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Intensive Care: True Stories of Healing, Heartache and Hope from Inside Irish Children's Medicine
IT ALL RESTS ON A STORY. THIS IS ONE YOU WON'T FORGET.
In these pages, Dr Suzanne Crowe opens the doors to a world few ever the charged and fragile realm of paediatric intensive care. From her earliest days as a junior doctor to becoming one of Ireland's leading specialists, she shares extraordinary stories of the children she's treated, the families who've loved them and the moments when life hung by a thread.
But this is not only a book about medicine. It is about how the healing begins with a doctor bearing witness and being present. It is about what it means to offer hope when certainty is gone. At its heart lies the searing personal loss of Suzanne's own child, Beatrice - a grief that reshaped her as a doctor and as a person.
Written with honesty and a clinician's eye for detail, this is a story of deep compassion and unflinching truth. At a time of turmoil for children's medicine in Ireland, we are reminded that the real work lies not just in saving lives, but in holding space for them - with courage, humility and love. A profoundly human memoir from a doctor whose work has touched many lives.
In these pages, Dr Suzanne Crowe opens the doors to a world few ever the charged and fragile realm of paediatric intensive care. From her earliest days as a junior doctor to becoming one of Ireland's leading specialists, she shares extraordinary stories of the children she's treated, the families who've loved them and the moments when life hung by a thread.
But this is not only a book about medicine. It is about how the healing begins with a doctor bearing witness and being present. It is about what it means to offer hope when certainty is gone. At its heart lies the searing personal loss of Suzanne's own child, Beatrice - a grief that reshaped her as a doctor and as a person.
Written with honesty and a clinician's eye for detail, this is a story of deep compassion and unflinching truth. At a time of turmoil for children's medicine in Ireland, we are reminded that the real work lies not just in saving lives, but in holding space for them - with courage, humility and love. A profoundly human memoir from a doctor whose work has touched many lives.
- GenresNonfiction
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Published August 28, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
January 3, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
This one was tough to get through, but that’s only because it describes tough realities those in pediatric healthcare face. Such a touching read with very precious pearls of wisdom throughout.
This one was tough to get through, but that’s only because it describes tough realities those in pediatric healthcare face. Such a touching read with very precious pearls of wisdom throughout.
September 8, 2025
Intensive Care by Dr Suzanne Crowe published with Hachette Ireland August 28th and is described as 'a moving memoir of children's medicine, personal loss and one doctor's unforgettable healing journey'. She is currently a consultant in paediatric intensive care in CHI Crumlin and president of the Irish Medical Council.
Dealing with critically ill children on a daily basis is a job that most of us will never experience. Many parents, including myself, have faced the horror of rushing our children to hospital in the early hours in a blind panic, full of fear and anxiety for what may lie ahead. For Dr Suzanne Crowe and her colleagues this is their lives. With an incredible understanding and an inner strength these medical angels offer compassion and empathy helping parents and guardians through these absolutely terrifying times.
In this memoir Suzanne explores her early years as a medical student with insights into her own personal battles as she considered stepping away from medicine as a career. But wise words from other corners encouraged her to continue with her studies. Over the years she adapted to this new world, married and had children of her own. Her career progressed and although some days were tougher than others, she remained steadfast in her decision to progress her career, often forfeiting personal moments with her family.
On a holiday in France with her husband Barry and their children, Suzanne faced difficulties with a pregnancy and had to endure the unimaginable when her time with her new baby Beatrice was to be momentary. Losing Beatrice was a life-changing experience but from this pain grew her determination and belief that paediatrics, specifically in intensive care, was where she wanted to specialise and focus her energies. Her own personal loss gave her a better understanding of the raw pain and anguish that parents endure in a children's hospital and she wanted to help. Challenging lessons about communicating honesty and hope were learnt along the way and in her memoir Suzanne is very open about the mistakes she made, citing particular anonymous cases where she knew she had stepped out of line. How to manage the expectations of parents was a tough lesson learnt but it also was a necessary one along her own personal journey.
Throughout her memoir, Suzanne mentions her own personal life and the impact her career had on her young family. Missing sports events, birthday celebrations and other family moments made her more determined to value the precious minutes and hours she spent with her children. She did her best over the years to protect her children from her job. It was difficult to compartmentalise her work and her family life but the decision to work in such a harrowing environment was hers, not one that her own family needed to hear about.
The stories that are recounted throughout these pages are difficult but for every story of sorrow there are stories of hope and love. I am always blown away by the determination of staff and family to ensure that the children's ward is one filled with compassion and warmth. Suzanne speaks about the people she worked with over the years and their ability to pick up on the need of a child, or a family member, at any given time. In a role where one is always learning, she mentions how managing expectations is vital but also how she and her colleagues choose to speak to a parent is also as important. So much trauma can trigger a number of emotions, including anger and verbal abuse, but Suzanne Crowe and her staff manage to listen and diffuse the situation by being honest but also offering support and a shoulder to cry on.
