My Timely Arrival

This is a story about a woman in her 70's with an undiminished appetite for life, love and adventure. Her journey takes us through

• South London
• Surgery
• Serious illness and survival
• Bereavement
• Political change and optimistic personal decisions

It tells of the creation of a new life that may inspire others to see their third age as a place of opportunities and liberation rather than a place that, for some, pickles them in familiarity, predictability and acceptance. As vivid a personality as the colours of the clothes she wears this is her story... so far...

My Timely Arrival is a fascinating account of Deborah's narrow escape from death due to bacterial endocarditis coupled with sepsis. She wants to tell the world about the importance of knowing 'the cause' - no matter the situation. In her case, it was a streptococcal sore throat. A bacterial infection treated by her grandmother with homely remedies when she was a child. She had no idea that this childhood contagion could have caused such devastation later in life.

Deborah has become a befriender of patients and a challenger of medical paternalism, as well as an educator of medics and patients alike. She skillfully imparts her knowledge throughout the book.

Dr Jane Mounty, Consultant Psychiatrist (Retired)