Summary

“Cease Not till Death”, pages 119 - 145. Part 2 of the book begins with a narrative return to the setting of the first section of Part 1: Kalanithi’s hospital room immediately following his diagnosis (lung cancer). Over the next few days, he writes, his family gathered, members being present when he began conversations with his oncologist (cancer specialist), Emma Hayward. Kalanithi describes knowing her slightly, and having worked with her; having a good feeling about working with her (as did Lucy); but being somewhat surprised at her consistent refusal to talk about survival rates and statistics. He describes Emma’s discussing options for treatment with him; his father and other family members telling him that he’s going to beat the cancer and resume his life; and how he himself contemplated the many ways in which his life had changed.

While waiting to learn what...