Survived

Some diagnoses are devastating; they make people feel helpless and terrified. Patients are left questioning what is happening to them and often feel like they have to find answers for themselves.

When he is in his early fifties, doctor and journalist Hartmut Wewetzer is unexpectedly diagnosed with stomach cancer. His life is literally on a knife edge. His life, his family, his career – everything is called into question. Amidst this crisis, he embarks on a very special journey, an expedition into the »world of cancer«, as someone who has written about oncology throughout his professional life, as a doctor who is familiar with the disease from his practical experience – and as a person affected by it. He conducts in-depth research on causes, treatment options and mental strategies to cope with the illness. And he talks about the fates of other patients, tells the story of groundbreaking discoveries and revolutionary therapies, and describes the ups and downs of his own experience as a patient.

His prescription is: knowledge. By understanding the disease, you take the first big step towards freeing yourself from its grip. In addition, Wewetzer provides his readers with a multitude of practical tips on things like finding the best therapy and the best therapist for them.

Survived. What I Learnt from Having Cancer is a book for patients, relatives and those who want to know more about the disease and protect themselves. It is an encouraging guide through the labyrinth of the world of cancer.