October is observed across the world as Breast Cancer Awareness Month – otherwise known as Pinktober. To highlight this essential time of the year, Woman This Month shares its highly recommended books featuring the stories and advice of cancer survivors, a breast-cancer surgeon and a leading oncologist that you may find helpful.
Breasts: The Owner’s Manual
Dr. Kristi Funk
A board-certified breast cancer surgeon, Dr. Kristi Funk is best known for treating A-list celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Sheryl Crow. Breasts: The Owner’s Manual distils the practical knowledge she’s amassed regarding breast cancer prevention, treatment options, and outcomes. As Dr. Funk notes, “Many women believe that family history and genetics determine who gets breast cancer, but that’s not true for most people.” Her book offers accessible, evidence-based strategies for cancer prevention and recovery, including lifestyle swaps and nutritional guides.
Not the Breast Year of My Life
Cara Sapida
Cara Sapida, an award-winning broadcast journalist, chronicles her breast cancer journey with frankness and humour in her debut memoir Not the Breast Year of My Life. She tackles everything from going through chemotherapy to navigating a divorce. Although the tale she unfolds is full of challenges, Sapida reminds readers of the power of hope and resilience.
The Breast Cancer Survival Manual
Dr. John Link
Dr. John Link is the founder of Breastlink Medical Group and a leading oncologist who specialises in breast cancer treatment. The seventh edition of The Breast Cancer Survival Manual, which was released just this year, draws upon his decades of experience helping patients fight this disease. Dr. Link clearly and thoroughly covers the latest research in the field, including the value of genomic testing, individually tailored treatment plans, and hormone therapy after cancer. It’s an ideal resource for anyone in search of practical, up-to-date information as they navigate treatment or recovery.
Beat Breast Cancer Like A Boss
Ali Rogin
Beat Breast Cancer Like a Boss is a compilation of 30 interviews about breast cancer conducted and condensed by Ali Rogin, an award-winning journalist of PBS Newshour fame. With poignant stories of pain and triumph from prominent survivors like Edie Falco, Sheryl Crow and Athena Jones, this book is perfect for anyone seeking inspiration in their breast cancer journey. It’s also a deeply personal endeavour for Rogin, who faced life-altering uncertainty herself when she learned that she has the BRCA1 genetic mutation at age 20.
The Middle Place
Kelly Corrigan
Acclaimed writer Kelly Corrigan is host of the podcast Kelly Corrigan Wonders and the PBS show Tell Me More. The Middle Place, her New York Times-bestselling memoir, recounts her journey battling breast cancer while caring for her ailing family patriarch, George Corrigan. She occupies the roles of both patient and caregiver, ushering in a two-fold journey of coming into her adult self and revisiting her roots. As sad as some of her personal struggles are, Corrigan chronicles them with humour and grace. It’s a meaningful read for anyone who needs a boost of comfort and hope.
