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FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS: My journey through cancer. How love and my cats sustained, fortified me, and helped take the pain away ...
One woman's heart-warming story of life, love, determination, and refusal to give up.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 2, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
February 9, 2020
"I sat in stupefied silence .. How could I possibly have leukaemia? How did I get it? Why did I get it? Was I going to die? If so, when?"
At the age of 56 Pauline Dewberry felt content with her life. She had sons and grandchildren, the company of six cats, church life, projects and plans. Then she was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML).
"Hold it there", you may think. "You're suggesting I read a depressing, medical-term laden memoir of a leukaemia survivor?" Not at all. I'm recommending a story of hope, faith, prayers, purring, medical marvels, friendships, and an unexpected love story.
"I asked what would happen if there weren't any (stem cell) matches. I was told that they would just make me as comfortable as they could and basically wait for me to die." By the greatest good fortune, Pauline's brother turned out to be a match. But there was a long road to travel after that.
The author set down this often raw account of her seemingly interminable -and near to actually being terminal - battle with cancer to share how 'despite the odds being stacked up against you, it IS possible to look your enemy in the eye and win'.
Pauline describes her illness and treatment with such clear language that it is easy to comprehend. As well as being informative about AML, this candid account will be a valuable eye-opener, I think, for the friends and family of anyone who is locked in a prolonged battle with ill health, not only with cancer. The author does not shirk from telling of the personal embarrassments, moments of indignity and additional trials involved, especially while in hospital. For instance, a mid-night 'simple' procedure to remove a cannula by a doctor 'who looked to be about twelve years old' became an hours-long complication leaving her with bruises and stitches. 'I felt like I'd been to war. Who knew that hospitals could be such dangerous places'.
And then there were the rashes, the maddening itches, dry mouth, sleeping too much, then being unable to sleep, no appetite, everything tasting awful, then sugar cravings, the nagging worry about one's changed appearance... On it goes, all the things that a healthy person (like me) would simply not realise an cancer patient is going through.
Health is not only about the body, of course, but about the strength of the spirit. The author's fears and doubts will resonate, I think, with many people dealing with a long illness. There were days of despair despite knowing that hundreds were praying for her. Even simply telling people how sick she was turned into a struggle. Some regaled her with horror stories of their own at a time when she needed support.
But she also found humour in unexpected things. The rumblings of her room-mate, Mr Fridge, for instance had me laughing. Although distressed by the loss of her hair, she talks with good humour about choosing new headwear. Deciding that the scarves made her look "like a Russian peasant wringing her hands at a failed beetroot crop" she opts for her faithful beanie.
As well as her faith, Pauline valued her 'Purr-atherapy'. She describes how her cats would curl against her at home and purr her through many dark hours. As time passed, each of her purr-ers died. But two new cats, Casey and Gibbs, introduced themselves into her life, and with their company the author is now in remission after surviving aggressive chemotherapy, the stem cell transplant, CMV, MRSA and Graft Vs host Disease (GVHD).
This is a true story of great odds surmounted and of quiet daily courage. Remarkably, Pauline also found 'autumnal love,' even at such a time as this.
At the age of 56 Pauline Dewberry felt content with her life. She had sons and grandchildren, the company of six cats, church life, projects and plans. Then she was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukaemia (AML).
"Hold it there", you may think. "You're suggesting I read a depressing, medical-term laden memoir of a leukaemia survivor?" Not at all. I'm recommending a story of hope, faith, prayers, purring, medical marvels, friendships, and an unexpected love story.
"I asked what would happen if there weren't any (stem cell) matches. I was told that they would just make me as comfortable as they could and basically wait for me to die." By the greatest good fortune, Pauline's brother turned out to be a match. But there was a long road to travel after that.
The author set down this often raw account of her seemingly interminable -and near to actually being terminal - battle with cancer to share how 'despite the odds being stacked up against you, it IS possible to look your enemy in the eye and win'.
Pauline describes her illness and treatment with such clear language that it is easy to comprehend. As well as being informative about AML, this candid account will be a valuable eye-opener, I think, for the friends and family of anyone who is locked in a prolonged battle with ill health, not only with cancer. The author does not shirk from telling of the personal embarrassments, moments of indignity and additional trials involved, especially while in hospital. For instance, a mid-night 'simple' procedure to remove a cannula by a doctor 'who looked to be about twelve years old' became an hours-long complication leaving her with bruises and stitches. 'I felt like I'd been to war. Who knew that hospitals could be such dangerous places'.
And then there were the rashes, the maddening itches, dry mouth, sleeping too much, then being unable to sleep, no appetite, everything tasting awful, then sugar cravings, the nagging worry about one's changed appearance... On it goes, all the things that a healthy person (like me) would simply not realise an cancer patient is going through.
Health is not only about the body, of course, but about the strength of the spirit. The author's fears and doubts will resonate, I think, with many people dealing with a long illness. There were days of despair despite knowing that hundreds were praying for her. Even simply telling people how sick she was turned into a struggle. Some regaled her with horror stories of their own at a time when she needed support.
