Just Diagnosed

Just Diagnosed, written by Arlene Karole, is based on her personal experiences. It is dedicated to helping others become self-aware and empowered by taking charge of a breast cancer diagnosis.


Just Diagnosed started with scores of sticky notes as certified healthcare professional Arlene Karole began navigating the early stages of her own diagnosis. Voluminous research and numerous consultations with doctors and discussions with friends followed, ultimately leading to this book, which is designed to teach, inspire, and empower. No matter your unique diagnosis, stage of breast cancer, stage of life, or gender (men get breast cancer too), you have choices regarding your attitude, approach, and health-care decisions.


Karole employs incredible candor, an often-humorous approach, and a great deal of vulnerability in connecting with her readers. She provides resources, checklists, and definitions. This book is designed as a road map through a breast cancer diagnosis; it's a step-by-step guide on what you can expect, what you need to know, and what to do next—from initial diagnosis through the difficult decisions ahead.


In Just Diagnosed, Karole helps readers grapple with this most intimate disease. With her book as a guide, you will face this news with great friends—even "breast friends"—courage, and fearlessness, knowing you do have choices, you are in control and most of all, you are not alone.