Russ Fahrner was born in Chicago in 1949 and recently celebrated his 53rd wedding anniversary with his wife, Pat. Together they have three children and three grandchildren. One of the highlights of this past year was Russ achieving total remission and survivorship from Leukemia. He and Pat spend more than four months each year in Florida, where Russ enjoys two of his greatest passions outside of family: water and boating. Russ attended Quigley South and graduated from St. Ignatius High School. He earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota, a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University,... Read More
Face Your Monster
July 1, 2026
Trade Paperback
Available for pre-order now!
$25.00
Face Your Monster chronicles Russ Fahrner’s eight-phase journey through treatment, including a grueling five-week hospitalization for a stem cell transplant.
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Russ Fahrner
Author
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Surely, Russ’s remarkably open and honest detailing of every step of his Warrior’s battle with, and ultimate victory over, his Leukemia Monster, will offer wisdom and invaluable practical guidance to those facing similar Monsters. However, as Russ walks the reader through the ominous journey of his stem cell transplant to his new “Survivorship” phase of life, a parallel personal journey emerges – that of his Warrior and its relationship with his Leukemia Monster. Initially manifesting itself as courageous, mentally tough, disciplined and focused on the battle before him, Russ’s Warrior, with the love and help of his wife, family and friends, thoughtfully builds a community of support and invites this “tribe” to share in his story. Gradually, a different Warrior begins to emerge, one who holds a deeper understanding of his Leukemia Monster, of the multiple dimensions of his “Survivorship” and of the healing power of entrusting others with one’s stories. Thumbs Up, Russ!
Summary
On June 12, 2024, Russ Fahrner received a call from his primary care physician following a physical. The reason? A routine blood donation had been declined weeks earlier, and the explanation was now clear—his white blood cell count was dangerously elevated. Within days, an oncologist confirmed the life-altering diagnosis: Leukemia. Face Your Monster chronicles Russ’s eight-phase journey through treatment, including a grueling five-week hospitalization for a stem cell transplant. But this is more than a medical account—it’s a story of resilience, love, and unwavering support. Told through vivid metaphor, Russ and his wife Pat—his devoted caregiver— confront the Monster of Leukemia together. As they rally their army of warriors, they uncover profound lessons about courage, patience, caregiving, and navigating life’s most difficult battles. Spanning 13 compelling chapters, this book offers hope, insight, and inspiration for anyone facing adversity.