This Might Surprise You: A Breast Cancer Story

(Hardback)

Publishing Details

Classifications

Physical Properties

Description

'Its as if Hayley has been inside my head and captured every thought I had during treatment . . . an honest, brave, no-holds barred account'
Liz O'Riordan, surgeon and breast cancer survivor

Hilarious, complex, honest and profound. Every page made me laugh. Most of them also made me cry.
Ian Dunt, political journalist and broadcaster

In This Might Surprise You: A Breast Cancer Story, Hayley Gullen maps the physical and emotional trajectory of her diagnosis, treatment and recovery from breast cancer. But this is no ordinary memoir: told in a distinctive cartoon format, Hayley recounts in detail the reality of an experience by turns devastating, painful, absurd and ultimately life-affirming.

In the UK, one in seven women will be affected by breast cancer at some point in their lives. Providing indispensable advice on navigating the medical system, bridging the doctor-patient divide, and compassionately communicating with your partner, children and loved ones as you go through the experience together this book offers crucial support and hope.

Hayleys storytelling and cartoons are perfectly paired to show the emotional ups and downs of living with cancer. This book is a companion for those going through treatment themselves, helping them to feel less alone, as well as for their loved ones.

Reviews

...bravely explores this life changing journey, with both pathos, grit and humor * Sonja O'Hara, Emmy-nominated filmmaker and actress *

Author Bio

Hayley Gullen is a freelance grant writer and lives in South London with her husband and daughter. In May 2022 Hayley was diagnosed with primary breast cancer at the age of 37. She went through chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and various other treatments and is now doing well, but her life will never quite be the same again. In 2023 an excerpt of her graphic memoir was shortlisted for the Caliburn Prize.