8 Steps to Getting Real with Cancer is a practical step-by-step guide for newly-diagnosed cancer patients and those who love them. Empowerment is the key theme throughout this book as Marianne McDonough, a breast cancer survivor, addresses the critical first weeks following diagnosis when patients suddenly face wrenching decisions, intense stress, and their own mortality.

The book is divided into 8 Steps that coincide with the hard questions patients ask themselves, such as:

* What do I know about cancer and believe to be true about myself as a cancer patient?

* How shall I interact with others, especially my family, friends, and medical providers?

* How can I select the best treatment protocol?

* How do I feel about possibly dying?

* Where is God in all of this?

* What am I afraid of?

* How do I deal with the stress?

* Do I dare hope for a future?

Using specific examples from her own cancer journey, McDonough employs an easy-to-read, three-fold format: myths versus truths statements, "how to" applications, and survivors attitudes. Additionally, she debunks "easy platitudes" that impose unfair expectations and standards on patients suddenly struggling with life and death matters.

With palpable compassion, the author writes in a transparent, conversational style. Newly-diagnosed patients, she says, have enough stress while making monumental decisions, so she invites them to rest their souls, find strength in their own beliefs, and prepare well not only for effective treatment but also for fully vibrant survivorship.

The primary audience for this book is cancer patients, especially newly diagnosed, and support people who love and care for them. Other readers include medical, counseling, and ministerial professionals.

This book is an excellent resource and addition to hospital gift shops, oncology and ob/gyn departments, and church book stores.