wing to Seattle's Cancer Care Alliance, Jay searches medicine's vanguard for a way to confront a leukemia known as AML (acute myelogenous leukemia).And then, Jay spearheads the search for a willing human being somewhere on this vast planet - a human being with a one-in-a-billion genetic makeup and a generous heart to match.The searching circle of love spreads faster than any cancer.Family, friends, educators, and even a professional basketball team join the desperate search.

Sue utilizes her sharpened administrative skills to keep Jay's research focused on practical and timely initiatives.She becomes a fixture in Dani's hospital room and oversees every medical intervention at the point of delivery - every pill, every enema, every blood draw.Sue records all, each day, each hour, each human contact.Is she meddling? Yes.Is her heart full of love and appreciation for the doctors, nurses, and oncology staff at both ends of the country?Most certainly.

In Virginia the love team includes Sue's sister Carol and her pharmacist husband, Bruce, as well as friends and countless professional colleagues.In Seattle by serendipity the family is joined by son Micah and his Microsoft colleagues and friends.And in Germany there is a young man.He is not Jewish and he is not of Eastern European stock.He should not be a likely donor.However, an incident in his young life causes him to have a likely donor's heart.

There is a wedding in this story, a most beautiful wedding between a Christian man of unbelievable and much tested devotion and a Jewish princess, a real Jewish princess.At the wedding a guest from a far off land is finally united with his new family.Talk about love!Talk about love!You'll have to read It's Good To Know A Miracle for yourself.Oh, and all those medical terms and pharmacological interventions, they're nicely displayed and explained for all those with interest.Dani's Story is not just for those dealing with cancer.It is for all of us who again desire to be refreshed by the beauty inherent in the human spirit.

A roadmap for patient, families, and friends
I found this to be a very easy to read book on a very serious subject.I would highly recommend this book for patients as well as families and friends of patients undergoing treatment for this disease or any of the related cancers.Although the emphasis was heavier on the emotional aspects of facing and treating this disease, I found the medical information on acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) presented in basic, easy-to-understand terms and very clear. While this is the story of one person's fight against disease, it also provides a practical roadmap for others facing a similar battle. The information and resources listed in the back of the book are fantastic and perhaps the best reason to read this book.

A Miracle Takes Hard Work!
Did you ever think about what would happen to your life and those of your loved ones if someone in your immediate family had a life and death crisis? I honestly never did because that's the kind of thing that "only happens to other people," but after reading It's Good to Know a Miracle:Dani's Story, I truly understand that it can happen to anyone of us. This powerful memoir tells the story of a vibrant 26 year old woman who is a caring special education teacher and an exceptional athlete, who had recently started dating her future husband, when she was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). Within approximately a week of the onset of the symptoms, Dani's world and the people in it had their lives changed forever. This book enables the reader to follow Dani's life from the diagnosis of AML to a successful bone marrow transplant. It is the combination of a human interest story and medical facts and informationthat adds to the uniqueness of this book.

In the prologue, we learn about Dani's life before AML so that you get to know her as a young person who is already contributing to society and dreaming of becoming a wife and mother. Then in the first few chapters, the reader experiences the shock of the diagnosis (it began with a simple sore throat) and the speed with which medical decisions had to be made. It was so difficult to imagine what it must have been like teaching in your classroom one day and fighting for your life the next. However, through the integration of memories written by Dani and her parents, detailed daily journal notes which included conversations with medical personnel, emails from friends and family, and excerpts from a website about Dani which was created by her brother, I truly felt as if I were living this incredible experience. Unlike only diary entries, this combination of a variety of sources and points of view made for interesting and informative reading.

The range of emotions experienced by the reader, including hope, is one of the strengths of this book. Reading the many emails of support and encouragement which were sent to Dani by her friends and family (and even people who didn't know her personally)was uplifting. What was especially impressive was reading about the many ways people worked together to help in other concrete ways such as organizing fundraising and bone marrow drive events and donating frequent flyer miles so that her dad and boyfriend could visit her in Seattle where the transplant took place (everyone lived on the East coast). There were many opportunities provided, large and small, for people of all ages to be involved in this fight against AML. The most emotional moment of all comes when Dani and her donor, a 30 year old man from Germany (he was a one in an eight million match!), finally communicate with each other (they had to wait two years according to the rules and regulations). Their emails make you laugh (they both have a wonderful sense of humor) and cry and when he arrives in the United States to attend Dani's wedding, the feelings of elation gave me goose bumps. I actually felt like I was in the middle of their hug at their first meeting at the airport!