Suzanne Crowe is an exceptional individual with a steely determination to do right within her realm as an advocate for children's rights. Within these pages, there are stories full of courageous children and their families. Amongst the suffering and pain, there are life-affirming moments filled with warmth and hope. Although set in an Irish environment, I have no doubt that similar stories are told in hospitals across the globe. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into a PICU (Paediatric Intensive Care Unit) is an eye-opening and impacting experience but one that will also leave you optimistic for the care of children in a medical setting.
An extremely affecting read. Intensive Care is an incredibly honest, brave and profound memoir about the life and work of Dr Suzanne Crowe to date. Child mortality has decreased over the years and, with the right people involved, we can only hope that more families get to bring their children home with them to where they belong.
Dealing with critically ill children on a daily basis is a job that most of us will never experience. Many parents, including myself, have faced the horror of rushing our children to hospital in the early hours in a blind panic, full of fear and anxiety for what may lie ahead. For Dr Suzanne Crowe and her colleagues this is their lives. With an incredible understanding and an inner strength these medical angels offer compassion and empathy helping parents and guardians through these absolutely terrifying times.
In this memoir Suzanne explores her early years as a medical student with insights into her own personal battles as she considered stepping away from medicine as a career. But wise words from other corners encouraged her to continue with her studies. Over the years she adapted to this new world, married and had children of her own. Her career progressed and although some days were tougher than others, she remained steadfast in her decision to progress her career, often forfeiting personal moments with her family.
On a holiday in France with her husband Barry and their children, Suzanne faced difficulties with a pregnancy and had to endure the unimaginable when her time with her new baby Beatrice was to be momentary. Losing Beatrice was a life-changing experience but from this pain grew her determination and belief that paediatrics, specifically in intensive care, was where she wanted to specialise and focus her energies. Her own personal loss gave her a better understanding of the raw pain and anguish that parents endure in a children's hospital and she wanted to help. Challenging lessons about communicating honesty and hope were learnt along the way and in her memoir Suzanne is very open about the mistakes she made, citing particular anonymous cases where she knew she had stepped out of line. How to manage the expectations of parents was a tough lesson learnt but it also was a necessary one along her own personal journey.
Throughout her memoir, Suzanne mentions her own personal life and the impact her career had on her young family. Missing sports events, birthday celebrations and other family moments made her more determined to value the precious minutes and hours she spent with her children. She did her best over the years to protect her children from her job. It was difficult to compartmentalise her work and her family life but the decision to work in such a harrowing environment was hers, not one that her own family needed to hear about.
The stories that are recounted throughout these pages are difficult but for every story of sorrow there are stories of hope and love. I am always blown away by the determination of staff and family to ensure that the children's ward is one filled with compassion and warmth. Suzanne speaks about the people she worked with over the years and their ability to pick up on the need of a child, or a family member, at any given time. In a role where one is always learning, she mentions how managing expectations is vital but also how she and her colleagues choose to speak to a parent is also as important. So much trauma can trigger a number of emotions, including anger and verbal abuse, but Suzanne Crowe and her staff manage to listen and diffuse the situation by being honest but also offering support and a shoulder to cry on.
Suzanne Crowe is an exceptional individual with a steely determination to do right within her realm as an advocate for children's rights. Within these pages, there are stories full of courageous children and their families. Amongst the suffering and pain, there are life-affirming moments filled with warmth and hope. Although set in an Irish environment, I have no doubt that similar stories are told in hospitals across the globe. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into a PICU (Paediatric Intensive Care Unit) is an eye-opening and impacting experience but one that will also leave you optimistic for the care of children in a medical setting.
An extremely affecting read. Intensive Care is an incredibly honest, brave and profound memoir about the life and work of Dr Suzanne Crowe to date. Child mortality has decreased over the years and, with the right people involved, we can only hope that more families get to bring their children home with them to where they belong.
October 5, 2025
Dr Suzanne Crowe’s Intensive Care: True Stories of Healing, Heartache and Hope from Inside Irish Children's Medicine is a deeply moving yet surprisingly gentle read. While the subject matter—paediatric intensive care—might suggest emotional heaviness, Crowe’s storytelling brings warmth, humanity, and even moments of quiet joy to the page.
What makes this memoir so compelling is its balance. Crowe writes with clinical precision but never loses the emotional thread. Her reflections on the children she’s cared for, the families she’s supported, and the colleagues she’s worked alongside are filled with compassion and humility. The book doesn’t shy away from the heartbreak, especially when she shares the loss of her own daughter, Beatrice—a moment that reshapes the narrative with raw honesty.
Yet, it’s not a book that leaves you feeling weighed down. There’s a lightness in Crowe’s voice, a sense of resilience and grace that carries the reader through even the most difficult chapters. Her ability to find hope in uncertainty and meaning in the smallest gestures is quietly inspiring.
