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Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days
Adrienne Wilson is a depressed, suicidal teenager--until the day she receives a diagnosis of stage IV liver cancer. Facing the fight of her life, Adrienne discovered just how much she wants to live. In Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days, Andrea Wilson Woods chronicles her sister's remarkable life, from the time she was born to the day she dies at age fifteen. Written like a journal, Andrea takes the reader inside her and Adrienne's journey explaining how she gained custody of Adrienne from their mother and how the sisters' relationship evolved over time. Adrienne's courageous spirit shines through as she squeezes more life into 147 days than most people do in a lifetime. From meeting Jay Leno to spending the day with Dave Navarro of Jane's Addiction, Adrienne makes every moment count.
As she lay dying, Adrienne teaches Andrea how to live.
As she lay dying, Adrienne teaches Andrea how to live.
394 pages, Paperback
Published October 15, 2019
108 people are currently reading
5104 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Wilson Woods
2 books66 followersANDREA WILSON WOODS is a keynote speaker, a writer who loves to tell stories, and a patient advocate who founded the nonprofit Blue Faery: The Adrienne Wilson Liver Cancer Association. For over ten years, Andrea worked in the education field as a teacher and professor for public and private schools as well as universities. Andrea obtained her master’s degree in professional writing from the University of Southern California; her nonfiction writing has won national awards. Her best-selling and award-winning book, Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days, is a medical memoir about raising and losing her sister to liver cancer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
January 12, 2020
Better Off Bald is a story of Adrienne Wilson, born in Birmingham, but lived with her elder sister Andrea in Los Angeles since she was eight years old. Adrienne was diagnosed with stage IV liver cancer and died at the age of fifteen, after fighting for 147 days.
Andrea Wilson Woods was not only Adrienne's sister but her legal guardian too. Their mother was a drug addict and lost Adrienne's custody. It is a journey of two siblings who don't see quitting as an option. When they find out about cancer, Andrea blames herself for things she can do but didn't. Adrienne never asked why me? She was brave and a bright teenager.
Adrienne was a scholar, loved going to school, and had high hopes for her future. Her life disintegrates slowly with her sister and John (Andrea's partner and a father figure for Adrienne). They go through a lot in those five months, but Adrienne lived her life, enjoyed every moment, met with her favorite celebrity, and never stops fighting. Her spiritedness gives hope to Andrea, who fought for her schooling and treatments continuously.
Andrea spends most of her time taking care of her little sister, and when financial crunch hits them, she spends the remaining time writing emails looking for aid. She even learned all the medical terms and maintains a journal of every single movement of Adrienne's. The chemo didn't do much in her situation. One drug was given to lessen the effect of the other one; for Andrea, it was a see-saw.
Adrienne's case was considered as a rare one. Andrea covers all the details of her sister's medication which she got, and which she doesn't. Despite all the exhaustion, fear, and shock Andrea and John tried their best to comfort her.
This book lets you through their daily struggles, teach you, acquaints you, and make you understand the importance of living every day to its fullest. Their bond grew stronger day by day. The book is filled with Adrienne's pictures and journal entries which make it more palpable. I recommend this book to everyone because Adrienne's story is admirable, inspiring, and worth of your time. Also, it's critical to create awareness of hepatitis and cancer.
Read more here - https://www.bookscharming.com/
Andrea Wilson Woods was not only Adrienne's sister but her legal guardian too. Their mother was a drug addict and lost Adrienne's custody. It is a journey of two siblings who don't see quitting as an option. When they find out about cancer, Andrea blames herself for things she can do but didn't. Adrienne never asked why me? She was brave and a bright teenager.
Adrienne was a scholar, loved going to school, and had high hopes for her future. Her life disintegrates slowly with her sister and John (Andrea's partner and a father figure for Adrienne). They go through a lot in those five months, but Adrienne lived her life, enjoyed every moment, met with her favorite celebrity, and never stops fighting. Her spiritedness gives hope to Andrea, who fought for her schooling and treatments continuously.
Andrea spends most of her time taking care of her little sister, and when financial crunch hits them, she spends the remaining time writing emails looking for aid. She even learned all the medical terms and maintains a journal of every single movement of Adrienne's. The chemo didn't do much in her situation. One drug was given to lessen the effect of the other one; for Andrea, it was a see-saw.
Adrienne's case was considered as a rare one. Andrea covers all the details of her sister's medication which she got, and which she doesn't. Despite all the exhaustion, fear, and shock Andrea and John tried their best to comfort her.
This book lets you through their daily struggles, teach you, acquaints you, and make you understand the importance of living every day to its fullest. Their bond grew stronger day by day. The book is filled with Adrienne's pictures and journal entries which make it more palpable. I recommend this book to everyone because Adrienne's story is admirable, inspiring, and worth of your time. Also, it's critical to create awareness of hepatitis and cancer.
Read more here - https://www.bookscharming.com/
November 14, 2019
Better Off Bald is an emotional read that carries a complicated family history. Understanding Andrea and Adrienne's family and friend dynamics is something else. Once I got them down in my head, the cancer diagnosis became a heavier reality to swallow. The title gives away the end result, so the book is really more about those surreal four months.
Cancer is different for every person, so reading about Stage IV for someone so young hits hard. Andrea doesn't hold back about how strenuous the experience is for everyone involved, including the disarming physical ailments and feelings of helplessness. It's also strangely enlightening. I appreciated the candid details about wrestling with financial problems, alternative treatments, medical professionals, and insurance problems; often these bits get tucked into the back pocket due to fear of libel. The other children in the hospital and the 504 meeting sticks out to me.
At the same time, Adrienne cheering everyone up is touching and heartwarming. Her humor lessens the pain but doesn't ignore it. While Andrea spends many passages beating herself up, Adrienne's sardonic smile makes the angst bearable. Precious reminders of life do that. After reading Adrienne's LiveJournal account (remember when that was a thing?), I do think Andrea is somewhat exaggerating her little sister's courage in her writings. Considering her situation, I probably would have done that too.
Being reminded of the time period multiple times is shockingly effective, just like the LiveJournal example. Wow, Adrienne didn't live to see the first Lord of the Rings film. Would she still be into fairies after watching it or would she have gone full elf? Maybe Gollum's more up her alley. Wonder how she would have liked smartphones, if at all. Thoughts like that tears me up a little.
While there is an earlier podcast version, I don't know how it compares to the book. Judging from the titles alone, I'm guessing the podcast is like an early audiobook version? I'll check it out later to see how it's like.
Better Off Bald is a story of grief and willfulness that took time for me to absorb. I hope other people can learn from it too. Thank you for sharing Adrienne and your story, Andrea. I'm glad you're helping others now with a career that speaks to you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Cancer is different for every person, so reading about Stage IV for someone so young hits hard. Andrea doesn't hold back about how strenuous the experience is for everyone involved, including the disarming physical ailments and feelings of helplessness. It's also strangely enlightening. I appreciated the candid details about wrestling with financial problems, alternative treatments, medical professionals, and insurance problems; often these bits get tucked into the back pocket due to fear of libel. The other children in the hospital and the 504 meeting sticks out to me.
At the same time, Adrienne cheering everyone up is touching and heartwarming. Her humor lessens the pain but doesn't ignore it. While Andrea spends many passages beating herself up, Adrienne's sardonic smile makes the angst bearable. Precious reminders of life do that. After reading Adrienne's LiveJournal account (remember when that was a thing?), I do think Andrea is somewhat exaggerating her little sister's courage in her writings. Considering her situation, I probably would have done that too.
Being reminded of the time period multiple times is shockingly effective, just like the LiveJournal example. Wow, Adrienne didn't live to see the first Lord of the Rings film. Would she still be into fairies after watching it or would she have gone full elf? Maybe Gollum's more up her alley. Wonder how she would have liked smartphones, if at all. Thoughts like that tears me up a little.
While there is an earlier podcast version, I don't know how it compares to the book. Judging from the titles alone, I'm guessing the podcast is like an early audiobook version? I'll check it out later to see how it's like.
Better Off Bald is a story of grief and willfulness that took time for me to absorb. I hope other people can learn from it too. Thank you for sharing Adrienne and your story, Andrea. I'm glad you're helping others now with a career that speaks to you.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 17, 2020
I stumbled upon this book purely by accident. I do a book challenge every year and one of the challenges for this month was to read a book with a bald character on the cover. I kept looking and looking and nothing was really grabbing me until I saw this one. I am so glad I read this book. As you can probably tell by the title it does not have a happy ending, but it was such a beautiful love letter from one sister to another. It basically tells the story of Adrienne who develops liver cancer at the very young age of 15 and basically goes through the last few months of her life interspersed with bits and pieces of her and her sister Andrea's past. The story is basically told through the eyes of Andrea as she is watching her baby sister, who she happens to be the legal guardian of, try to fight off this nasty disease, where the survival rate of this particular type of cancer at the stage she was at is I think somewhere around 5%. It is heart-wrenching. But, it is also heartwarming at times, because you really see how amazing and how truly loved this girl was.
This is not going to be everyone's cup of tea because it is incredibly sad. I held it together pretty well through most of the book but the last couple of chapters really did me in and I was bawling. But, I think it is also one of those reads that really makes you realize how fragile life really can be (and sometimes really, really unfair) and that it is important to live your life to the fullest and let the people you love know you love them all the time. Don't take one moment for granted.
This is not going to be everyone's cup of tea because it is incredibly sad. I held it together pretty well through most of the book but the last couple of chapters really did me in and I was bawling. But, I think it is also one of those reads that really makes you realize how fragile life really can be (and sometimes really, really unfair) and that it is important to live your life to the fullest and let the people you love know you love them all the time. Don't take one moment for granted.
November 2, 2019
The last time I read about a woman battling cancer, it was the incredible Patient 71 by Julie Randall. I was so moved by the book I actually met and keep in contact with Julie. Her story was so moving and at times hard to comprehend, which made me wonder if I could handle reading about a young teenager going through the same battles. I’m glad to say that I took the plunge and read the story of Andrea and Adrienne.
Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days is a very moving, sometimes difficult to read but incredible book. The detail about the medications and procedures is something usually glossed over, but gives the reader a real sense of what it’s like navigating a confusing and complicated medical system and prescriptions.
Young Adrienne’s life, from the moment she was born, when she was diagnosed with liver cancer, and right up until the day she died at just 15 is laid bare and is a testament to two sisters love and strength.
The book is easy to read and the flashbacks and diary entries are clear enough so the reader knows where they are in the timeline. The photos and snapshots of young Adrienne also bring a dose of reality to the reader. This isn’t a fictional character, and stories like Adrienne happen are played out every day.
Although the focus of the book is about Adrienne and her cancer battle, I found myself more deeply connected to the story of her big sister Andrea, who had it incredibly tough and still took in her sister, demonstrating the incredible bond between the two. Her strength and support shines out from the pages and it broke my heart when that bond was eventually split apart.
Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days is a very moving, sometimes difficult to read but incredible book. The detail about the medications and procedures is something usually glossed over, but gives the reader a real sense of what it’s like navigating a confusing and complicated medical system and prescriptions.
Young Adrienne’s life, from the moment she was born, when she was diagnosed with liver cancer, and right up until the day she died at just 15 is laid bare and is a testament to two sisters love and strength.
The book is easy to read and the flashbacks and diary entries are clear enough so the reader knows where they are in the timeline. The photos and snapshots of young Adrienne also bring a dose of reality to the reader. This isn’t a fictional character, and stories like Adrienne happen are played out every day.
Although the focus of the book is about Adrienne and her cancer battle, I found myself more deeply connected to the story of her big sister Andrea, who had it incredibly tough and still took in her sister, demonstrating the incredible bond between the two. Her strength and support shines out from the pages and it broke my heart when that bond was eventually split apart.
November 2, 2019
A heartfelt and very detailed book on terminal cancer and a beautiful tribute to the author’s fierce and creative sister. I started Better Off Bald in a flight back from Paris, not realizing how much it would touch me. Although it’s quite a long book, I felt the urge to keep reading. Andrea has a brilliant style and, as someone who has been in a palliative care unit taking care of a loved one with terminal cancer, I found myself relating to Andrea’s feelings and experiences so much.
A truly poignant memoir.
A truly poignant memoir.
October 27, 2019
OMG! Well written, SO EMOTIONAL!
I have no words. This is not pity, this is me being emotional. This is raw, good, well written, it gets to you... if you have a heart and soul!
You have to read this!!!
ARC received through NetGalley. This is my honest review. All opinions are my own.
I have no words. This is not pity, this is me being emotional. This is raw, good, well written, it gets to you... if you have a heart and soul!
You have to read this!!!
ARC received through NetGalley. This is my honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 14, 2019
An amazing memoir.
At the start of her book, the author is 13. And moving, which also means a new high school. With mum. She didn't know at the time, but mum had another baby on the way. Her sister. Then it jumps ahead to where her little sister is 15. Her young sister started being ill in 2001. 18 years ago.
Written in the present-not the past. As things are happening. The diagnosis is confirmed. It's very bad. Everything moves so fast, and the writing reflects this. Tumbles straight into Adrienne's symptoms, seeing the doctor, and the shock diagnosis.
This is presented in a day by day diary/journal format, which is a favourite of mine. Then it has flashes back to when she was 13. When things were different. There are clear divisions/scene breaks in the book so it’s easy to see past/present.
This is a beautiful tribute to her sister. Not just about her cancer; about their whole lives together. You can't fail to be touched by this moving and emotional memoir. I love medical memoirs, and this one is certainly an excellent example. It always feels wrong to say…..I mean, how can you say that you're enjoying a book when it's about such tragic circumstances? What it is, is that the author is so skilled at telling the circumstances and you're gripped to read more and you feel all their emotions.
Andrea cancels job offers etc. She will focus on looking after her sick sister. There is no one else; with both parents out of the picture, Andrea is both sister, and mother to Adrienne. The book moved me so much. No one should have to go through this. The book, Andrea, and her memoir cast a spell over me. I just couldn't stop reading it.
Extracts from Adrienne's own journal begin each chapter/Day. Such a brave young lady. Such a strong-minded young girl. She keeps cheerful-often things she says touch you so much. Many issues, and many struggles, and Adrienne's cancer will be the ultimate struggle. The worst thing they've ever had to face. Most chapters/Days have a photo at the end.
I've read quite a few cancer memoirs-this is much more than that as it has memories from all their lives together-this is one of the best. I wasn't even halfway through and I had already added it to my five star books list.
Very detailed. Meds all named; their effects and side effects-drug combinations. Different procedures. Far more info than the usual cancer memoir-yet it never gets repetitive. Happy days out on good days. Then the dark days filled with pain and yet more procedures. I read these last chapters with a knot in my chest.
Andrea was both sister and mum to Adrienne. And Adrienne was everything to her. This book is a beautiful tribute to a unique and remarkable young lady. The book isn't all dark days, Adrienne often has smiles-even in the later stages of the book, and she still has a little joke with her sis.
So touching, and incredibly moving. A heart-stoppingly brilliant memoir.
At the start of her book, the author is 13. And moving, which also means a new high school. With mum. She didn't know at the time, but mum had another baby on the way. Her sister. Then it jumps ahead to where her little sister is 15. Her young sister started being ill in 2001. 18 years ago.
Written in the present-not the past. As things are happening. The diagnosis is confirmed. It's very bad. Everything moves so fast, and the writing reflects this. Tumbles straight into Adrienne's symptoms, seeing the doctor, and the shock diagnosis.
This is presented in a day by day diary/journal format, which is a favourite of mine. Then it has flashes back to when she was 13. When things were different. There are clear divisions/scene breaks in the book so it’s easy to see past/present.
This is a beautiful tribute to her sister. Not just about her cancer; about their whole lives together. You can't fail to be touched by this moving and emotional memoir. I love medical memoirs, and this one is certainly an excellent example. It always feels wrong to say…..I mean, how can you say that you're enjoying a book when it's about such tragic circumstances? What it is, is that the author is so skilled at telling the circumstances and you're gripped to read more and you feel all their emotions.
Andrea cancels job offers etc. She will focus on looking after her sick sister. There is no one else; with both parents out of the picture, Andrea is both sister, and mother to Adrienne. The book moved me so much. No one should have to go through this. The book, Andrea, and her memoir cast a spell over me. I just couldn't stop reading it.
Extracts from Adrienne's own journal begin each chapter/Day. Such a brave young lady. Such a strong-minded young girl. She keeps cheerful-often things she says touch you so much. Many issues, and many struggles, and Adrienne's cancer will be the ultimate struggle. The worst thing they've ever had to face. Most chapters/Days have a photo at the end.
I've read quite a few cancer memoirs-this is much more than that as it has memories from all their lives together-this is one of the best. I wasn't even halfway through and I had already added it to my five star books list.
Very detailed. Meds all named; their effects and side effects-drug combinations. Different procedures. Far more info than the usual cancer memoir-yet it never gets repetitive. Happy days out on good days. Then the dark days filled with pain and yet more procedures. I read these last chapters with a knot in my chest.
Andrea was both sister and mum to Adrienne. And Adrienne was everything to her. This book is a beautiful tribute to a unique and remarkable young lady. The book isn't all dark days, Adrienne often has smiles-even in the later stages of the book, and she still has a little joke with her sis.
So touching, and incredibly moving. A heart-stoppingly brilliant memoir.
November 5, 2019
This memoir about two sisters is also about a mom and daughter; they are the same people. Andrea has custody of her "kiddo" Adrienne, because their mother is not able to take care of her daughter (more about that in the book), and Adrienne's father is deceased.
When author Andrea Wilson Woods finds out that her beloved younger sister/daughter has a rare liver cancer, she does everything possible within her means to cure - or at least buy time - for 15-year-old Adrienne. Mapped out in a series of days, we read about various medical treatments involved in slowing down the tumors, including an ever-lengthening list of medications needed. As time goes on, the reality is that many of these cancer treatments have side-effects that are worse than the disease itself. Andrea, with the help of her boyfriend John (who is a father figure for Adrienne) endeavors to mitigate those effects with other medications and treatments prescribed by Adrienne's physicians.
Lighthearted moments with humor and joy thread through the chapters, too: Arienne gets to meet up with her favorite musician, twice! She also strives to live her days as fully as she can. Her sister/mother Andrea does everything possible to prolong Adrienne's life, and to bring any amount of happiness to her sister, while she can. This book is ultimately about infinite love. As one who lost a sister at 16 and a brother to cancer, there was no way that I could close this book without shedding quite a few tears myself.
When author Andrea Wilson Woods finds out that her beloved younger sister/daughter has a rare liver cancer, she does everything possible within her means to cure - or at least buy time - for 15-year-old Adrienne. Mapped out in a series of days, we read about various medical treatments involved in slowing down the tumors, including an ever-lengthening list of medications needed. As time goes on, the reality is that many of these cancer treatments have side-effects that are worse than the disease itself. Andrea, with the help of her boyfriend John (who is a father figure for Adrienne) endeavors to mitigate those effects with other medications and treatments prescribed by Adrienne's physicians.
Lighthearted moments with humor and joy thread through the chapters, too: Arienne gets to meet up with her favorite musician, twice! She also strives to live her days as fully as she can. Her sister/mother Andrea does everything possible to prolong Adrienne's life, and to bring any amount of happiness to her sister, while she can. This book is ultimately about infinite love. As one who lost a sister at 16 and a brother to cancer, there was no way that I could close this book without shedding quite a few tears myself.
October 27, 2019
This biography written by the sister of Adrienne Wilson about her sister is heartbreaking, as Adrienne was a suicidal teen before being diagnosed with stage IV liver cancer. She decided at that point she wanted to live and
make the most of the time she had left, which turned out to be 147 days. Andrea writes about how she obtained custody of her sister and of their final days together. I highly recommend this book.
make the most of the time she had left, which turned out to be 147 days. Andrea writes about how she obtained custody of her sister and of their final days together. I highly recommend this book.
December 18, 2019
Good book. I enjoyed reading this story about sisters and one's battle with cancer.
November 29, 2019
What Made Me Read It I was sent a copy of the memoir in exchange for an honest review. The editor described it as a book where "Woods explores the true meaning of living and dying with heart and humor, as she comes to reconcile her life in the face of the ultimate loss - her fifteen year old sister, Adrienne". It sounded like an interesting and profound reading so I decided to give it a try.
The Good "Better off bald" is a memoir written in the first person through the eyes of the author, as she chronicles her 15-year-old sister Adrienne's fierce battle against cancer. Both their lives changed radically the day Adrienne was diagnosed with stage IV liver cancer, rare in teenagers. The author does not hold back and describes the emotional journey in great detail as the disease progresses over the course of 147 days: all the symptoms and side effects of both the cancer and the medication, treatments that cause more harm than good to the point where it's not even clear if the physical debilitation and suffering come from the devastating medical condition or the toxicity of the drugs prescribed, the financial difficulties that come from being unable to work to care for a loved one 24/7, the desperate search for alternate treatments that end up being unavailable due to federal laws based on profit alone, political rulings that get in the way of providing basic quality of life to young patients, dealing with medical staff too hardened by too many failures and losses... but also the psychological trauma that comes along such a diagnosis: the feelings of guilt, insecurity and helplessness, all the natural stages of grief from denial to anger, to bargaining with a god the author doesn't even believe in. It's a brutal reading that will move the reader to tears.
Written as a journal, each chapter starts with an entry by Adrienne herself: from her personal journal, letters and emails, even a short story; the book also includes personal photos taken from birth to the final days of her disease, adding and extra layer of reality and deepness to Adrienne and her struggle. The author goes back in time through flashbacks that explore their history, recounting events that introduce friends and family, illustrating how their bonds developed and strengthened over time despite all the damage caused by a prescription drug addict mother. But even through all the hardship, the memoir is filled with quirky humor and hope as Adrienne's personality and inner strength have her living each day to the fullest and still pursuing her dreams until the end, counting winnings in terms of good days and good hours and showing the unrelenting support of friends and even strangers.
The Not So Good Even though the flashbacks are meant to explore the sisters' history and bonds, some of those memories are included in the wrong sections: we're told of important facts (like the author having legal custody of her younger sister) and introduced to meaningful friends and loved ones (like Adrienne's "uncles") but those events and roles aren't explained until several chapters later, which makes it hard and confusing to keep tabs on who's who. If those particular memories were shared earlier in the book instead, it would help the readers to better understand the events and some of the people involved. It's the reason the memoir lost a star in the final rating.
Read the full review on: https://literaryportals.blogspot.com/...
Final Rating 4 of 5 stars. "Better off bald" is a memoir of the author's 15-year-old sister Adrienne's battle against a rare form of liver cancer. Recommended for those who enjoy biographies and with an interest in oncology, the progression of cancer and its effects on patients and family alike.