The structure of this book enables you to step in and out of the book, that is, at times I was engrossed in the human feelings of the people and what was happening to them but at other times I was an objective reader learning information about this disease. For example,I learned how Dani used what she knew about training as an athlete to fight AML. In addition, there is a lot of technical vocabulary relating to medicines and procedures which is necessary to understand. The words are printed in bold type with a quick definition within the text and highlighted in a gray box on the same page with a more in-depth explanation. Another feature, which was most informative and practical, was the appendix which included "Lessons We Have Learned," how to organize and publicize bone marrow drives and fundraising events, the purpose and design of a website, organizations that provide support for families, and how to be an advocate when dealing with insurance companies. This beneficial section is what you will remember if you are ever faced with such a life-altering experience.

Can your world be turned upside down but have a happy ending? Can a "global village" unite to save one person? Reading about the Shotel family's journey to survive AML is a heartfelt account which will have you saying, "It's Good to Know a Miracle." ... Read more

Product Description
From the original publisher, Alfred A. Knopf...

In this extraordinary chronicle, Terry Pringle, telling of his four-year-old son's battle with leukemia, so fully captures this "ordinary" child's achievement of amazing courage and grace that his book transcends its burden of pain to fill us with wonder and pride at the gallantry of which the human spirit is capable.

From reviews...

"Pringle has balanced his account perfectly.He employs neither sympathy-card sentimentality nor gruesome close-up."--Time Magazine

"A profoundly stirring book, This Is the Child is one of the finer contributions to inspirational literature."--Dallas Morning News

"With this book Pringle has clearly found his professional calling.We'll hear from him again.But life will never serve the writer with a more heartfelt story."--Texas Monthly

"This Is the Child is a story of victory of courage over fear, peace over turmoil, spirit over flesh."--New York Times Book Review

"The reader experiences a wonderful feeling of elation at the indomitability of the human spirit." --Fort Worth Star-Telegram


... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Get the tissues ready!!
I read this book in 1 day because I could not put it down!From the 1st sentence, the author captivated me and made me feel part of his family through the end.The story is heart-warming and heart-wrenching at the same time.It is extremely well-written and shows the family with all of their flaws as well as their great strengths.I could not stop crying while reading this book and recommend it as long as you are prepared to leave a piece of your heart with the author and his family.

ERIC'S LAST ROUND-UP
Eric Pringle, (1974 - 1981) was a bright, engaging boy who loved candy, cowboys, television and superheroes.He loved making up stories and playing with dogs.Creative and artistic, Eric loved to draw and was quite adept at drawing detailed cowboys.He enjoyed a good joke on his brother Michael who was 2 years his senior.In short, Eric (nicknamed "E") was a normal boy.

At 4, Eric was diagnosed with leukemia.His distraught parents and brother sought ways to make the treatments Eric underwent more palatable.One clever method they devised was to tell him that his medications were like "superheroes" that warded off the evil illness.Michael, to his credit continued treating Eric like a healthy sibling and the pair displayed refreshingly normal bouts of sibling rivalry.

I was not too fond of the author and I didn't like the way he would brush Michael off when Michael expressed resentment over the extra attention Eric was receiving.In one memorable scene, the author tells the resentful Michael to "shut up" and that he went outside to get away from the boy.Ouch!I also didn't like the way he criticized Michael for describing a nightmare he had had shortly after Eric's death in October, 1981.Nightmares were a normal response to the tragedy and trauma this child had undergone.A bright, imaginative child, it was only natural that this young boy's subconscious would conjure up frightful images after losing a brother.

The part that really soured me on the author was when he told a story with Eric as the hero and Michael as the villain.Although Michael outwardly took it in stride, one could not help but wonder what message such a story sent to Michael.I thought it was cruel to make him the villain in the story.

Pringle captivates with a smile

He enjoyed his "Any-M's," those miniature candy-coated chocolates which refuse to melt in your hands.He laughed with his brother and parents, often dressing up as a cowboy before galloping around the house, or giving mock-interviews to his dad's tape recorder.He smiled, when smiles were at a premium.Eric Pringle was a young boy battling leukemia, and spinal taps weren't as much fun as Star Wars figures--but he smiled anyway.

Terry Pringle's THIS IS THE CHILD is Eric's story, revealed through his father's emotional exploration of a tight Texas family.From a rattlesnake coiled in the dining room of a new house to countless I-Spy games during countless journeys to countless doctors in Houston, "E" takes it all in stride.

Here, as in subsequent novels THE PREACHER'S BOY and A FINE TIME TO LEAVE ME, Pringle is adept at depicting the minutiae of family life--the television shows (and everything else) that kids bicker over; the kids (and everything else) that adults bicker over.He i ... Read more

Product Description
“Rusty Hammer is an inspiration … We have watched his battle with admiration, for it is a tribute to the human spirit, and to the dignity and courage of a good man.”

—Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa， City of Los Angeles

Shortly after his fiftieth birthday in 2003, Rusty Hammer’s life irrevocably changed. Diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of leukemia, he had two choices: fight or give in. And he chose to fight.

When Cancer Calls … Say Yes to Life shares Rusty Hammer’s courageous journey through cancer. With rare candor, Hammer describes how he faced his future with hope instead of succumbing to the blackness of despair. Hammer illustrates how imperative it is to live our lives to the fullest for our own emotional and physical well-being.

But Hammer takes his story one step further. He provides sound ideas on how the medical community can better serve patients confronted with this dreaded disease, and also reveals alternative ways to help cancer patients cope with their diagnosis.

Honest and heartfelt, When Cancer Calls … Say Yes to Life offers comfort and encouragement to those newly diagnosed with cancer or who have fought the disease for years.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

My Bible Now...
I met Rusty in Fall of 2007, when he worked with a group at Los Gatos High School (CA) putting on Wit, the Pulitzer Price winning play about a 50 year old professor of John Dunne, who is diagnosed with stage IV ovarian cancer. His humility, yet passion for life and continued willingness to give amazed me. I bought his book during his first book signing event, and read it right after that. It was like the man in person, full of transparency, openness about the tough road he travelled, and very useful advice for fellow travelers. When I went to his memorial, the auditorium was filled to capacity with people he touched through all stages of his life.
A little more than a year later I was diagnosed with a cancer not quite as difficult as his, but the road is not an easy one. I reread his book, and it is always by my bedside, more poignant than ever. It gives both practical advice, and shares his spirit of hope and saying 'yes' to life.
I would unreservedly recommend it to anybody interested in what cancer is like from a patient perspective, and how to deal with it both practically and spiritually written in a clear and direct, yet personal way.

An amazing story by an amazing man
Rusty's book is a candid account of his experience living with cancer. It reflects his spirit and enthusiasm for life. Rusty lived every day to its fullest until he passed away on January 28th, 2008. He will be missed but will live on through this fabulous story. ... Read more

Product Description
International experts not only review the state-of-the-art in managing children and adults with acute leukemia, but also debate the pros and cons of current controversial and problematic issues. The book summarizes the best diagnostic and treatment practices for acute leukemias in children, adolescents, and adults. Among the therapies discussed are methotrexate, asparaginase, antipurines, epipodophyllotoxins, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, hematopoietic growth factors, and immunotherapy. ... Read more

Product Description
Edited by experts from one of the world’s largest leukemia centers, this book details the biology of various leukemic disorders, provides up-to-date diagnostic testing, and highlights new developments in therapy. Specialists in hematology and oncology will find a useful chapter on supportive care covering special and often challenging situations, such as treating elderly, pregnant or relapsed patients as well as patients with refractory disease. The editors include relevant information on the most frequently used drugs in this area. A special section on new therapies in leukemia presents an outlook for the future and explain the rationale for many ongoing clinical trials. ... Read more

Product Description
While many believe that being diagnosed with leukemia is like being handed a death sentence, South Dakota native Louis George Whitehead provides living proof that survival of this life-threatening and life-changing illness is possible.

At age twenty-one, Whitehead’s doctor informs him that he is suffering from acute myeloid leukemia. After two rounds of chemotherapy and a relapse a few months later, Whitehead makes the decision to undergo a bone-marrow transplant. Living through Leukemia chronicles his story of endurance and optimism.

Whitehead shares his feelings following his initial diagnosis and through the realization that a fatal outcome was possible. He also details the events and symptoms leading up to his courageous battle and describes the importance of both his friends and family in the struggle to get well and stay that way.

If you or someone close to you is living with leukemia or is facing the prospect of a bone-marrow transplant, Whitehead’s personal reflections will serve as encouragement on how to approach each day with a leveled patience and look ahead to a more hopeful time. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

disappointing
My husband was just diagnosed with AML so I was hoping that this had some insight but really learned very little - not much factual info and very little meaningful experiential stuff.The free literature from the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society was infinitely more meaningful.

A survivor's story
Louis Whitehead was 21 years old when he was diagnosed with leukemia. The disease took almost two years out of his life, where all he could focus on was his battle towards recovery. In this book, he chronicles his struggle with the illness; from the first symptoms begin to show up, through diagnosis, treatment, and finally his complete recovery. The book provides a detailed account of the steps involved in battling this life-threatening disease, including chemotherapy, irradiation, and a bone-marrow transplant, followed by a long recovery period that is both physically and emotionally exhausting. The book is mostly factual and descriptive in its writing style, but Whitehead also touches on his spiritual strength and never wavering belief that he will survive, as well as the support from family and friends that helps him pull through the ordeal. He also discusses his experiences with lengthy hospitals stays and medical staff. Many are helpful and caring, but there are others who seem to forget that they are dealing with human beings and tend to treat patients as "cases," leaving the patient feeling lost and lonely in his quest for recovery.

Whitehead's book should be helpful reading for anyone going through a similar illness, or for people whose loved ones are suffering from cancer. It gives the reader a thorough understanding of the steps involved in the battle with leukemia and shows that it is possible to come out on the other side with health and spirits intact ... Read more