About the Book
At 57 years old, Gogs was only a few years into his retirement when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer. In great shape and with no symptoms, the idea that he had cancer came as a complete shock. To help cope with the experience, Gogs turned to research and writing, finding the process therapeutic-so much so that he wrote a book sharing intimate details of his diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
"Most men who are diagnosed [with prostate cancer] deal with it as best they can," says David R. Con, Library Journal reviewer and prostate cancer survivor. "They inform their families and rapidly learn about the disease. They take stock and do a bit of soul-searching. They consult doctors and choose and medical treatment. Gogs did all that and more."
A candid and well-researched guide for those facing prostate cancer, their partners, and medical professionals, Prostate Cancer Strikes has been distributed Canada-wide in the Reef Knot Kit by Prostate Cancer Foundation BC. It has also be adopted in clinics worldwide, including the US, UK, and Belgium, and earned the endorsement of Dr. Tom Pickles, one of Canada's most distinguished radiotherapists treating prostate cancer. Other experts in the field who have recommended this book include Beau StubblefieldTave, past Executive Director of Us TOO International Protate Cancer Education & Support Network and Ted Butterfield, past Chair of the Prostate Cancer Foundation BC.
Richard Wassersug is a researcher in psycho-oncology and a prostate cancer patient, and wrote one of the two forewords for Prostate Cancer Strikes. "Gogs Gagnon's Prostate Cancer Strikes in the best [book on prostate cancer] I have read so far. It is medically accurate, well-written, and insightful while maintaining a positive perspective."
An article by Gogs was published in Coping Magazine telling the full story of how he came to write the book. Those interested in following Gogs' work can check out his blog at gogsgagnon.com, subscribe to his YouTube channel at youtube.com/c/gogsgagnon, and connect with him on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram at @gogsgagnon.
About the Author :
A native of New Westminster, Gogs Gagnon followed an early passion for computers by becoming a programmer and independent technology consultant. In the course of his career, he has developed software for Apple, IBM, and the government of British Columbia where he was the lead programmer analyst and data architect. Now, in addition to promoting prostate cancer awareness, Gogs devotes much of his time to writing. His next book is a coming-of-age memoir set in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia during the 1970s. The father of three children, Gogs lives with his wife and their two dogs in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, BC.
Review :
"It is essential reading for medical and nursing students." - JoDivine.com
"A great book recommendation for your patients." - UroToday.com
"Prostate Cancer Strikes is the best prostate cancer book I've ever read. Gogs takes us on a journey from his rising PSA, through negative prostate biopsies, to his diagnosis, surgery, recovery, and survivorship. His humor and humility shine throughout, and Gogs' willingness to admit his mistakes is admirable." - Beau Stubblefield-Tave, past Executive Director of Us TOO International Prostate Cancer Education & Support Network. Des Plaines, Illinois
"Gogs' personal account helps shed light on what to expect and questions to consider asking during prostate cancer treatment. His mix of sensitivity and humour makes for an easy, enjoyable read." - Victoria Cullen, PhD Researcher and Sexual Recovery Specialist, Founder of ATouchySubject.com. Melbourne, Australia
"Prostate Cancer Strikes is a good read and will be an excellent addition to many other books on prostate cancer, but with a difference. Gogs Gagnon provides very keen observations throughout, from the early stages to treatment and recovery. It's clear he has done a lot of research on the topic." - Ted Butterfield, past Chair Prostate Cancer Foundation BC
"Prostate Cancer Strikes is an easy read, and I particularly like his jocular references to science fiction and general writing style. Gogs gets into the nitty-gritty of diagnosis and treatment and acknowledges what he should have done differently, which is helpful for the reader." - Dr. Tom Pickles, MB, MD, MRCP, FRCPC Radiation Oncologist, BC Cancer Agency, UBC Professor Co-author of The Intelligent Patient Guide to Prostate Cancer
"Prostate Cancer Strikes is just the right mix of medical facts, human interest and whimsical humour. I quite enjoyed the structure of the book paralleling a George Lucas/Tolkien adventure. Gogs' honest and open writing makes for a compelling and entertaining journey." - Richard Lett Comedian, Actor, Award-Winning Author, testicular cancer survivor. Vancouver, BC
"Written as a personal narrative, this book gives an honest account of a man's experience with the stress and uncertainties of prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. Peppered with humor and touching anecdotes, Prostate Cancer Strikes narrates Gogs' process of choosing a treatment plan and how he overcame various side effects. Gogs translates his experience into useful guidance so that others may be empowered as they face prostate cancer." - Dr. Beverly A. Zavaleta, MD Physician and breast cancer survivor, Author of Braving Chemo: What to Expect, How to Prepare and How to Get Through It. Brownsville, Texas
"Prostate Cancer Strikes gives much-needed insight from a patient's aspect, and Gogs' description of his experience is a wonderful read." - Linda Hoetger, Social Media Ambassador for ZERO - The End of Prostate Cancer. Canal Winchester, Ohio
"A great read and well put together. Gogs has a gift, and I loved it. This book is a must for those who experienced prostate cancer and those about to." - Vic Lombardi, TV Reporter, Host of Altitude Sports and Entertainment, and prostate cancer survivor. Denver, Colorado
"A riveting account of the challenges of prostate cancer diagnosis and management from a prostate cancer survivor. A recommended read for prostate cancer patients, caregivers and advocates. Gogs' experience documented in this book will no doubt be a guide to all." - Dr. Mohammed Taofiq, MD, FWACS, Urologist, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital. Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