This isn’t just a medical memoir—it’s a tribute to the power of presence, empathy, and bearing witness. Whether you’re in healthcare or simply curious about the human stories behind the hospital walls, Intensive Care offers a rare glimpse into a world where courage and kindness go hand in hand
What makes this memoir so compelling is its balance. Crowe writes with clinical precision but never loses the emotional thread. Her reflections on the children she’s cared for, the families she’s supported, and the colleagues she’s worked alongside are filled with compassion and humility. The book doesn’t shy away from the heartbreak, especially when she shares the loss of her own daughter, Beatrice—a moment that reshapes the narrative with raw honesty.
Yet, it’s not a book that leaves you feeling weighed down. There’s a lightness in Crowe’s voice, a sense of resilience and grace that carries the reader through even the most difficult chapters. Her ability to find hope in uncertainty and meaning in the smallest gestures is quietly inspiring.
This isn’t just a medical memoir—it’s a tribute to the power of presence, empathy, and bearing witness. Whether you’re in healthcare or simply curious about the human stories behind the hospital walls, Intensive Care offers a rare glimpse into a world where courage and kindness go hand in hand
September 5, 2025
I literally could not put this book down.The washing climbed the walls , the dishes sat in the sink and I stole every spare minute I could until this page turner was read.
And when I was finished reading it I realised , all that other stuff I had let build up was completely irrelevant in the grand scheme of things.
This book is beautifully written , you can see the stories come to life in your head with the author's incredible , almost poetic , way with words .
I cried silently at some chapters whilst being transported into another world.
I can only hope I never visit that place in reality, but to be allowed this insight into that world has been life changing .
You will put this book down with a different perspective on what really matters.
And the realisation that earth angels walk amongst us.
And when I was finished reading it I realised , all that other stuff I had let build up was completely irrelevant in the grand scheme of things.
This book is beautifully written , you can see the stories come to life in your head with the author's incredible , almost poetic , way with words .
I cried silently at some chapters whilst being transported into another world.
I can only hope I never visit that place in reality, but to be allowed this insight into that world has been life changing .
You will put this book down with a different perspective on what really matters.
And the realisation that earth angels walk amongst us.
October 4, 2025
This truely remarkable book completely captures the world of paediatric intensive care- the pathos, compassion, humanity and the challenges. It captures the tragedy and the the uplifting in the highest of stressful times. The author’s courage in sharing her own personal story so honestly is inspiring and humbling. As an intensivist, this book perfectly encapsulates what we do, how we do it and what keeps us going back. The resilience of families, the power of teamwork and friendship and the little moments in each story. Highly recommended. Read it.
September 4, 2025
A beautiful read with incredible storytelling highlighting the amazing work done in the PICU. Each chapter will pull at your heartstrings and make you hug your children in appreciation. As a new first-time father, this book made me feel massive gratitude to have a happy, healthy baby and filled me with admiration for the strong, fantastic parents who stay resilient to ensure their children have the best care when needed.
September 29, 2025
Profound, deeply moving, unputdownable. As a reader you almost want to look away and dig your head in the sand regarding the fragilities of life but the compassion and humanity of the author who writes with a powerful authenticity keeps you turning the pages. I finished it in two sittings and the stories carefully told and lessons kindly shared, will stay with me for a long time.
A must read on many levels.
A must read on many levels.
September 26, 2025
I lost count of how many times this book moved me to tears. It was powerful and so respectful of the stories it told. I found the self reflective sections in particular really insightful. I would love it if there was a follow up, I found myself wanting more when it was over because I was completely enthralled.
September 26, 2025
A wonderful insight into life in hospitals and healthcare (both from those who work there and those who attend) but through a truly empathetic and personal lens. A real story of resilience, hope and capturing the magic of meaningful human interactions. This breaks down barriers and reshapes traditional views of medicine and care.
November 3, 2025
I’m a doctor training in anaesthesia and intensive care, and loved this book. Written in a very accessible way, this book shows compassion and positivity, but also the realities of working with critically ill children - we don’t always get it right. There are often ideals that cannot be met, and everyone involved is human and doing their best for the love of children.
January 14, 2026
One of the most moving books I've ever read.
The primary focus on the children, their families and their impact on Dr Suzanne Crowe throughout her career is incredible, it really shows the humanity behind working in healthcare. Would recommend this book to everyone!
The primary focus on the children, their families and their impact on Dr Suzanne Crowe throughout her career is incredible, it really shows the humanity behind working in healthcare. Would recommend this book to everyone!
September 4, 2025
I couldn’t put this book down. Honest, uplifting, life-affirming. Simply a beautiful book.
November 6, 2025
A great read!
November 8, 2025
Loved every single page. Beautifully written.
December 16, 2025
One of the best books I’ve ever read
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews