This book is less a self-help guide to getting through cancer and more an explanation of what cancer is, how it sometimes recurs and, centrally, how important it is to follow medical advice and conventional treatment rather than to put faith in stories online and in social media about alternative “miracle cures.” This is something that has not really been done before, and is even more valuable as Liz O’Riordan is a former breast cancer surgeon who herself has had breast cancer and is still on preventative medication. She explains the science clearly in a way that is easier to understand, but without patronizing the reader, and debunks the myths about what causes cancer and what supplements or therapies are claimed to “cure” it. Her most scathing passages are reserved for claims about so-called natural regimes that cause patients to refuse conventional medical treatment, and cites several horror stories about people who have died unnecessarily after doing so. She does not go in for patient blaming, guilt tripping or denial of occasional treats, but advocates helpful and proven practices to aid recovery and help with side effects, such as exercise, healthy diet and some complementary therapies. A useful tool for anyone diagnosed with, experiencing or worried about cancer and confused about all the information-and misinformation- out there.

This sad but very real topic of cancer and what to do if and when you have it is extremely well dealt with in The Cancer Roadmap.
Unfortunately, like many of us, I know people directly and indirectly who have stopped believing in mainstream medicine for the treatment of their cancer, their loved ones’ cancer (hence, affected their loved ones’ decisions in vulnerable times), and chronic conditions.
O’Riordan speaks about the reasons what and why not to trust, and what can be done.
I picked this book to be able to recommend and refer to when my loved ones are in doubt, and denial.
My confirmation bias in this case is one that I would not change, but I hope those succumbing to dangerous alternatives can benefit from this book and challenge their confirmation bias for unproven treatments.