But she also found humour in unexpected things. The rumblings of her room-mate, Mr Fridge, for instance had me laughing. Although distressed by the loss of her hair, she talks with good humour about choosing new headwear. Deciding that the scarves made her look "like a Russian peasant wringing her hands at a failed beetroot crop" she opts for her faithful beanie.
As well as her faith, Pauline valued her 'Purr-atherapy'. She describes how her cats would curl against her at home and purr her through many dark hours. As time passed, each of her purr-ers died. But two new cats, Casey and Gibbs, introduced themselves into her life, and with their company the author is now in remission after surviving aggressive chemotherapy, the stem cell transplant, CMV, MRSA and Graft Vs host Disease (GVHD).
This is a true story of great odds surmounted and of quiet daily courage. Remarkably, Pauline also found 'autumnal love,' even at such a time as this.
January 15, 2020
For anyone going through the same thing or may know of someone fighting the Cancer battle, this is my sisters horrendous account on an incredible journey through her major Cancer health setback.
You'll feel her pain as you keep reading, know the disappointment she keeps facing, cry at the loss of her loving, fury family members, laugh as she herself makes funny observations along the way and feel joy with her strong faith in God which got her through to the other side.
Tony.
Aka: Little Bro
Aka; Adonis.
You'll feel her pain as you keep reading, know the disappointment she keeps facing, cry at the loss of her loving, fury family members, laugh as she herself makes funny observations along the way and feel joy with her strong faith in God which got her through to the other side.
Tony.
Aka: Little Bro
Aka; Adonis.
September 19, 2020
A powerful narrative concerning a woman facing the personal devastation of a cancer diagnosis
that is beautifully written and told with heart-felt honesty and extreme courage. A tale of harrowing survival and love of friends, with both two legs and four, who serve as buffers against her pain and fears, this is a book that everyone can learn from.
Those who read Pauline's story can only become the better for it. Her perspective soothes the soul and nourishes the human spirit, stoking the flames of hope that lives within us all.
that is beautifully written and told with heart-felt honesty and extreme courage. A tale of harrowing survival and love of friends, with both two legs and four, who serve as buffers against her pain and fears, this is a book that everyone can learn from.
Those who read Pauline's story can only become the better for it. Her perspective soothes the soul and nourishes the human spirit, stoking the flames of hope that lives within us all.
January 13, 2020
Graphic, moving, ultimately uplifting, this vivid account of how one woman found her way through the most challenging experiences of her life, will have you weeping but laughing too. Sometimes let down by people, Pauline describes how she found support from her beloved feline friends and her deep faith in God to give her the strength she needed to keep going and eventually emerge into a sweeter, lighter place where she finds the love of her life.
October 14, 2020
Pauline Dewberry has been editor of a website and newsletter titled, The Daily Mews for a long time. I have been a follower since 2014 when I discovered it. Back in 2006 , The Daily Mews had already been online for years when she was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia. At the time, she was only in her mid 50’s.
This book is all about her journey from sickness back to health with the help of her kitties. Sadly, one of her beloved cats, Garfield was in poor health and had to be put down right after her diagnosis. As I was reading this, I found myself in awe of her positive attitude despite all the treatments and isolation she had to go through to recover. I truly believe a positive attitude and good sense of humor aid in healing and Pauline is a perfect example of this.
Pauline was fortunate to have a brother who was a match so she could get a stem cell treatment. And also fortunate that he was willing to donate because it was no simple thing for him to do. Her book includes all the icky parts of treatments including the side awful side effects of chemo like losing hair and constantly vomiting. She also writes about how many nurses were too busy to take the time to care because they are overworked. She also had some unkind roommates at the hospital. Despite all the negatives, she managed to keep her positive outlook. In addition to her cats, she also had two sons and their families as well as a lot of friends to help her through.
Another plus was getting to return home to her kitties between treatments. And they all recognized her despite smelling like a hospital and having no hair. They gathered round and purred. I also believe a cat’s purr can heal and this is clear in her story. Pauline is an amazing woman who has even shaved her head to raise money for cancer research. I highly recommend this book to all cat lovers and to anyone who needs an uplifting read or loves a happy ending.
This book is all about her journey from sickness back to health with the help of her kitties. Sadly, one of her beloved cats, Garfield was in poor health and had to be put down right after her diagnosis. As I was reading this, I found myself in awe of her positive attitude despite all the treatments and isolation she had to go through to recover. I truly believe a positive attitude and good sense of humor aid in healing and Pauline is a perfect example of this.
Pauline was fortunate to have a brother who was a match so she could get a stem cell treatment. And also fortunate that he was willing to donate because it was no simple thing for him to do. Her book includes all the icky parts of treatments including the side awful side effects of chemo like losing hair and constantly vomiting. She also writes about how many nurses were too busy to take the time to care because they are overworked. She also had some unkind roommates at the hospital. Despite all the negatives, she managed to keep her positive outlook. In addition to her cats, she also had two sons and their families as well as a lot of friends to help her through.
