When the active phase for cancer treatment ends, does life magically return to normal?
How is one supposed to feel besides exhausted? Grateful? Rational?
What does routine even mean anymore?
Unlikely Gifts Unwrapped is the long-anticipated sequel to The Unlikely Gift of Breast Cancer, named one of the best breast cancer books of all time by BookAuthority. Award-winning author Diane M. Simard presents an unapologetic dive into the aftereffects of her experience with Stage IIIc breast cancer, including the struggles she encountered as she attempted to rebuild her identity.
Moments of triumph, tragedy, transformation, and humor are recounted with inspirational hope and raw, no-holds-barred interpretation. Through her defining memoir writing style, Diane covers everything post-cancer, ranging from why she now despises ginger to her first cavity in third grade to lymphedema to Nebraska football. There's even a story about cockroaches.
Toward the end of chemotherapy, Diane became so frustrated with the lack of focus paid to the psychological and emotional impacts of her cancer experience that she founded a psychosocial oncology specialty at the University of Denver to train future licensed clinical psychologists how to work with those impacted by cancer. She continues to advocate for educational opportunities and resources to assist in addressing the trauma that often accompanies such a distressing diagnosis.
Since the intersection of mental health and cancer is a focal point in her narrative, several mental health therapists provide their perspectives on why the effects of cancer-related trauma—including anxiety, stress, and depression—are so challenging.
The account of Diane's quest to find herself again and redefine her life after cancer is filled with intense grace, resilience, wisdom, and a powerful zeal to embrace a purpose-driven existence. Her authentic voice is witty and relatable, reminiscent of a chat with a cherished friend.
