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I Know Someone with Cancer (Young Explorer: Understanding Health Issues) ISBN: 9781406220759
Barraclough, Sue
Published by Raintree, 2011
One of a series of books about health problems and disabilities, this one concentrates on cancer. As a major theme has to do with how one can help a friend with cancer, there is much about being supportive, about planning good times together when the friend feels like it, and listening if the friend wants to talk (though they may not want to - a good point!) Helping the family is a good idea as well, and some people like to raise money for cancer charities. From the patient's point of view, we learn that he or she may have to stay away from school for some time because of the possibility of catching infections from others, and that fear and anger are all part of normal feelings. Friends and family will feel worried or angry too, and it's good to talk about these things. A large part of the book is about cancer itself - what it is and how it grows, and the fact that there are different kinds. Causes of cancer are given as well as ways of keeping oneself healthy and cutting down on the risk. Treating cancer is explained simply but effectively. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are explained and pictures show the processes. We hear that patients may lose their hair and feel sick for awhile, but most will do well and 'remission' will follow. We learn about some famous people who have had cancer and come through well, and there is a True or False section that explains some of the myths that have grown over the years. This is a good production with large print and just the right amount of information for young children who need to know. It could be used for patients, their families, and their friends to explain just what is going on.
Age: 7+