The Single Source Cancer Course

Book excerpt: Presented in two volumes, The Single Source Cancer Course by S. Wilking Horan is a personal handbook that contains the essential information necessary to guide one from cancer prevention to cancer survival and beyond. Written by a three-time cancer survivor with a background in law and psychology, it's designed to be informative without being overwhelming and comprehensive without being cumbersome. It is not only a compilation of cancer basics, but also a roadmap through all the related issues for those wishing to protect themselves from cancer and for those fighting cancer. Volume 1- Prevention begins by discussing the history of cancer and the fears surrounding the disease. It examines the fundamental questions of what cancer is, how it begins and why. Organized into thirteen distinct categories, Volume 1 then moves on to a discussion of the major "causes" of cancer and the specific cancers that each "cause" implicates. This is followed by a pen-to-paper exercise the author calls "The Layering Effect" in which each reader can assess her or his own potential cancer risks and learn how to avoid or mitigate those risks. And, of course, Volume 1 ends with a thorough examination of screening procedures necessary for early detection of the most common cancers. Volume 2 is entitled Treatment and Survival. Here the most common treatments of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation are discussed in detail, as well as alternative and emerging treatments. The ins-and-outs of navigating the medical community and protecting oneself throughout treatment are explained. Pain management, patient privacy rights as well as insurance, billing and financial issues are explored. And, the emotional, physical and legal issues that rise in society, the workplace and the home as one transitions from patient to survivor are discussed. Each Volume is punctuated with personal notes from the author and analyses of press releases, scientific studies and newspaper headlines. Each Volume stresses the importance of thinking for oneself. Each Volume stresses the importance of learning how to objectively evaluate information for oneself. And, each Volume stresses the importance of taking charge of one's own health and well-being in a pro-active and positive way!