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"Unknowingly, the authors were able to capitalize on a similar idea stretching back to... 84 Charing Cross Rd by Helene Hanff [which] uses old-fashioned pen and post as she shares the pen-pal exchanges between her adolescent self and a peer in the United Kingdom during wartime. Today's Cocoon evokes the same intimacy of interchange, recording the candid tenderness and fears that surface for Abbe and Jim with their family and friends." - Stewart Fleishman, M.D., Founding Director of Cancer Support Systems of NY and author of Learn to Live Through Cancer: What You Need to Know and Do Love and intimacy inspire this book as well as inform those diagnosed with cancer, their caregivers, families, and staff. The essays and poems reflect an attitude of wonder, defiance, acceptance, and beauty through the painful journey. Sometimes raw, the letters to friends voice the unspeakable. The scientific tone of Jim, the patient, comes through when he has the energy to speak. His wife and caregiver, Abbe, witnesses and documents the signs of distress, gains, losses, and the new equilibrium that forges deep love. More than anything, this is an invitation to feel and find comfort. "Caregiver Tips", "Questions I Still Ponder", and "Questions for the Reader to Ponder" are included at the end of the manuscript. "As an author, Abbe's skill for writing brings a cluster of sunshine through the dim of darkness. As a true life event, it's a very educational and inspiring tale.... I'm sure it had to be one of the most difficult challenges (a family experiences) day in and out, and this author has done a superb job in giving her readers the real deal behind the journey." - Nina, Goodreads "Cocoon of Cancer is a poetic, poignant, and scientifically accurate memoir. Abbe's Care Giver's Tips add insights to those who will identify with similar thoughts and feelings." - Dr. Fred Appelbaum, President, Seattle Cancer Care Alliance "Enlightening.... I highly recommend this book for patients and families undergoing the sometimes confusing, often fearful, and yes, at times even joyful, process of cancer care." - Dr. Mathey, Oncologist & Hemotologist, Skagit Regional Cancer "A positive, perceptive primer for cancer patients and caregivers." - Kirkus Reviews