Product Description
My Best Worst Year: A personal and authentic account of one woman’s experience
Author: Alison Tucker
Format: Trade Paperback
‘Alison, I’ve got bad news.’ The voice of the pathologist at the other end of the telephone confirmed for Alison Tucker the news no woman ever wants to hear: she had breast cancer. Once the shock had settled, Alison decided that she would take charge. Not only would she take ownership of the dreaded disease, but she would do so with a positive mindset and prepare herself as best she could for what was to come. She did detailed research and paid close heed to what she was told by others who had walked the path before her.
As she navigated her way through surgery and the chemotherapy and radiotherapy that followed, Alison’s determination paid off. Not only did she make new friends, but she learnt valuable life lessons too: acceptance of the illness for what it was, the amazing impact of ongoing advances in medical science, and the importance of being able to ask for – and receive – help. In My Best Worst Year – A Breast Cancer Story Alison gives us an authentic account of her experience, offering insights and advice for others who might one day face the same diagnosis.
You will accompany her on her highs, empathise with her lows, and be amused by humorous anecdotes along the way. Through the generous support of family and friends, she has amassed a collection of practical tips for both patients and supporters which she shares with open-hearted honesty. What to take to chemotherapy sessions. What to look for when choosing a wig. What side effects a person can expect when having the various types of cancer treatment. What to say, and what not to say, to a cancer patient.
How to remove stress from a cancer patient’s life. What kind of gifts and gestures are most appreciated. Contrary to Alison’s expectations, her year of treatment turned out to be her best worst year. By telling her story, she underlines the importance of a positive attitude and hopes to show that a person can still lead a productive and enjoyable life even after being diagnosed with cancer. ‘I learnt the power of gratitude, a learning that I will cherish forever and that I will draw on in no small measure in the good times and the bad.’
About the Author
Alison Tucker, the author of My Best Worst Year – A Breast Cancer Story grew up in the Eastern Cape after spending her first three years of schooling in Namibia. With undergraduate majors in Business, Psychology and Mercantile Law from Rhodes University, she completed her master’s in commerce degree, focusing on innovation, something she has always been passionate about in the business world. She moved to Durban in the mid-80s to pursue a career in marketing. She spent sixteen years in the corporate world with roles in brand marketing, insight and media, before making the switch to the world of consulting. She worked for a global consulting company for ten years, during which she had the privilege of working across many industries, continents and cultures. She continues to consult to clients after starting her own consulting company seven years ago. Her projects are varied, ranging from things like facilitation, innovation and strategy development to corporate and brand positioning, skills development and team alignment. Alison lives in Durban with her partner of many years, Michael, and her much-adored cat, Kimba. Michael shares Alison’s love of travel, which makes for an interesting life, full of fun and adventure.
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