Book synopsis:
Josephine Caruso Sethi, "Josie," was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2003 and given less than a year to live. With a sense of urgency driving her creativity, Josie went about creating "The Faces behind Breast Cancer." The Faces behind Breast Cancer is an artistic compilation of pictorial essays which celebrates the cour age, strength and dignity of 79 men and women during various stages of breast cancer treatment and recovery. The photographs and testimonies represent a diverse, cross-section of cancer survivors who Josie met during her own treatment, and capture the unique essence of each individual's cancer journey with honesty and compassion. The book is also a stunning tribute to the human spirit.
Josie's mission is to raise awareness of the effects that breast cancer has on body image and self esteem, as well as give hope and encouragement to those in need.
"When the breasts are altered or damaged by treatment, the mirror becomes the enemy. Many patients feel embarrassed, angry and/or obsessed. It can also upset interpersonal relationships and lead to isolation and depression. I want this book to be hopeful, to inspire others to regain their self-confidence and improve their emotional well-being, while learning to accept the physical changes their bodies undergo during treatment," says Josie.
Because Josie's disease is non-curable, and because she knew that some of the participants would not live long enough to see the final product, it was her decision to self-publish and accelerate the completion of the book as a legacy to her family and as a gift to the cancer community. All net proceeds benefit cancer research.
Book signing:
Monday, October 27, 2008 7:30PM
Books, Inc
2251 Chestnut Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
Proceeds to benefit research
The book is available at www.pinkcrusader.org.
Buy the book on Amazon: The Faces Behind Breast Cancer
About Josephine Sethi:
Josie was born in South Bend, Indiana, grew up in Ohio and is a graduate of Marquette University, Milwaukee. As a student, she was hired by a local television station as the first female technical director. She was one of the first women to join the Milwaukee Stagehands Union.
Following graduation, Josie was promoted to full-time writer and producer and produced a live, daily talk show, a weekly game show, children's programming, holiday specials,news promos and local commercials.
During the same period, Josie wrote, produced and hosted a syndicated radio show featuring female jazz and blues artists through The International Network of Syndicated Radio Productions, entitled "Women & Blues."
Before leaving Milwaukee, Josie assisted with the research and development of three successful cookbooks with author Sophie Kay.
In 1978, Josie was hired as a pioneer producer of Chicago's first all-talk format AM station. She produced a variety of shows dealing with current affairs, entertainment, health, politics and sports.
In 1988, Josie and her family relocated to the Boston area where she was hired by and later managed a local, cable-access station. She wrote, produced, and directed a variety of community- based programs for the townhall, school board, public service and special events. She also taught television production classes to adult and student volunteers, and won several awards for outstanding programming and community service.
In 2002, Josie assisted with research and development on a biographical book featuring singer/actress Cher.
In the fall of 2003, Josie was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer and underwent several surgeries and chemotherapy with unsuccessful results. She relocated to Houston for additional treatment at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, including radiation therapy for a second recurrence. In March of 2006, the cancer had returned for a third time resulting in a bilateral mastectomy and additional chemotherapy.
Presently, Josie continues to undergo treatment while actively crusading for breast cancer awareness, education and advocacy. She is a member of the National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC) and Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and volunteers her time with local and national organizations, support groups and charitable events.
Josie has been married since 1979 to her college sweetheart, Tony, a management consultant. They have one son, Dalip, a recent graduate of law school.
