A Must Read For Caregivers and Others Providing Support

RobertMusser

As a man, I've rarely found myself asking for help, but breast cancer changed that...and fast!

When breast cancer happens to women you love, all you want to do is fix it and make it disappear.  At least that is how I felt when Ann, my wife of 26 years was diagnosed.  When she told me the news, my world went blank. Numbness set in, and I was momentarily speechless.  Ann received lots of information to help her know what was coming but nothing was specifically targeted toward me, the caregiver.  This was a very troubling inconsistency given 1 in 8 women is diagnosed with breast cancer, and each one needs support.

Determined that no others should feel as frustrated and alone at such a critical time, I wrote a book called "The P.I.N.K. Primer: For Partners In Need of Koaching".  It is quick and easy guide for partners supporting a loved one through the various stages of breast cancer.  Tips are offered in the following areas: telling others, selection of doctors, medical terminology, getting organized, plan of attack, managing the process, support systems, needed distractions, the ins and outs of surgery and chemotherapy, cooking, bumps in the road, hair loss, rehabilitation, and breast reconstruction.

Men basically don't like to ask for help or admit they don't know all the answers, but when dealing with the big BC, we do need help.   So, if you, or someone else you know is battling breast cancer, don't forget about the needs of the care and support givers and consider getting them this book.  The book is available on Amazon.com.  A significant portion of proceeds from the sale of the book are being donated to organizations supporting women touched by breast cancer

Here's what others have said about it:

"The P.I.N.K. Primer is an inspiring effort to help all those individuals who are striving to support loved ones diagnosed with cancer"- Michele Ann Manahan, M.D., Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, Johns Hopkins Hospital

"This book is a handhold in the darkness for anyone who knows and loves someone facing the life threatening challenges of cancer.  The P.I.N.K. Primer will remind you that your caring is bigger than your fear.  Not only does it give you practical and specific guidance to grab onto, it also helps you breathe deeper and realize that you can reach out in ways you never thought possible." -  Dawna Markova, author of I Will Not Die an Unlived Life and co-creator of the Random Act of Kindness movement and cancer survivor.

Beesie

A "Must Read"?  I guess since your wrote it, you would consider it that. 

I appreciate that the message in your book may be very valuable but I don't think it's appropriate to plaster your post all over this discussion board.  In fact, it's not only inappropriate but it's also against the rules:

You agree not to advertise or promote any goods or services in the Discussion Boards or Chat Rooms. "Junk mail", "spamming," "chain letters," "pyramid schemes" and similar activities are strictly prohibited. You agree not to solicit anyone to buy or sell products or services, or to make donations of any kind, without our express written approval.

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I'm sure your intentions are good but a single post in the "Family and Friend" forum probably would have been sufficient.

otter

Thanks, Beesie.

otter