The Ultimate Challenge

Of all the words in the English language,
probably no other conjures more fear and
dread than "cancer." Jerry Padavano knows
this well. He was happily married with
two growing boys and a thriving career
when he was diagnosed with stage three
colorectal cancer in 1990. In this candid
and uplifting memoir, Padavano shares
the challenges he faced and the lessons he
learned while triumphing over cancer.,P>

By striking the disease at its weakness-
exploiting its inability to cripple love, corrode
faith, shatter hope, silence courage, invade
the soul, or shut out happy memories-he
defeated it. With the comfort and support of
family and friends, Padavano worked his
way past the numbness, shock, and anger
of his diagnosis, through the rigors of
therapies, and on to wellness and joy.

A victor and survivor, Padavano delivers
useful information about coping with the
everyday realities of colorectal cancer and
its treatment and recovery, including
stages, possible therapies and surgery, and
products and tips for managing a colostomy.

Most importantly, he offers survivors and
their caregivers the keys to persevere through
the worst of what life has to offer and
emerge a better person with a profound
appreciation for life and all its gifts.