Aimed primarily at women recently diagnosed with ovarian epithelial cancer (one of the two most common ovarian cancers), filmmaker Kay Stammers' Facing Ovarian Cancer features several patients and survivors—ranging in age between 44-74—who are anywhere from five months to 10 years past their initial diagnosis. Interviewees talk frankly about their symptoms, diagnoses, responses, chemotherapy (and side effects including hair loss), treatment aftermath, effects on self-image, recurring cancers, impact on partners and children, support systems, and ways they have coped. Doctors, who point out that ovarian cancer is often diagnosed too late since its symptoms mimic common gastrointestinal conditions, talk about surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and post-treatment concerns, while nurses, psychologists, and other specialists explain their roles in patient care. Simple animated drawings are used to illustrate the various stages of ovarian cancer, while bulleted points summarize risk factors, symptoms, types of medical tests, helpful tips, and technical information. Although produced in Australia (with contact information provided for services in Australia), the information provided here is universal, while the tone is hopeful and upbeat, focusing on “realistic optimism.” Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg)
Facing Ovarian Cancer
(2008) 120 min. DVD: $89: public libraries; $299: colleges & universities. Fanlight Productions. PPR. ISBN: 1-57295-502-3. Volume 24, Issue 3
Facing Ovarian Cancer
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