The Good "Better off bald" is a memoir written in the first person through the eyes of the author, as she chronicles her 15-year-old sister Adrienne's fierce battle against cancer. Both their lives changed radically the day Adrienne was diagnosed with stage IV liver cancer, rare in teenagers. The author does not hold back and describes the emotional journey in great detail as the disease progresses over the course of 147 days: all the symptoms and side effects of both the cancer and the medication, treatments that cause more harm than good to the point where it's not even clear if the physical debilitation and suffering come from the devastating medical condition or the toxicity of the drugs prescribed, the financial difficulties that come from being unable to work to care for a loved one 24/7, the desperate search for alternate treatments that end up being unavailable due to federal laws based on profit alone, political rulings that get in the way of providing basic quality of life to young patients, dealing with medical staff too hardened by too many failures and losses... but also the psychological trauma that comes along such a diagnosis: the feelings of guilt, insecurity and helplessness, all the natural stages of grief from denial to anger, to bargaining with a god the author doesn't even believe in. It's a brutal reading that will move the reader to tears.
Written as a journal, each chapter starts with an entry by Adrienne herself: from her personal journal, letters and emails, even a short story; the book also includes personal photos taken from birth to the final days of her disease, adding and extra layer of reality and deepness to Adrienne and her struggle. The author goes back in time through flashbacks that explore their history, recounting events that introduce friends and family, illustrating how their bonds developed and strengthened over time despite all the damage caused by a prescription drug addict mother. But even through all the hardship, the memoir is filled with quirky humor and hope as Adrienne's personality and inner strength have her living each day to the fullest and still pursuing her dreams until the end, counting winnings in terms of good days and good hours and showing the unrelenting support of friends and even strangers.
The Not So Good Even though the flashbacks are meant to explore the sisters' history and bonds, some of those memories are included in the wrong sections: we're told of important facts (like the author having legal custody of her younger sister) and introduced to meaningful friends and loved ones (like Adrienne's "uncles") but those events and roles aren't explained until several chapters later, which makes it hard and confusing to keep tabs on who's who. If those particular memories were shared earlier in the book instead, it would help the readers to better understand the events and some of the people involved. It's the reason the memoir lost a star in the final rating.
Read the full review on: https://literaryportals.blogspot.com/...
Final Rating 4 of 5 stars. "Better off bald" is a memoir of the author's 15-year-old sister Adrienne's battle against a rare form of liver cancer. Recommended for those who enjoy biographies and with an interest in oncology, the progression of cancer and its effects on patients and family alike.
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March 5, 2024I had a really hard time finishing this book, not because of the writing but because of the story. Very sweet tribute by the author.
December 10, 2019
My Review:
Cancer stories are always so hard for me to read, because it is so devastating for me, to read how helpless people are when they go through such an almost incurable disease. “Better Off Bald” was no different.
However, Adrienne fought the cancer with such a determination and bravery, that her story was also encouraging to read. She had more courage when she was sick and dyeing then most strong and healthy people have.
I had a hard time read parts of the book because Adrienne was so brave and optimistic during the toughest of times, that it made me realize just how much I have to work on.
I don’t mean to make this review about me, I am just trying so hard to let you know how strong and brave this girl was. I just cant imagine what it was like to go through it.
Better Off Bald was not just a story of an amazing life and cancer journey, but also a story of true love and devotion. I have never seen so much love and devotion between two sisters then Adrienne and her older sister Andrea.
Andrea stepped up to the plate and took on the role of Adrienne’s mother who had failed to take true care of her. Andrea loved Adrienne and encouraged her to be her–and nobody else.
Andrea showed Adrienne what true love between a mother and daughter should look like. She also showed her what true love between sisters is like.
Even throughout Adrienne’s entire cancer journey, Andrea stood beside her like a rock. She stayed through so many sleepless nights at the hospital, meticulously learned how to administer the meds so that Adrienne could suffer at home instead of a clinic, and just altogether made Adrienne know she was loved.
I do not think a sister could love her fellow sister more than Andrea loved her sister Adrienne. Just from reading the book I could tell Adrienne left this world with her heart as full as her life.
Adrienne is such an example of what strong and brave really is. And Andrea is a perfect example of how powerful love is.
Better Off Bald is such an incredibly amazing uet tragic story, and I hope I showed just a little bit of how much it meant to me.
If I could be just a fraction as brave as Adrienne was, and be able to love just a fraction of the amount Andrea did, I would be content.
*Visit anisbooks.com to read this entire review, author interview, AND enter a giveaway!*
Cancer stories are always so hard for me to read, because it is so devastating for me, to read how helpless people are when they go through such an almost incurable disease. “Better Off Bald” was no different.
However, Adrienne fought the cancer with such a determination and bravery, that her story was also encouraging to read. She had more courage when she was sick and dyeing then most strong and healthy people have.
I had a hard time read parts of the book because Adrienne was so brave and optimistic during the toughest of times, that it made me realize just how much I have to work on.
I don’t mean to make this review about me, I am just trying so hard to let you know how strong and brave this girl was. I just cant imagine what it was like to go through it.
Better Off Bald was not just a story of an amazing life and cancer journey, but also a story of true love and devotion. I have never seen so much love and devotion between two sisters then Adrienne and her older sister Andrea.
Andrea stepped up to the plate and took on the role of Adrienne’s mother who had failed to take true care of her. Andrea loved Adrienne and encouraged her to be her–and nobody else.
Andrea showed Adrienne what true love between a mother and daughter should look like. She also showed her what true love between sisters is like.
Even throughout Adrienne’s entire cancer journey, Andrea stood beside her like a rock. She stayed through so many sleepless nights at the hospital, meticulously learned how to administer the meds so that Adrienne could suffer at home instead of a clinic, and just altogether made Adrienne know she was loved.
I do not think a sister could love her fellow sister more than Andrea loved her sister Adrienne. Just from reading the book I could tell Adrienne left this world with her heart as full as her life.
Adrienne is such an example of what strong and brave really is. And Andrea is a perfect example of how powerful love is.
Better Off Bald is such an incredibly amazing uet tragic story, and I hope I showed just a little bit of how much it meant to me.
If I could be just a fraction as brave as Adrienne was, and be able to love just a fraction of the amount Andrea did, I would be content.
