Monday, 25 April 2016

Tea and Chemo by Jackie Buxton (Non-Fiction, Memoir, 9/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

 February 2016, Urbane Publications, 240 pages, Paperback, Review copy 

Summary from Urbane Publications
At the age of 45, wife and mother Jackie Buxton was diagnosed with breast cancer. Lurching between the crippling fear that the cancer had spread, and the great comfort of knowing she was one of the lucky ones who could be treated, she did what she always does when life presents her with a challenge: she wrote it down.

Jackie quickly realised that even with cancer, life was far from bad. Never known for her scientific prowess, she nonetheless became a ‘bit of an expert’ – at least in the field of hair loss, water retention and biscuits – and decided to use her writing to share experiences and help others recognise you don’t have to be defined by your cancer.

Nayu's thoughts
Having had several friends go through in the past few years I liked the personal insight Jackie gives to fighting cancer. Her experience was a bit different to my friends as she had children to take care of. I could relate a lot of the sentiments through my own health issues-it's so true that you can develop an odd sense of humour which others can find inappropriate, but which you think is rather funny. 

Jackie talks through all aspects of having chemo, especially how she feels about it, which is a bit brave of her, as well as important issues like whether to wear a wig, forgetfulness and the incredible fatigue which I most definitely relate to. She does get a bit down about it, but manages to pick herself up thanks to those she loves being there for her. A good read if you are or know someone affected by cancer. 

Find out more on Jackie's website

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