Betwn Helo & Gdbye C

Though at first glance this may appear to be yet another inspirational tale of a struggle against cancer, this memoir--based on Craig's journals from 1986 to 1988--rises above the cliches of the genre. Craig and her ailing husband, Ed, were equally determined to overcome his disease and to retain his independence and dignity despite a dehumanizing medical establishment. Lurking behind the book's breezy style is a courageous woman who not only heads her own advertising agency in Los Angeles but had found herself severely tested by raising four children during the long illness of her first husband. The earlier marriage is fondly recalled in flashbacks and integrated into the account of Craig's present family. Along with their dogged though doomed pursuit of a cure through experimental research, the couple battles to maintain normalcy despite constant stress. Above all, they continue to challenge the decisions of the medical professionals, and ultimately they meet Ed's death on their own terms. 50,000 first printing; $50,000 ad/promo; BOMC selection; author tour. (Jan.)