Knowing God's comfort and strength through breast cancer
Helen E Jones
Verite CM Ltd, 2012, £7.99
Pb 160pp, ISBN 9781907636530
Review by Helen Sweetland, Consultant Breast Surgeon in Cardiff

This is Helen's personal story of her diagnosis and treatment for breast cancer, including surgery and chemotherapy. It is an honest reflection of how she and her family (including two young sons), dealt with that journey.

The account of the physical and emotional effects of treatment is permeated by her testimony of how her Christian faith was challenged by events yet grew stronger as the months progressed. She was supported by Christian friends and relatives, who are the focus of many of the situations described ,and there are many humorous anecdotes.

Each chapter is short but with plenty of food for thought. Alongside the facts there are inspiring Bible verses, hymns, poems and prayers that have helped Helen through this challenging time. Each chapter could be used as a focus for personal meditation on God's love and care.

This book would be helpful to someone dealing with breast cancer treatment and friends or relatives, as it provides useful insights into how patients, carers and friends can react to each other during treatment. It gives guidance on simple practical ways of providing care and support for someone in that situation. A helpful chapter on life after treatment provides useful tips on how to deal with life physically and spiritually.