Breathing Out

'You've got cancer' are not the words you expect to hear when you're a 40-something marathon running fitness freak who has never even smoked a cigarette. Karen Hockney's extraordinary battle with breast cancer was different in two ways. First, as an Englishwoman living in the south of France, a stone's throw from Cannes, she suddenly had to contend with language barriers and an unfamiliar health system (albeit an extraordinarily efficient one). Secondly, as a leading showbusiness writer who has penned for publications including Hello, The Times and You Magazine, her job was jet-setting around the world to meet some of the most famous celebrities of our time. How could she cope with facing them sans wig, battling nausea and exhaustion? How would they react – and was it really possible to go from Cancer to Cannes Film Festival in the space of a few weeks? A memoir with a difference, Breathing Out is full of practical advice, meticulous research and knowledge garnered from Karen's journey, punctuated by hope, positivity and a smattering of bleak humour. 'Inspiring, humorous and poignant, this book underlines the power of positivity.' – Elle Macpherson 'The word cancer is one we are still too scared to say. After reading this, I realised it was a book about the Big C but that C is courage. Karen's insight, good humour and selfless devotion to her family shows what an amazing human being she is. She actually makes cancer 'approachable' if there is such a thing. However grim life can look, with strength, good grace and love you can win. It's a story we can all relate to and learn from, one that is truly worth reading. (It made me cry too). – Amanda Holden 'Karen's book is an honest and touching account of her journey which had me laughing and crying at every turn. Her health tips are also accurate and empowering and a wonderful resource that I can put into the hands of my cancer patients.' – Dr Simone Laubscher, Harley Street nutritionist