MEDICAL BOOKSHELF : A Sand Bar on Life’s Journey

CANCER AND HOPE: CHARTING A SURVIVAL COURSE by Judith Garrett Garrison and Scott Sheperd COMPCARE $8.95

This direct and simple guide, published previously as “The Cancer Survival Kit,” helps people ill with cancer or other debilitating diseases get an emotional handle on their lives. Based on the analogy of life as a journey wherein the “pilot” encounters storms and sand bars as well as safe harbors and calm moorings, the book explores ways to find solace, peace and understanding.

The print is large and the chapters are short. One is not a “patient” but a person coping with an illness.

There are exercises in meditation, imaging and dealing with the impersonality of hospitalization and cancer treatment.

There’s also advice for friends and family members. Above all, this pleasant surprise offers necessary courage and tenderness.