Book Trailer  |  Press  |  Early Reviews  |  Synopsis  |  Foreword  |  Buy the Book

Foreword by Mel Silverstein, MD.

For the past forty years, my medical expertise has been exclusively in the field of breast surgery, and more specifically caring for women with invasive breast cancer and DCIS (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ). DCIS is considered an early form of cancer where abnormal cells multiply to form a growth within the breast ducts but they have not yet invaded the surrounding support tissues. If left untreated, many DCIS will develop into invasive breast cancer requiring more serious treatments.

The author’s cancer was detected early during a routine mammogram, generally, the only way to identify this type of breast cancer. During her first visit to my Los Angeles office, I commended her on her diligence in tending to the results of her abnormal mammogram, because early detection and treatment is the key to a good outcome.

In Healing With Words, the author shares her breast cancer journey in a wry, compassionate and professional way. She chronicles her story with poetic charm coupled with her nursing and teaching knowledge—a combination which is guaranteed to result in an engaging page-turner, while also offering tips, solace and encouragement for others who may find themselves in similar circumstances.

Throughout the book, the author stresses how writing has helped her cope and she encourages readers to do the same. She also discusses the importance of orchids during her own healing and recovery. As her surgeon, I vividly remember her hospital room filled with their vibrant energy, which she claimed helped heal her spirit.

I applaud the author for having the courage to share her very personal story in the form of narrative, journal entries and poems. I understand that everyone reacts and copes differently to the diagnosis of breast cancer and naturally everyone’s story is unique, but this author’s journey may serve as a guidepost for other women, motivating women to seek early detection.

The author describes in simple terms, her medical and emotional journey, beginning with the news of an abnormal mammogram, to seeking out the best care, to six months later receiving her breast tattoo, and finally, to her very revealing afterward which further imprints your appreciation of the author’s commitment to this book.

Those who have dealt with cancer will say that the disease has transformed them and this author is no different. However, what is remarkable is how she responded to her cancer after the initial shock wore off, and even more impressive, what she did with her transformation. The reader should observe and absorb and be inspired by her story and how she did not let her cancer get in the way of her goals in life. On the contrary, her cancer gave her a reason to forge ahead toward her passions with determination and empowerment. Enjoy this profoundly supportive and inspiring story.

Melvin J. Silverstein, MD
Director, Breast Program
Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian
Newport Beach, CA
Clinical Professor of Surgery
Keck School of Medicine
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA