A journey through cancer - John Ellwood

This book is a meditation on the author's own personal experience with cancer, but also a guide to those still navigating its troublesome path. Beginning with an introduction to the writer's cancer diagnosis, and then taking us through its journey (a metaphor the author deploys and aptly takes for the title), it deals with the public perception of cancer, the highs and lows of treatment, and the two potential outcomes. It weaves in spiritual aspects of sickness and scriptural support from the Bible, also importantly recognizing that this is an individual experience and that this guide is far from definitive - which makes it all the more supportive. It also provides practical tips, scripture passages and small tidbits of emotional advice in a balanced and sensitive way that treads the line of this incredibly harmful disease very well.However the message of this book reaches further. As the author himself says, "It is about learning to slow down, to treasure the moment, to take time to notice not only my surroundings, but to pay closer attention in a conversation or take note of the expression in the face of the person I am talking to. The big picture matters, but so do all the small details."