Published: 2 September, 2010
by TOM FOOT

A CHARITY worker who underwent “radical surgery” has written a hard-hitting book that she hopes will help others coping with chronic disease.

Sam Shakes, 38, who lives near Old Street, Islington, and works for charities including Age Concern Islington, wrote Then Life Took Control: From Sickness to Wellbeing with the help of journals she kept while she was suffering from ulcerative colitis (UC).

She became ill after she turned to alcohol as a way of dealing with her “grief”.

Her book chronicles the build-up to her operation and her recovery.

Ms Shakes was diagnosed with UC, a type of inflammatory bowel disease, in 1998 and was warned that she could die unless her colon was removed.

She underwent the surgery, but says she “went into denial” and experienced “a grieving process” following the operation.

She no longer drinks and now works as a freelance carer.

She is also involved in groups that mediate between patients and health authorities including Camden and Islington Primary Care Trust.

• Then Life Took Control: From Sickness to Wellbeing. Nature Inspired Books, £11.95