Facing Death Together

A Story of Our Losing Battle with Cancer

By: Jordan Smith Jr. Ed. D.

Narrated by: Frank Block

Length: 3 hrs and 42 mins

Publisher's summary

Facing Death Together is a true story of how a loving marriage of 16 years is suddenly turned upside down after a simple routine visit to the doctor because of constipation. No one in the family suspected the traumatic reality of facing an unexpected diagnosis.

In July 2018, an oncologist previously stated to us just two weeks earlier, we had nothing to worry about. The doctor enters the room and tells us that Joyce, my dear loving wife, has stage four cancer with 6-18 months to live. I was 65 at the time and Joyce was 72 years old at that time. This story shares the experience and very tragic life-changing experiences of dealing with doctors, insurance companies, health care providers, and family.

Joyce requested that I start writing this after the third month of chemo. She made me promise to publish this book so that others would know and understand what happens when someone is given a stage 4 cancer diagnosis and the unconscious, unpredictable consequences of choosing a quantity of life. Her choice of choosing to die at home placed a burden on her loving family. Joyce was fortunate to die before COVID-19. This story shares warnings worthy of an afternoon listening to help prepare anyone who may have someone with a terminal illness and what to expect during the coming months after receiving a terminal illness diagnosis.

©2022 Jordan B. Smith Jr. (P)2022 Jordan B Smith Jr.

Palliative care vs Hospice care

Learning the difference between palliative care and hospice care was well explained.
Starting palliative care earlier can improve the quality of life for both the patient and loved ones. The Reflection Process was something new to me and I enjoyed learning about it.

A Moving Book...

This book really moves the heart. It addresses the common story of cancer in an authentic way that has you tearing up and feeling the weight of many of those that share this story. Amazing...

Powerful. Captivating. Emotional.

I’ve been married for 11 years and couldn’t imagine the pain Jordan has gone through. Thank you so much for your courage and vulnerability to share your story.

“I am fortunate enough to still be alive.” This may encompass the message of the book. The gratitude for life. But, also the responsibility to share what he has learned. The attitude is that of someone really hoping to help the listeners in any way he can. Whether it is the warning not to smoke or to listen to medical workers about COVID or how to save money on your next trip to Vegas, he has something to offer from great life experience.

This is a sweet, beautiful sentiment to his late wife, showing gratitude for her skills as a bookkeeper, reminiscing on one of his first conversations with her mom, and fondly remembering seeing their dog as they come home.

He delves into the painful experiences. Not just the cancer, but also what they’ve learned through the loss of her son.

I’ve heard once that wisdom is perspective. And this is a work full of perspective!

I don't know how he did it

What an amazing awful truth. I started crying at the introduction, and at various points throughout. This was especially horrible for me since my sister just died of stage 4 lung cancer. Excellent book, hard subject.

A loving, caring story!

Joyce was very blessed to have such a supportive and loving husband by her side throughout this life-changing ordeal! It’s difficult to deal with the actual disease and all the physical and emotional struggles that are associated with it. However, most people don’t realize the additional burdens, such as insurance companies, family issues, etc. that can push people to the brink.
I honor the author and his wife for bravely sharing their story so that others can be better equipped to deal with such situations!

Honest and moving

A really poignant book that some may relate to, some may not - either way it's worth every minute of listening. Beautifully narrated and a great listen.

Moving and informative

I have been a nurse for over thirty years anyone who has cancer or a family is member dealing with cancer will benefit from those book. this is also valuable to anyone because at some point a major debilitating illness will affect you or a loved one.

Living my life

I just lost my dad in August to cancer. From the date of diagnosis to the date of death was exactly 90 days. We didn't have a chance to save him. This book was a reminder for me of what we all lost.

Poignant, helpful listen about cancer

This is a great listen to bring awareness to being diagnosed with cancer, preparations, and what changes when it happens. Working in the medical field, I see how this can disrupt families and relationships who are not prepared. It can come from out of nowhere and be a struggle. Getting this story out there will help many families going through the same struggles. Highly recommended!

A sad story

This book is about a family facing cancer and how they dealt with the all turns and twists that have happened through the years. Each event is told in detail. hope it helps others.