Like a Hole in the Head : Living With a Brain Tumour

by Ivan Noble

Faced with a desperately hard battle against cancer, Ivan decided he would like to share his experiences with readers of the BBC News website. He hoped it could help demystify a disease that touches so many lives, and would allow people across the world to discuss the disease and share their experiences. From then, Ivan wrote a regular, deeply moving diary outlining his battle against the tumour. He endured two major brain operations, chemotherapy and various experimental treatments in his extraordinary fight for survival. He also married his German born girlfriend and they celebrated the birth of their second child. Throughout the two years, the diary received thousands of e-mails from people around the world. Many of them are published in this book. It is impossible to read them without being deeply moved - messages of support to Ivan, people's experiences, stories of hope. One of the most remarkable aspects of the regular diary has been this amazing coming together of so many people around the world.

Genres: Memoir, Nonfiction

176 pages, Paperback

First published May 23, 2005

Reviews

[Nicky Pugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was following Ivan's brave journey through his diary excerpts on the BBC website. When he announced he would be publishing his diary into a book, I bought it as soon as it was published.

A courageous and tear jerking story from a man battling an aggressive and terminal brain tumour. You share his good days, his bad and his thoughts for the future. Profits from this book go to charity.

[Mark Tooley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Extremely moving. One of those books that reminds you, if you need reminding, of the precious nature of every second we're lucky enough to live in good health. I've nothing but admiration for Ivan Noble's ability both to channel positivity throughout his ordeal and to write about it for public consumption. I often found myself wondering how I'd be in a similar situation; like everyone, I hope I never have to find out... but, if I do, I'll be trying to channel Ivan.

[Imalah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ivan Noble was a brave man and his story is trully inspiring!!

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a worthwhile memoir of living with a brain tumor. The author was in his 30s--a successful BBC contributor in the prime of life. I read this book because I have a friend who has the same type of tumor and I thought it might bring me some insight. It did, although Ivan Noble handled his situation completely differently from the way my friend is handling hers.

[Simon Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. I truely complelling account of a brave individuals fight for life.