Synopses & Reviews
Positive Options for Colorectal Cancer offers readers everything they need to know about understanding and dealing with colorectal cancer. It presents detailed information in a clear and concise manner from a well-known advocate and author who is a personal survivor of Stage III colorectal cancer for more than 20 years. Chapters present information on prevention techniques, warning signs, and screening tests including the latest on virtual colonoscopy and how to find and talk honestly with the right doctor. It offers tips on treatment options including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation in addition to advice for life after colorectal cancer and how to find support and resources for the colorectal cancer patient.
Review
Endorsements for author's first book,
When the Trip Changed:
"Carol Larson describes the universal experience of colorectal cancer in a way that would help patients cope with a life-changing diagnosis." Vicki Haugen RN, BSN, OCN, Fairview Hospital, Edina MN
"When the Trip Changed provides a realistic view of the path that is taken by almost any cancer patient. In Ms. Larson's honest and candid style, she is able to accurately portray emotions, thoughts, fears, and stages of grief that accompany patients who have been diagnosed with cancer and on the journey of cancer treatment." Mary Hughes, MA; LP, LCSW, Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist,
"Carol Larson's When the Trip Changed is a wonderful gift for people with the diagnosis of colon cancer and the people who care about them. She invites the reader to see that even this difficult path is a part of the journey of life." Rita Benak, MS, Licenses Psychologist
"Carol Larson takes us on two very real and personal journeys: a breathtaking tour of Italy and a harrowing passage through illness and her return to health. She gives patients pointers and valuable advice for those who may follow in her footsteps." Kathleen Ogle, MD, medical oncologist
Synopsis
The American Cancer Society's estimates for the number of colorectal cancer cases in the United States for 2013 are:
102,480 new cases of colon cancer
40,340 new cases of rectal cancer
Did you know:
1 in 20 Americans are considered at risk for developing colorectal cancer during their lifetime
Colorectal cancer is expected to be responsible for 50,830 deaths in 2013
Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer for both men and women in America, and the 4th most commonly diagnosed
Although the majority of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer are over 50, it can strike people of any age, any race
Men and women over the age of 50 are at equal risk of developing colorectal cancer
There are now more than 1 million colorectal cancer survivors in the US
Colorectal cancer is preventable and treatable if caught in time, yet less than 40% of the population gets routinely screened for this disease. This is a disease no want wants to talk about or be tested for.
POSITIVE OPTIONS FOR COLORECTAL CANCER, Second Edition, breaks that silence again and brings this disease to awareness. Written by one of the founding members of Advocates for Colorectal Education, (ACE,) this book contains updated information on everything you need to know about this disease. The author openly answers the questions most people would like to know but feel uncomfortable asking, and she goes a long way toward taking the fear of the unknown out of treatment for colorectal cancer. Three doctors from the Minnesota Colon and Rectal Foundation, and professional nurses have checked the medical information, and colorectal cancer survivors have added their personal stories to the book.
The book is clearly written, focusing on practical considerations for the colorectal cancer patient. Each chapter conclusion is a list of patient suggestions and reminders. Chapter 3 contains a question and answer section from doctors about every aspect of this disease.
The book includes information on
prevention techniques
warning signs
screening tests including the latest information on virtual colonoscopy
the truth behind myths and misinformation about colorectal cancer
how to find and talk honestly with the right doctor
the importance of a positive outlook and positive actions
how to find support
treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation
alternative methods of healing
learning to live with an ostomy
life after colorectal cancer
resources for the colorectal cancer patient
A New Table of Contents:
1. Facing the Unknown
2. Gathering Information
3. Working with Medical Professionals
4. Dealing with Your Feelings
5. Making Decisions about Treatments
6. Coping with Surgery
7. The First Six Weeks After Surgery
8. The Challenges of Chemotherapy
9. Possible Complications After Treatment
10. Lessons Learned
POSITIVE OPTIONS FOR COLORECTAL CANCER, Second Edition, is part of the popular Hunter House Positive Options health book series.
About the Author
Carol Ann Larson has been involved with the Colon Cancer Coalition as an advocate for colorectal cancer screening, is a past president for the Minneapolis Ostomy Chapter, a sponsor of "GetYourRearinGear," and a KLBB radio guest. She was one of three people named "Women Who Have Broken Barriers for Colorectal Cancer." She lives in Minnetonka, MN.
Kathleen Ogle, MD, is the medical oncologist at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, MN.
Table of Contents
Foreword
Acknowledgements
Introduction
Chapter 1: Facing the Unknown
Chapter 2: Gathering Information
Chapter 3: Working with Medical Professionals
Chapter 4: Dealing with Your Feelings
Chapter 5: Making Decisions About Treatment
Chapter 6: Coping with Surgery
Chapter 7: The First Six Weeks After Surgery
Chapter 8: The Challenges of Chemotherapy
Chapter 9: Possible Complications After Treatment
Chapter 10: Lessons Learned