A Cancer Companion - by Ranjana Srivastava (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Cancer. It's the diagnosis no one wants to hear. Unfortunately though, these days most of us have known or will know someone who receives it. But what's next? With the diagnosis comes not only fear and uncertainty, but numerous questions, and a lot of unsolicited advice. With A Cancer Companion, esteemed oncologist Ranjana Srivastava is here to help, bringing both experience and honesty to guide cancer patients and their families through this labyrinth of questions and treatments.

With candor and compassion, Srivastava provides an approachable and authoritative reference. She begins with the big questions, like what cancer actually is, and she moves on to offer very practical advice on how to find an oncologist, what to expect during and after treatments, and how to manage pain, diet, and exercise. She discusses in detail the different therapies for cancers and why some cancers are inoperable, and she skillfully addresses the emotional toll of the disease. She speaks clearly and directly to cancer patients, caretakers, and their loved ones, offering straightforward information and insight, something that many oncologists can't always convey in the office.

Review Quotes

"Her experiences and outlook provide a unique perspective that can be helpful for readers to understand doctors' point of view. . . . A quality general book about cancer, this title should particularly appeal to those newly diagnosed or those caring for someone with cancer. Also recommended for persons with questions about this disease."-- "Library Journal"

"A diagnosis of cancer triggers many questions, but answers are hard to find. In A Cancer Companion, a pioneer in cancer care, Srivastava brings a lifetime of experience to providing answers. Her tone is intimate and personal, as if she were in the room. She lights the dark spaces, approves the right to ask questions, and is compassionate while being practical. It is the next best thing to having her as your physician. This book is essential reading for cancer patients, their families, and their doctors. "--Abraham Verghese, author of Cutting for Stone

"As a cancer survivor, I found the unparalleled wisdom and empathy offered by Dr. Srivastava to make this book a treasure chest of cutting-edge information to help oncology patients--including those with a serious prognosis--navigate the maze of treatment, its aftermath, and related issues ranging from diet and exercise to mental health and how to talk with one's children. The stories of real people and their families coping with this disease makes The Cancer Companion fascinating and highly accessible to all of us whose lives have been touched by cancer. "--Barbara J. King, author of How Animals Grieve

"At last, we have a practical, easy-to-read book by a cancer specialist that provides information and insights about cancer and cancer care to patients, family members, physicians, nurses and students. Topics discussed in this valuable book include how to find the right oncologist; how to best manage chemotherapy; when to consider a research trial; the role of complementary medicine; predicting treatment outcomes; and ways to manage pain effectively. In an age of shared decision making between patient and doctor, this book will help patients become more informed and more empowered."--Mark Siegler, University of Chicago

About the Author

Ranjana Srivastava, MD is an oncologist and educator in the Melbourne, Australia, public healthcare system. She presents a regular health segment on Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) television and radio. Her writing has been featured in the Guardian, New York Times, New England Journal of Medicine, and the Lancet, among other publications. She is also the author of Tell Me the Truth and Dying for a Chat.