Reader reviews for 'tits up'

Despite the book's enticing cover and witty title I was slightly afraid I would need to be in a robust state of mind to embark on this story of Carole's cancer treatment. However, I was delighted to discover that Tits Up is a complete page-turner with well-timed episodes of light relief.

Carole takes the reader by the hand and guides her in detail through each step of the treatment, removing any mystery for those who might be contemplating their own breast cancer care. Each challenge is approached with intelligence and described honestly, so that patients and professionals alike can learn from her experience of chemotherapy, surgery, radiotherapy and ultimately, immunotherapy.

Carole shares the important message that breast cancer is not always painless; in her own case it was the pain that prompted further investigation. I also learnt about some of the side-effects of chemotherapy including the 'oops moments' !

Whilst she doesn't shy away from expressing her fears about the future for herself and her family, the author's love of life and determination to reach a positive conclusion to the treatment carries the reader sympathetically and constructively from beginning to happy ending.

Perversely, I actually found this to be an enjoyable read and really admire the author for tackling this difficult subject in such an accessible way. 

Once I started reading “Tits up” I could not put it down, it was truly a heartfelt account of Carole’s journey with cancer and her treatment, reading it I felt like I could have been sat with Carole having a cup of tea while she was telling me all about her experience with every step of her journey, the book was very informative, emotional and funny too. As
a hairdresser I know how important hair is, especially to women, so it was interesting to read about hair loss from a cancer patient's point of view.
I feel this book would be very helpful for anyone going through treatment for cancer, or who has a loved one who has had a diagnosis, or even for people to just have the knowledge for the future of how important it is for us all to keep a check on ourselves.
I will definitely be recommending Tits up to my family, friends and clients to help spread the word!
This book was a fantastic read… well done Carole, you are a true inspiration! 

An honest, and sometimes painful, but never sensationalist, account of what its like to go through breast cancer treatment and its effect not only on the patient but those supporting her. Carole tells it like it is - and covers topics the doctors dont always mention... including the oral health implications, the effect on the sense of taste and consequently on diet... in a straightforward, often humorous, manner without being sensationalist or frightening. This down to earth book covers difficult subjects in a straightforward, and personal, tone without ever becoming mawkish or over sentimental.

Although primarily written for those newly diagnosed, or undergoing treatment, it is a must read for anyone - family and friends - supporting someone with breast cancer I

I've known many friends who have gone through breast cancer treatment and I've lived through their journey with them, which has been truly heartbreaking. Reading Carole's story has made me more fully understand and appreciate what they, and Carole, have been through. Carole explains her journey in a very honest, sympathetic & sometimes humorous way. It also makes you realise that it's so important for family and friends to offer support even if you think they might want to be alone because they are so tired from the effects of the treatment.
It covers very difficult subjects such as the effects of the treatment which the author has explained so well.
I can highly recommend this book to anyone who may be going through the treatment themselves or supporting someone who is. 

An honest no frills journey through Carole’s cancer treatment. The subject matter is in the corner of every older woman’s mind and Carole’s honesty and handling of the brutal treatment is superb. Some days she was too ill to write and her pain is reflected in her silence. I’m in awe of her bravery. All women need to read this book.

Beautifully written, thought-provoking book. Painfully honest, amusing, Carole tears away the mystery of every woman's nightmare.

‘Tits Up’ is such a beautifully raw and candid account, in which Carole Paterson delivers her inspiring story in a sensitive, informative, and profound manner. Finding the light in the darkest of situations yet still providing important and educational advice along the way. It is incredible how even in the scariest of times, Carole remains focused on helping others through the recount of her own experiences. It is at times emotional, at times humorous, but consistently inspirational. As a 21-year-old woman, I feel my generation is massively undereducated in subjects such as cancer and other serious diagnoses. I knew very little information regarding things such as self-checks, mammograms, and other cancer screening procedures. ‘Tits Up’ destigmatises conversations surrounding cancer, especially as a woman, in which we are often made to feel as though discussions involving breast or cervical cancer are that of a taboo. After reading, I no longer shy away from conversations surrounding cancer – as many of us do. I no longer opt for substitutions of the word cancer such as “the big c” or a quiet whisper of the word. It is truly liberating and empowering as a woman to read such an honest and sincere story, that acts not just as an comforting and informative account to others but can act as a catalyst to spark the most important of conversations – without shame.   

A heart rendering view into the world of breast cancer sufferers, Carole covers all aspects of her own personal experiences and how it affected her, her family and friends. Sensitively and honestly written and with few holds barred Carole offers an earthy insight into her personal handling of the disease from early diagnosis to final treatment and all the hurdles that it represented. The book is well written and is often funny, sometimes sad and offers a must read for those who want to fully understand the ups and downs of living with the Big C.

I loved this wonderful book.. It's raw, honest, funny, moving and informative. It's gracious, thought provoking, concise and direct... Every page packs a punch. We are taken on this journey with the author and by the end you are completely absorbed in the roller-coaster of daily emotions! The reader gets a peek into the reality of what it means to be diagnosed with cancer and how important support is from partners, family and friends when your very fabric of life is challenged at every level. Tits Up humbled me, raised my consciousness and awareness of the value of life and reaffirmed the essence of what can make us Happy, Contented, Positive and Emotionally Valued. Thankyou for that Carole Patterson, I will treasure your words xxx 

Even at her darkest hour Carole found it within herself to document each stage of her journey to hopefully help others who are in a similar situation, which is amazing. A lot of us shy away from talking about the big ‘C’ but this book gives you a real insight of diagnosis, treatment and aftercare.   It has taught me many things which I was unaware of and the importance of raising awareness. The affect it can have on friends, family and loved ones!  Before reading ‘TITS UP’ I knew it was important to check yourself but honestly I never did, not until this. I think when someone close to you gets diagnosed with any illness it makes you more aware.  ‘Tits Up’ provides an honest and sincere account of Carole’s breast cancer journey without it being too frightening. I found ‘Tits Up’ extremely educational as I had never heard of triple negative breast cancer before, and the fact that it affects around 15% of patients. Another thing I learnt is the fact you have to be aware of the food you eat, toiletries you use and the affects it can have on your teeth and nails. This actually stunned me, I did not realise there were so many other factors to consider.  I found it emotional to read at times and I did shed many tears but I also found myself laughing out loud too. Carole is amazing, truly inspiring and brave, and she should be so proud of sharing her experience with the world. It has really given me the push to check myself more and if you feel there is something not quite right to seek medical advice and be persistent.   Cancer can affect anyone of all ages and even though it is daunting it is better to catch it early to give you the best possible outcome. Knowledge is Power! Keep checking! Keep talking and Keep supporting!  

This book is so well written & from the heart .I found it compelling reading poignant but written light heartedly .There are lots of useful tips for people going through cancer treatment & makes you realise how much it affects all the family Well done Carole Paterson I look forward to reading more of your books in the near future

This all inspiring book ,is most certainly included in my top 5 best reads. I sat down in the morning to read the first couple of pages and 4 hours later book in hand ,I was totally absorbed Carole's, experience, observations and the challenges of cancer are beautifully written , describing worrying , painful , confusing times with positivity , laughter and life. Astoundingly to the point and with no frills , this book will stay with me forever