*Visit anisbooks.com to read this entire review, author interview, AND enter a giveaway!*
December 20, 2019
I have an aunt who had Cancer but I was young and had no part in knowing the details and it mustn’t have been too bad because she’s fine and I don’t ever remember her being sick. So I’ve been pretty ignorant with regards to what living with Cancer is really like.
After reading Better Off Bald, I realize just how bad Cancer can be. The author’s sister (who she is guardian of) has a fairly rare adult liver cancer despite the fact that she is only 15. When she is diagnosed, it comes as a complete shock and it takes a while for Andrea and her boyfriend John to figure out what Adrienne needs and how to help her. While reading the book, I just kept thinking about my life. If my husband, me or my children had Cancer, well I just can’t believe how confusing it can be, how many decisions have to be made, how bad the chemotherapy is on the body. The quote below shocked me.
“A nurse walks in with a paper shirt and pants over her normal attire. With a mask over her mouth, she holds a bag of liquid as far away from her body as possible. There is a skull and crossbones on the label. When she hangs it on Adrienne’s IV pole, I stare at it. Are we making the right decision? This woman is dressed as if she is handling a nuclear weapon. I don’t know what I expected. The chemo drug is liquid, in a bag, and labeled as poison. We have all agreed to poison Adrienne to stop the tumors that are killing her. I want to yell stop, but we have no other options. To win, poison is the only choice.” – pg 71
Wow. It’s so bad it’s labelled as a poison but that’s what chemotherapy is. It’s shocking and later, seeing how it affects Adrienne, I realize I wouldn’t wish Cancer on my enemy.
The book switches back and forth between her fight with Cancer and stories of her youth before Cancer. There were a few times when I got confused but for the most part, you can tell when is when.
If you want a REAL guide to what it’s like to have a child with liver cancer, you’ll appreciate this book. But be warned, it’s got very sad parts. But there are also parts that are full of life. That’s the moral of the story. Although Adrienne doesn’t make it in the end, her family learns so much about what it means to live and Adrienne does more living in her 147 days with Cancer than she did before that.
After reading Better Off Bald, I realize just how bad Cancer can be. The author’s sister (who she is guardian of) has a fairly rare adult liver cancer despite the fact that she is only 15. When she is diagnosed, it comes as a complete shock and it takes a while for Andrea and her boyfriend John to figure out what Adrienne needs and how to help her. While reading the book, I just kept thinking about my life. If my husband, me or my children had Cancer, well I just can’t believe how confusing it can be, how many decisions have to be made, how bad the chemotherapy is on the body. The quote below shocked me.
“A nurse walks in with a paper shirt and pants over her normal attire. With a mask over her mouth, she holds a bag of liquid as far away from her body as possible. There is a skull and crossbones on the label. When she hangs it on Adrienne’s IV pole, I stare at it. Are we making the right decision? This woman is dressed as if she is handling a nuclear weapon. I don’t know what I expected. The chemo drug is liquid, in a bag, and labeled as poison. We have all agreed to poison Adrienne to stop the tumors that are killing her. I want to yell stop, but we have no other options. To win, poison is the only choice.” – pg 71
Wow. It’s so bad it’s labelled as a poison but that’s what chemotherapy is. It’s shocking and later, seeing how it affects Adrienne, I realize I wouldn’t wish Cancer on my enemy.
The book switches back and forth between her fight with Cancer and stories of her youth before Cancer. There were a few times when I got confused but for the most part, you can tell when is when.
If you want a REAL guide to what it’s like to have a child with liver cancer, you’ll appreciate this book. But be warned, it’s got very sad parts. But there are also parts that are full of life. That’s the moral of the story. Although Adrienne doesn’t make it in the end, her family learns so much about what it means to live and Adrienne does more living in her 147 days with Cancer than she did before that.
June 4, 2020
Andrea Wilson Woods has written an emotionally charged story of caring for Adrienne, her teenage sister, as Adrienne undergoes treatment for stage IV liver cancer. Andrea is Adrienne’s legal guardian, a young woman in her twenties herself when she faces caring for her sister through cancer treatment.
Better off Bald: A Life in 147 Days takes reads on emotional highs and lows. It is not spoiler for readers to know that Adrienne dies from the cancer. Still, as Andrea Wilson Woods points out in “Author’s Notes” at the end of the book, “We lost Adrienne, but did she lose?” That line is in response to a friend’s mother who said, “You will win if you measure winning in terms of good days and good hours.”
Much of the praise for Better off Bald comes from the medical community. Nicholas Borys, MD, Executive VP and Chief Medical Officer of Celsion Corporation, for example, writes "Better Off Bald is a raw story about two sisters, one a teenager and the other barely an adult, facing cancer. Andrea works hard to be the grown-up and a mother to her younger sister, Adrienne, when the diagnosis of cancer crashes down on them. Read this book to learn what goes on in the minds of patients fighting cancer. This book will jolt you emotionally and hopefully inspire all medical professionals to do a little better, and all patients to fight a little harder."
For anyone who is facing or has faced a serious medical diagnosis, especially cancer, Better off Bald will be a touching story that will resonate with the reader. Readers will weep and laugh with Adrienne and Andrea and the medical personnel involved in Adrienne’s treatment.
Andrea Wilson Woods started a nonprofit called Blue Faery: The Adrienne Wilson Liver Cancer Association. Woods also loves to tell stories. She has been a coach, writer, teacher, and advocate. She maintains a robust Web site: https://www.andreawilsonwoods.com/.
Better off Bald: A Life in 147 Days takes reads on emotional highs and lows. It is not spoiler for readers to know that Adrienne dies from the cancer. Still, as Andrea Wilson Woods points out in “Author’s Notes” at the end of the book, “We lost Adrienne, but did she lose?” That line is in response to a friend’s mother who said, “You will win if you measure winning in terms of good days and good hours.”
Much of the praise for Better off Bald comes from the medical community. Nicholas Borys, MD, Executive VP and Chief Medical Officer of Celsion Corporation, for example, writes "Better Off Bald is a raw story about two sisters, one a teenager and the other barely an adult, facing cancer. Andrea works hard to be the grown-up and a mother to her younger sister, Adrienne, when the diagnosis of cancer crashes down on them. Read this book to learn what goes on in the minds of patients fighting cancer. This book will jolt you emotionally and hopefully inspire all medical professionals to do a little better, and all patients to fight a little harder."
For anyone who is facing or has faced a serious medical diagnosis, especially cancer, Better off Bald will be a touching story that will resonate with the reader. Readers will weep and laugh with Adrienne and Andrea and the medical personnel involved in Adrienne’s treatment.
Andrea Wilson Woods started a nonprofit called Blue Faery: The Adrienne Wilson Liver Cancer Association. Woods also loves to tell stories. She has been a coach, writer, teacher, and advocate. She maintains a robust Web site: https://www.andreawilsonwoods.com/.
October 9, 2019
Cancer touches most of our lives and some people make it their mission in life to help prevent and or treat cancer with a goal to help cure it.
When diagnosed with cancer, patients often ask their physicians what does this require? Patients are informed of staging, the possibility of symptoms and tests and often come face to face with authorizing their own support and treatment options.
If you are a caregiver, you know that you put your wants aside to focus on the ever-changing needs of the ill person. In the case of the terminally ill person, you do this by adopting a hopeful attitude and being grateful for the time you have together.
In this book, written like a journal, Andrea Wilson Woods shows us many lives that come to terms Adrienne's diagnosis of Hepatocellular carcinoma and you see Adrienne's days are filled with humor, courage, joy, and love.
This inspiring story tells us a little about clinical trials, targeted drug therapies, and their side effects. More importantly, it teaches us about the enjoyment of life and points out it is the little things that bring us happiness, like dyeing our hair or having an animal reach out and touch us as we walk by, or giggling with a girlfriend.
Chemotherapy targets all rapidly dividing cells and in many cases, hair usually begins falling out two to four weeks after treatment starts. New products have been developed to replace and /or supplement traditional wigs but when one acknowledges it's a succession of experiences that makes up one's liveliness, one may feel, better off bald.
I received this inspiring and educational read from the Rachal Bobman Marketing Manager at Scribe Media.
When diagnosed with cancer, patients often ask their physicians what does this require? Patients are informed of staging, the possibility of symptoms and tests and often come face to face with authorizing their own support and treatment options.
If you are a caregiver, you know that you put your wants aside to focus on the ever-changing needs of the ill person. In the case of the terminally ill person, you do this by adopting a hopeful attitude and being grateful for the time you have together.
In this book, written like a journal, Andrea Wilson Woods shows us many lives that come to terms Adrienne's diagnosis of Hepatocellular carcinoma and you see Adrienne's days are filled with humor, courage, joy, and love.
This inspiring story tells us a little about clinical trials, targeted drug therapies, and their side effects. More importantly, it teaches us about the enjoyment of life and points out it is the little things that bring us happiness, like dyeing our hair or having an animal reach out and touch us as we walk by, or giggling with a girlfriend.
Chemotherapy targets all rapidly dividing cells and in many cases, hair usually begins falling out two to four weeks after treatment starts. New products have been developed to replace and /or supplement traditional wigs but when one acknowledges it's a succession of experiences that makes up one's liveliness, one may feel, better off bald.
I received this inspiring and educational read from the Rachal Bobman Marketing Manager at Scribe Media.
October 16, 2019
Full disclosure: I worked with Andrea, and knew Adrienne before she was stricken with cancer. She was fun and snarky. As a result, I was somewhat familiar with her story. I found Andrea's account of her and her sister's struggle in dealing with her disease incredibly honest and moving. Andrea's detailed retelling of how Adrienne faced her diagnosis and subsequent battle was a quick read, making me wish I had gotten to know this courageous teenager during this struggle. Knowing the people involved was an unnecessary entry; her literary style is accessible, and the inclusion of pictures helps invite the reader into their lives. Avoiding the literary trappings of glossing over the negatives, Andrea's frankness betrays real human emotions and feelings. While the end is a foregone conclusion, you will appreciate this glimpse into the bond of two sisters who are each other's rock. Kudos to Andrea for committing Adrienne's life to print, so others can remember -- and get to know -- her. Highly recommend!
November 12, 2019
This book is an in-depth look at one family's experience with pediatric liver cancer. The writing is detailed and pulls you into the experience, but the level of detail may be too much. I think the details on treatment regimens and medications is valuable for others who may be thrust into this experience, but the book seemed to go on a bit too long. I hurt deeply for Andrea and Adrienne and John -- even though I understand that Adrienne felt like she had been blessed. We lost my mother suddenly, so this drawn out experience of impending loss and repeatedly crushed hopes was a different view. The author shares her real experiences without trying to "pretty things up" and speaks the truth when she notes that people often respond too late in these situations. The author's notes and acknowledgements at the end show how hard terminal cancer is on relationships. I am grateful that Ms. Wilson put this out there. Much appreciated.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review. All opinions above are my own.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review. All opinions above are my own.
October 26, 2019
Better off Bald by Andrea Wilson Woods.
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💕
Wow what a book. You are taken on a journey that I can only describe as brave yet raw, honest, positive and real. .
💕
Two sisters Andrea and Adrienne have a unique, special unbreakable bond. That bond is tested to the max when Adrienne is diagnosed with cancer and as expected Andrea is right there by her sisters side throughout. .
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Yet it is Adrienne who shows everyone that she has her inner strength, her zest for life and her determination to fight this horrid illness to the bitter end.
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💕
Here is a book that offers so much to every reader. It is a very sad emotional read and it does not gloss over the dark parts of someone fighting this horrid illness.
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💕
It’s just frightening that your life can change so much in so little time . 147days is not a long time.
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💕
Enjoyed is the wrong word for this book- insightful and it makes you re-look or re-evaluate what is actually important.
.
.
💕
Wow what a book. You are taken on a journey that I can only describe as brave yet raw, honest, positive and real. .
💕
Two sisters Andrea and Adrienne have a unique, special unbreakable bond. That bond is tested to the max when Adrienne is diagnosed with cancer and as expected Andrea is right there by her sisters side throughout. .
💕
Yet it is Adrienne who shows everyone that she has her inner strength, her zest for life and her determination to fight this horrid illness to the bitter end.
.
💕
Here is a book that offers so much to every reader. It is a very sad emotional read and it does not gloss over the dark parts of someone fighting this horrid illness.
.
💕
It’s just frightening that your life can change so much in so little time . 147days is not a long time.
.
💕
Enjoyed is the wrong word for this book- insightful and it makes you re-look or re-evaluate what is actually important.
.
November 17, 2019
I have read many books on the journey of both the fighter and the caregiver over the years and this is the best of them all. Adrienne and Andrea not only have a truly special relationship which clearly shows throughout the book but Andrea's telling of this time makes you experience it right along with them both. Instead of just "observing the story" you will feel as if you are part of both of them and living the highs and lows right along with them. Andrea's writing style is open, extremely honest and raw and I applaud her for that. The addition of the pictures and drawings truly makes their story that more personable. Thank you Andrea for sharing this and now I think I am going to call both my sisters and let them know how much I love them.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2019
Aside from the meticulous hard read, ‘better off bald’ is crisp, passionate, straight to the point and incredibly detailed. Nicely done. It made for an exceptionally informative read. Transitioning the narrative in a back and forth fashion as well allows readers to learn a little about Adrienne through her own notes and backstory. ‘Build Your Bliss’… great quote. The chemo quilt was quite touching, as were Dr. Aquino’s words on page 172. Those were poignant words that might make many readers appreciate ‘quality of life.’
Overall, ‘better off bald’ contains a wealth of information anyone can learn from, particularly caregivers of patients diagnosed with aggressive forms of cancer. Highly recommended.
Overall, ‘better off bald’ contains a wealth of information anyone can learn from, particularly caregivers of patients diagnosed with aggressive forms of cancer. Highly recommended.
December 27, 2019
This is the story of Adrienne and girl diagnosed with cancer as well as her sister who is also her gaurdian Andrea the author. This book touches you. It makes you laugh and cry. I cried a lot. This is also a story of a girl who wouldn't give up and fought on her own terms. This is about s beautiful soul gone to soon. We are taken through hospital visits and dreams come true. This is a book worth reading if only to get to know the beautiful soul of Adrienne.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy free of charge. This is my honest and unbiased opinion of it.
I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy free of charge. This is my honest and unbiased opinion of it.
October 18, 2019
Better off Bald is an amazing story of a young girl that was diagnosed with liver cancer and the sister that looked after her. A daily diary was kept from beginning to end of what was done, activities, feelings, etc.
It was an emotional, heartfelt and sad journey. The dedication of the sister was amazing, taking the place of the mother. She made sure her sister had amazing adventures and a lot of love.
This is a wonderful book for teens and adults alike. Keep a box of tissue close.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It was an emotional, heartfelt and sad journey. The dedication of the sister was amazing, taking the place of the mother. She made sure her sister had amazing adventures and a lot of love.
This is a wonderful book for teens and adults alike. Keep a box of tissue close.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 19, 2021
Disclaimer: I've met Andrea at cancer conferences, but do not know her outside of this.
Better Off Bald is a heartbreaking and heartwarming story of LIVING life with a terminal diagnosis. As a mom I cannot imagine the pain of cancer stealing my daughter, and while Andrea is Adrienne's sister, she was functionally her mother as well due to a biological mother who was the epitome of dysfunctional.
As someone with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer, this hits book close to home. We all could take lesson from young Adrienne in living our best lives.
Better Off Bald is a heartbreaking and heartwarming story of LIVING life with a terminal diagnosis. As a mom I cannot imagine the pain of cancer stealing my daughter, and while Andrea is Adrienne's sister, she was functionally her mother as well due to a biological mother who was the epitome of dysfunctional.
As someone with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer, this hits book close to home. We all could take lesson from young Adrienne in living our best lives.
April 10, 2020
I’m not sure where to start. As given away by the title, this book documents the 147 days of Adrienne having cancer. It’s an emotional roller coaster from the start to the end. It includes snippets of the livejournal that she kept while undergoing treatment which shows you what a strong and determined young woman she was. Overall, you get to see the nitty gritty of what goes into the cancer treatment process with well documented treatments, meds, and the grisly realities of taking those drugs.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 29, 2020
This is a must-read. Starting a book when you "think you" know the ending usually doesn't appeal. That doesn't apply here because you are so involved in the story from the very beginning that it takes on a completely different feel. Adrienne's spirit and Andrea's love and honesty make this book so hard to put down. Thanks, Andrea, for being so open about such a personal experience and for creating Blue Faery, a much-needed organization that educates and promotes further research for liver cancer.
October 27, 2019
This biography written by the sister of Adrienne Wilson about her sister is heartbreaking, as Adrienne was a suicidal teen before being diagnosed with stage IV liver cancer. She decided at that point she wanted to live and
make the most of the time she had left, which turned out to be 147 days. Andrea writes about how she obtained custody of her sister and of their final days together. I highly recommend this book.
make the most of the time she had left, which turned out to be 147 days. Andrea writes about how she obtained custody of her sister and of their final days together. I highly recommend this book.
October 28, 2019
The story is a beautifully written true memoir of two sister as the go and navigate the medical system with the life and death struggle with liver cancer. The story is a good reminder of how precious life truly is.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 20, 2019
A tough journey from healthy teenager to four stage liver cancer. Andrea tells a really tough, and heartwarming story about her beloved little sister and they fight against cancer.
February 26, 2025
This book took me four years to read because I knew the ending would break my heart and it did. 💜💜💜
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