Be Patient

A story of perseverance, the importance of advocating for yourself and how the kindness of strangers can have a huge impact. Having been aware of Tilly for a few years it’s been fascinating to sit and read about her story in more depth. After years of not being listened to, I’m so glad Tilly is being heard now. A lesson to us all on what it is to have hope, even when we are at our most depleted. Shocking, brave and raw. * Giovanna Fletcher, author, podcaster, actress and activist *Tilly writes beautifully, with such compassion. She has a wise understanding far beyond her years. The insight that she gives the reader is in depth and astonishing. It is delivered in such a relatable way and even with humour. I think this is a really important book for all of us. * Donna Ashworth, poet and author of ‘Wild Hope’ and ‘Growing Brave’ *What a sensational read. A real, heartfelt, and insightful look into the lived experience of someone managing their chronic health issues. * Dr Nighat Arif, GP, medical broadcaster and author of ‘The Knowledge’ *I found this book both heartbreaking and uplifting all at once. A true story of resilience, hope and unwavering courage. A reminder to us all that life is worth living and that love really can conquer all. * Frankie Bridge, presenter and author of ‘Open’ *In becoming the expert that no one wants to be Tilly Rose turns the worst prize in the raffle into the best, wittiest, most painful, most human quest to find the answer to a medical mystery that no one else can solve. This is a triumph of spirit over adversity. I found myself not only falling in love with its author but also rooting for her to find a cure. To have written it from the battlefield of illness is nothing short of a literary miracle. This book, like its author is the dandelion that grows between the cracks. I loved it . * Abi Morgan (OBE), screenwriter, playwright and author of ‘This is Not a Pity Memoir’ *An inspiring account of a torturous patient journey. A recommended read for all. * Dr Ed Patrick, anaesthetist, comedian and author of ‘Catch Your Breath’ *Be Patient is a medical mystery. But it’s also much more than that….The young woman who had ambitions to become a journalist if she hadn’t been so ill went undercover from under the covers…. Darkly funny as well as deeply shocking, [Be Patient] is an antidote to This is Going to Hurt… This is what it’s like to be on the other side of Britain’s hospital wards.’ * The Times *Tilly lifts the lid on the other side of the patient curtain with wit, warmth and humanity. Her experiences are shocking, uplifting and everything in between, and her determination to turn her pain and resilience into change for the healthcare sector is remarkable. This is a book for anyone who’s been a patient, knows a patient or will become a patient - and that’s all of us. * Bethan Rose Jenkins, Features Editor, Good Housekeeping *Written like a fictional novel… one of the best memoirs I have ever read * Jade Bowler, author, YouTuber, podcast host *

Tilly Rose is an author and activist, championing access to higher education and patient advocacy.

After 20 years as a patient, Tilly made the decision to share her patient journey on Instagram and saw first-hand how her experiences resonated with followers. She now shares her personal story in ‘chapters’ and recently launched a platform for other patients to share their stories and support each along the way.

Be Patient is Tilly’s first memoir and part of her wider mission to impact patient care.