CHICO, Calif., Aug. 3, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- From the moment the word "cancer" falls from the doctor's lips, the epic struggle for survival begins. Medical advances have given great new tactics against this foe, but preparing one's mind is a harder task. Teresa Kalvelage Matthews offers solace by de-mystifying the disease in her new book, Cancer: The Adventure of Your Life! (now available through AuthorHouse).
The book provides inspiration and hope through practical tips to help patients deal with the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual challenges that accompany cancer. Matthews, a three time cancer survivor, offers patients already overwhelmed by the prospect or effects of treatment a non-threatening, large-print book that is an easily-referenced resource covering everything from treatment to insurance.
"Often patients don't even know what questions to ask since the whole experience is foreign. Sample questions for the doctor are included, along with tips on processing information; for example, by bringing along a notebook, tape recorder or friend," Matthews says.
Matthews begins by interpreting the complex terminology used by doctors to describe everything from kinds of tumors to commonly used treatments, and explains it in a simple, easy-to-understand way. Wellness choices for any stage of the journey are explored, including suggestions for exercise, diet, stress management and attitude adjustment. Treatment-specific coping skills are presented for radiation, surgery, and chemotherapy. However, physical difficulties may be less daunting than the emotional ones.
Many patients experience overwhelming fear. Matthews shows readers how to recognize and integrate their emotions while also addressing social issues such as isolation, loneliness and visitor overload. She reiterates that cancer is not a solitary disease, but affects the whole family. After the initial assault on the body, the mountains of medical bills still need to be paid and insurance companies may wrap the process in red tape, which she addresses.
Cancer: The Adventure of Your Life! gives patients and families the tools they need to recognize and overcome the challenges that pour in from all sides during the cancer journey.
A graduate of the University of California at Berkeley with a degree in biology, Matthews has worked in a medical setting for most of her career. She overcame ovarian cancer and two unrelated kinds of breast cancer. Her experiences made her wish for a book like this, which was not available. She now works as a speaker and support person for patients dealing with cancer.
AuthorHouse is the world leader in publishing and print-on-demand services. Founded in 1997, AuthorHouse has helped more than 20,000 people worldwide become published authors. For more information, visit www.authorhouse.com.