Additional information
by Lisa Schwartz (Illustrator), Jamie MacKenzie (Author)
What could possibly be funny about prostate cancer and prostate-removal surgery? Almost everything, it turns out - if you let it be. This handbook memoir, written by prostate cancer survivor, actor, writer, producer, Jamie MacKenzie, walks men and their loved ones through all of the serious steps before them - from PSA numbers rising to determining whether to have a biopsy, from diagnosis to pre-op, from surgery to recovery - all while not only telling readers what to expect, but also showing them how to mine the inherent humor that will unexpectedly and mercifully accompany the fear. Written because the author, while acknowledging the many fine books available on the subject, felt that they were too dry and somber, and felt like an additional punishment to have to read; that what they lacked was first-hand access to the roller coaster of emotions one has when taking this harrowing, involuntary journey. With whimsical illustrations heading each chapter, reflecting its content, this heartfelt memoir disarms and encourages readers, reminding them that smiling is permissible even when faced with a serious health crisis. This is what it actually feels like to face prostate disease, to undergo prostate removal surgery, and to go forward with one's life, on a very personal and accessible level. This is an intimate celebration of humanity - with a portion of proceeds going to Prostate Cancer Research.
Author Biography
Jamie MacKenzie is an actor, writer, producer whose play BEYOND RECOGNITION was the first work by an American playwright to be performed at the Imperial Theatre of the Hermitage, in St Petersburg, Russia. He has appeared as a guest on the Today Show, A&E Biography and Voice of America, among others - and is a veteran announcer for thousands of television and radio voice-overs. As a member of ASCAP, his work has been performed on national television. His first appearance on stage, at age 12, was as a vocal ensemble soloist in PERSEPHONE, conducted by its composer Igor Stravinsky, with the Philadelphia Orchestra in New York City, Philadelphia and Washington, DC. Attended the Rhode Island School of Design for two years, then studied acting with Uta Hagen at HB Studio/NYC. Acting credits include ABC's ELEANOR & FRANKLIN with Jane Alexander and Edward Herrmann. He is currently consumed with narrating audio books.
