Reviewer: Miss
Jyoti Shah (British Journal of Urology)
This book describes
the experience of a 31-year old man who was diagnosed with
testicular cancer in November 1995, through his own eyes.
The immediacy of personal experience is all too apparent.
The book charts his journey from diagnosis to treatment,
and subsequently moving on, in a chronological, informal,
honest and easy to read style. The author manages to explain
candidly yet beautifully the ups and downs; the reality;
the practical difficulties, such as being refused policies
by insurance companies; the emotional burden; the fear;
and the difficulty for family and friends to actually understand.
I found the book gripping and could feel the emotions of
the writer. As he describes standing up, with shorts and
shoes on, trousers and underpants around his ankles, his
vulnerability is described with grace, elegance and courage.
I found this simple statement so grounding. Upon receiving
the diagnosis, the author is faced with the dilemma of
whom to call first – his mother or father. His realization
that no matter how old, children are still affected by
divorced parents is a poignant reminder of the effect we
have on our patients. The book manages to demystify the
lonely world of cancer and offers camaraderie and companionship.
It empowers the reader. A diagnosis of cancer is like embarking
on a journey with no maps. Please, Sir, Can I have my balls
back is a book that provides a map of this journey and
I would recommend it to anyone who deals with testicular
cancer – doctors, nurses, patients and their families.
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