The amazing
Susan Gubar's
Memoir of a Debulked Woman: Enduring Ovarian Cancer is being
released on April 30th. A brilliant feminist scholar and (full disclosure) one
of the most inspirational teachers I've had, Susan was diagnosed in 2008 with
ovarian cancer. In her latest book, she weaves a memoir of her illness together
with a polemic on the state of women's health care in America.
From
Publisher's Weekly:
Feminist author and scholar Gubar received a diagnosis of ovarian cancer in
2008, and the then 63-year-old author underwent the radical surgical procedure
called debulking, which removes many of the organs in a woman’s lower abdomen.
Gubar’s memoir is not easy reading. She recounts in detail the grotesque
procedures and the horrendous pain and humiliation she endured. The author
ponders why major advances have mounted up for the treatment of breast cancer,
but little has changed in treating ovarian cancer. Gubar weaves her personal
story into a discussion of art, literature, and statements from other cancer
patients. The author recounts the strength and care she received from family and
friends, especially her husband, from her diagnosis through treatment to
remission. She then finds herself confronted with a choice. “Either I have a
third abdominal surgery that comes with its own complications or I suffer from
infections preventing future therapies that would extend my life.” Gubar wrote
her memoir for one reason: “my central motive consists of a fierce belief that
something must be done to rectify the miserable inadequacies of current medical
responses to ovarian cancer.” Gubar’s passionate and brave polemic is critical
reading for anyone concerned with the state of women’s health care in America.
(Apr.)
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