July 14, 2000

Arthur Durante has had cancer for 35 years. Diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease at the age of 21, he has lived with cancer longer than without. Durante recently wrote a book with the help of Perry Colmore, a two-time breast cancer survivor, about his struggle to survive. Colmore created the Wall of Hope, an exhibit of cancer survivors who have been treated at the MGH, which is on display in the Cox Lobby.

Colmore first met Durante three years ago at a cancer survivors day during which she gave a speech about her experiences. It was then that Durante asked her to help write his story. Colmore did not think about the request again until months later when she was asked by the MGH to prepare the Wall of Hope. Durante was the first cancer survivor Colmore interviewed, and two days later she offered to write his story.

From left, Colmore, Durante, Kathleen Pollquin, RN, and Susan Durante

Their book, entitled, Sunrise Sunset: Arthur Said No to Cancer – Keeping Hope Alive, now is available and can be purchased in the Cancer Resource Room, Cox 1. Durante and Colmore came to the MGH for a book signing June 28. All profits from book sales will go to the Durante Fund at the MGH. This fund supports the Susan and Arthur Durante Award to recognize MGH staff whose work with cancer patients reflects outstanding compassion, caring and exemplary performance. Recipients of the award receive $1,000 for activities to support their personal relaxation and respite.

Durante has been not only a patient at the MGH but also a volunteer and benefactor. Kate Grimes, PT, MS, CCS, who has provided care to Durante, says about his book: "It comes as no surprise to me that Arthur would want to share his struggle with others. He has a way of surviving, and through his strength, brings others along with him. He always wants to share and include other people and help them value life."

Durante says he wrote this book for two reasons. "First, because I think it will help and inspire other people with cancer," he says. "And second because, when I get depressed, I want to pick it up so I can remember how to fight again."