Surviving Cancer

This year there will be more than 1,660,290 new cancer cases in the U.S. Behind that sad statistic are many stories with both similarities and variations. Cancer’s shadow looms large, even for survivors. Fears often linger. Will the cancer come back? Will I experience limitations and side effects for the rest of my life? Are my loved ones predisposed to this disease? In these pages, David Leveille (Dave, to his friends) tells the story of his diagnosis, treatment and eventual return to health. One of the themes of this story is that there is good reason, even in the midst of suffering, to worship and rejoice.

David was diagnosed with melanoma in 1997. It kept returning even after surgery and treatment. With a diagnosis of Stage IV-C metastatic melanoma, the prognosis was bleak. Simultaneously, David was suffering from prostate cancer. During the many years since the onset of his diseases, David has recorded his thoughts and feelings on paper. He has written this book based on his expanded understanding of himself, his faith and his fellow cancer patients. This book is about having cancer, and the insights gained regarding medical treatment, emotional and medical reactions to serious illness, and the transformative power of his experiences.
Experiencing cancer (or other life threatening diseases) is life changing and all pervasive. It affects every part of one’s life. It is not just a physical event. For some, it can become a spiritual journey, transforming relationships in a positive, healing way. This book explains the power of knowledge of one’s disease and the treatments available for it, the importance of good nutrition and exercise and the power of hope and a spiritual life, including a faith in something bigger than oneself. For David, his reality was a good and gracious God whose word promised healing and hope during a difficult journey. His faith made a huge difference in his experience and its successful outcome.
If you have cancer, or support or care for someone else who has it, Surviving Cancer: Not Somehow…But Triumphantly! is a must read. Here is an immediate, practical, and inspiring guide that is empowering for patients, family members, caregivers and friends that will help with both the struggle and survival.