“There is no question that breast cancer is unfriendly. The success of Dr. Rourke’s effort is in taking away the fear, confusion, and uncertainty of the diagnosis by introducing a friendly voice that is supportive, caring, and professional. Her words resonate with the reader, whether they have breast cancer, are a survivor, or are just interested in learning about this disease.

Once I started reading, I could not put it down. I loved the easy-speak of Dr. Rourke’s language to the reader, as well as the story line being shared. She manages to erase the boundary of physician and patient by developing a natural bond with her patients that breaks down taboos and misinformation with science, facts, and humor.

I congratulate Dr. Rourke and hope that this will be read by not only patients and their families but also by physicians in training to marry the excellence of science with art when caring for another human being.

I have been caring for patients with breast cancer for more than three decades. It can take days and weeks to break down the cloak of fear that patients live with post-op. If all patients were exposed to Dr. Rourke’s compassion and professionalism at the very onset of diagnosis, all subsequent steps in their care would move forward so much easier―for the patient, their caretaker, and the medical community that cares for them.

Bravo. This book is a must-read!”

― Dr. Maria Theodoulou, MD

Professor Emeritus of Medicine, Joan and Sanford Weill Medical College of Cornell University; Hally Yaccino Steiner Award Recipient, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Greater New York City

"Dr. Rourke invites you into her consult room for an in-depth conversation about breast cancer that is both personal and universal. Real Talk, Real Hope is an engaging dialogue that can easily be read cover-to-cover or used intermittently as a trusted reference throughout the journey of breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. This book will become an outstanding and trusted reference for women fighting breast cancer and their loved ones. It offers an uplifting message of hope while delivering essential information in a candid, simplified way that anyone can understand."

― Dr. Steven Benjamin Albright, MD

Founder, Albright Plastic Surgery

"Dr. Rourke's extensive experience as an MD Anderson-trained breast surgeon is now available to everyone through this outstanding, uplifting, patient-centered book. She provides a vast amount of knowledge and insight into breast cancer, a portion of which goes unspoken in routine care. Women (and men!) should read this book so we can all be better informed and win our fight against breast cancer."

― Dr. Robert W. Maxwell, MD, FACR

Past Enterprise Chair, Breast Imaging and Intervention, Mayo Clinic