Book summary and critique - Essay Example

Book Summary and Critique: “It’s Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life” Summary The book written by Lance Armstrong and Sally Jenkins is a story about the struggles of Lance Armstrong, a professional cyclist, who, at his prime age, was diagnosed with testicular cancer but has survived and has won various international prestigious racing competitions. Armstrong begun to proffer a glimpse of his life prior to the diagnosis of the cancer and after having triumphed over it. His personal strengths in physical attributes, emotional character and mind set were detailed in preparation for the events of facing the Big C.

Details of his courageous battle and determination to defeat cancer, despite being the tremendous odds of survival, were narrated in a matter-of-factly form. His commitment to his craft was his ultimate concern right after being diagnosed with cancer – even more than the possibility of untimely demise. Armstrong acknowledged the disease as an eye-opening opportunity to remunerate of his life, as he indicated “my illness was humbly and starkly revealing, and it forced me to survey my life with an unforgiving eye” (Armstrong & Jenkins, 4).

The exceptional determination to win encouraged him to strive beyond expectations and enabled Armstrong to catapult to fame from winning the Tour de France in seven consecutive years from 1999 to 2005, despite the rigors of the dreaded disease. His inspirational experience provided the impetus for the establishment of a foundation, the Lance Armstrong foundation, with the mission of improving the lives of people who have been drastically affected by cancer. Critique The book was inspirational for readers from all walks of life.

For radiation therapists, in particular, after reading the book, one is made more aware of the important role and responsibilities of radiotherapists in the treatment of cancer, in terms of gaining competence in assessing cancer patients on their physical, emotional and psychological status after being diagnosed of the disease. The crucial role of appropriate and comprehensive patient assessment is necessary in recommending the required radiation doses to prevent affecting damage to other health tissues surrounding the identified location of cancer cells.

The authors provided opportunities for radiation therapists to acknowledge their instrumental and crucial role in the road to recovery. The positive stance and optimistic outlook manifested and exemplified by Armstrong, as revealed from his triumph and survival, despite the slim odds for survival, are lessons that sometimes, miracles do happen. It is fortunate for Armstrong to have the physical attributes and training for stamina and strength to fight and win battles – whether these be cycling tours or the battle to survive in life.

The support accorded by loved ones, particularly of his mother, and by meeting his wife, were likewise significant factors to strive harder and to obliterate any thoughts of defeat. The book was instrumental in providing one of life’s most significant lessons, that which was inspired by Armstrong’s mother, to wit: “make every obstacle an opportunity” (Armstrong & Jenkins, 16). And that exactly what Armstrong did. Work Cited Armstrong, Lance & Jenkins, Sally. It’s Not About the Bike: My Journey Back to Life.

Penguin Books. 2001. Print.