COVID CANCER CRAIC : Coping with a death sentence through memories and laughter

Being diagnosed with incurable cancer that had spread to the liver and bones, might justifiably be regarded as a bad day at the oncologist’s office. Add to this a fractured neck, a life expectancy of six months and isolation from loved ones due to Covid lockdowns, and one could be forgiven for descending into the depth of despair.  But not Issy Hogg. On receiving the news, this indefatigable and fun-loving defence lawyer told her oncologist, in true Shakespearean style, that she had no intention of ‘shuffling off this mortal coil’ anytime soon. Issy then began regaling family and friends with a series of amusing and inspirational posts providing updates on her experience in hospital, treatment programme and anecdotes from an eventful professional and personal life.  Over a year beyond her death sentence, Issy has committed her experiences to this book. The primary aim being to share the overwhelming benefits of positive thought and a, literary, ‘never say die’ approach with those who encounter or fear unwelcome life-changing events of whatever nature.