Another plus was getting to return home to her kitties between treatments. And they all recognized her despite smelling like a hospital and having no hair. They gathered round and purred. I also believe a cat’s purr can heal and this is clear in her story. Pauline is an amazing woman who has even shaved her head to raise money for cancer research. I highly recommend this book to all cat lovers and to anyone who needs an uplifting read or loves a happy ending.
September 1, 2020
Pauline Dewberry’s “For Such A Time As This” is a memoir of her personal journey and the trials endured throughout the entire ordeal. After being given a devastating diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia at just 55 years young; intense courses of hospital treatments followed. These treatments brought about immense changes and new unwanted stresses to Pauline’s life.
In a very well written book that contains incredibly detailed information on her treatments, fears, and feelings Pauline explains how she was able to draw inner strength from her very devout faith; and the support network of her fellow parishioners, friends and her family too. Pauline also had limitless unconditional love, companionship & comfort through a lifelong passion of caring for the cats in her life.
Time and time again whilst reading this book, a particular quote came to my mind. “You only find out exactly how strong you can be, when being strong is all you can do”. This saying I first heard back in March 2012, after a professional footballer had been taken ill with a cardiac arrest during a televised match. It certainly applies to Pauline Dewberry too. There was even a time during her numerous hospital stays when, unbelievably she was actually being bullied by other patients on her hospital ward; but even with the sufferings of her diagnosis & the stresses of her ongoing treatments, she still found the strength of character to overcome this most unexpected, unpleasant experience too. Indeed, Pauline endures wave after wave of difficulty so stoically that it left me desperately hoping for her happiness in the closing chapters. But I’m not going to disclose the ending here.
I found this entire story to be both inspirational and uplifting. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy a true life experience account.
In a very well written book that contains incredibly detailed information on her treatments, fears, and feelings Pauline explains how she was able to draw inner strength from her very devout faith; and the support network of her fellow parishioners, friends and her family too. Pauline also had limitless unconditional love, companionship & comfort through a lifelong passion of caring for the cats in her life.
Time and time again whilst reading this book, a particular quote came to my mind. “You only find out exactly how strong you can be, when being strong is all you can do”. This saying I first heard back in March 2012, after a professional footballer had been taken ill with a cardiac arrest during a televised match. It certainly applies to Pauline Dewberry too. There was even a time during her numerous hospital stays when, unbelievably she was actually being bullied by other patients on her hospital ward; but even with the sufferings of her diagnosis & the stresses of her ongoing treatments, she still found the strength of character to overcome this most unexpected, unpleasant experience too. Indeed, Pauline endures wave after wave of difficulty so stoically that it left me desperately hoping for her happiness in the closing chapters. But I’m not going to disclose the ending here.
I found this entire story to be both inspirational and uplifting. I highly recommend it to those who enjoy a true life experience account.
September 18, 2020
Pauline Dewberry’s For Such a Time as This is a treat for the soul. I know what you’re thinking—how could a memoir about cancer be a “treat”? But it’s true! Pauline’s unique blend of wit, faith, and transparent honesty made me laugh—and warmed my heart. Are you facing a crisis? Do you want to encourage someone who has received a troubling diagnosis? Read For Such a Time as This. Better yet, buy several copies to give to friends. They’ll thank you for it! (Full disclosure: I received this book in exchange for an honest review.)
November 21, 2020
When Pauline Dewberry is told she has acute myeloid leukaemia she listens in disbelief, looking and feeling well she thought there must be some mistake. Horrified she learns she has to spend 6 months in hospital and undergo intensive chemotherapy.
This is Pauline's story of how she coped with her gruelling treatment . Living alone with her 6 cats she needed help and support. She is blessed with good luck when her brother turns out to be a perfect tissue match for a stem cell implant and so begins her long journey of chemotherapy which she faces with remarkable courage. Sometimes let down by people she thought she could rely on, her strength comes from her faith in God, the power of prayer and the comfort and love of her cats. Pauline never loses her sense of humour even in her darkest days, and she finds a new unexpected love in her life.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was inspirational, moving and funny. It proves we should never give up, because sometimes things can get better!
This is Pauline's story of how she coped with her gruelling treatment . Living alone with her 6 cats she needed help and support. She is blessed with good luck when her brother turns out to be a perfect tissue match for a stem cell implant and so begins her long journey of chemotherapy which she faces with remarkable courage. Sometimes let down by people she thought she could rely on, her strength comes from her faith in God, the power of prayer and the comfort and love of her cats. Pauline never loses her sense of humour even in her darkest days, and she finds a new unexpected love in her life.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was inspirational, moving and funny. It proves we should never give up, because sometimes things can get better!
May 30, 2021
I didn’t know what to expect when I stumbled across this fascinating book. I found it fresh, told in a natural, engaging way that gripped me with its honesty. The narrative arc from suffering to ultimate growth, or at least survival, is admiring. The warm narration is never over-blown or self-pitying. It resonated with me and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews