8: Rediscovering Life After a Brain Tumor

You might not think this book is for you, but I suggest that everyone could benefit from the wisdom shared by Nathalie in 8: Rediscovering Life After a Brain Tumor. The main narrative is universal: how do you reinvent your life, your dreams even, after unplanned obstacles or traumas? In “8”, Nathalie takes you on a journey through both joyous and tragic events in her life. They lead to a point where she has achieved almost everything she’s dreamed of, and then she receives the diagnosis no one could ever see coming. Afterwards Nathalie suffers from surgical complications that erode the cognitive function that she built her identity around. It could get very dark from there out, and there are moments of vulnerability and despair, but the undercurrent in Nathalie’s narrative is one of optimism and perseverance. The photo I posted with this review is my favorite quote from the book. “...Happiness, fulfillment and accomplishment will be a mix of achieving what you worked for, planned for and desired and surpassing the obstacles you didn’t plan for, ask for or deserve. Having the mental flexibility to reinvent yourself, your goals and what brings you joy and meaning in life will be the strength you need to continue building your life path without breaking you when things get in the way.” These are not just empty platitudes. Knowing her personally, I can attest to Nathalie’s conviction in these ideas. It’s worthwhile to read the uplifting words of a person who is truly living them.

Life is a rollercoaster, most us experience ups and downs to various degrees and at different points in our lives. This book describes an extreme ride though one woman’s incredible story. Although the book focuses on the author’s amazing journey of recovery after brain surgery, it also talks about the ups and downs, struggles and successes of her life previous to that life changing event. The story of her experience also highlights some troubling aspects of our health care system. I am sure this was not the purpose of the book but things like losing your job because it of a disability and therefore loss of health insurance, health care cost, ability to find appropriate healthcare, the time and effort required to get the care and benefits needed, and the need to continually fight for yourself are clearly highlighted here and are a good reminder to all. I also loved the chapter written by her husband, as I think sometimes we forget about the importance of caregivers and life from their point of view. The book concludes with her “lessons and advice”. One passage that I absolutely love and whole heartedly agree with is “Don’t just hope for a better moment, create it, work for it, and make it happen. Life does not happen for you; you make it happen.”

I got the kindle book and stayed up late reading it. What a gripping page-turner. Nathalie paints a vivid picture of her life before and after brain surgery, and her husband Simon's chapter at the end is an unexpected bonus, to get his perspective.I had a stroke four years ago, and while my brain damage isn't as extensive, I could relate to so much of what she said. I think the most poignant comment is what she said about being happy and sad at the same time. I've felt that so many times: gratitude that I'm alive and still able to do so many things, but grief for the things I can't do anymore. And I've also felt the amusement she describes at how weird the brain can be: when I discovered that I couldn't read the bass clef on my sheet music but could still read the treble clef, I thought it was odd an amusing. When my fingers wouldn't connect with the piano keys anymore, I just felt grief.This is such an honest and powerful book. Thank you so much for telling your story.

I had the pleasure of knowing Nathalie briefly as a stop on her journey. I can hear her voice reading the words in my head. (Though the grammar/prose are at times rough, this lends a tone of truth to the telling of her story - after cognitive injury and in her second language).While I got to know Nathalie briefly in person, I have learned so much more in reading her book. Despite the title and moral of this story, I might suggest that having a brain tumor is the least noteworthy thing about Nathalie Jacob! What an amazing life and person!This book gives hope to patients, showing that life can be good even if it’s not what you planned or expected. And it’s good information for caregivers, in seeing what to expect and validating their own experiences.-Dr Todd Giardina, Licensed Psychologist

This is a heart-felt, candid, fun! story of love, resilience, courage, accepting but never giving up. Realizing that health, friendship and love from our dear ones is never to be taken for granted, but always to be thanked. This book is about learning to live and to love again, after a life-changing situation. About cherishing what we have, practicing our patience, and planning for what may happen. I recommend this reading not just to people facing a brain tumor surgery or a life-threatening illness. It has helped me look at my own life-changing job loss from a different perspective. Reading Nathalie’s and Simon’s story has been a welcome blessing at a time when I needed some comfort and hope. Thank you!!

When I heard this book came out I was ecstatic! I immediately ordered it and have not put it down! A true reflection of the amazing person Nathalie is; both inside and out. A true story about a women who took a unexpected and difficult situation and shined above it. Pushed through; for herself, her family, her husband and what then would be her future children & now is an amazing example to her daughter! Love the spouses’s perspective as well from her husband Simon as so many caregivers need to know there is a light at the end of the tunnel and they are grateful for people like Nathalie and Simon who were courageous to share their story! Best of luck in your continued endeavors! ❤️

Brilliant

A story which is as heart-warming as it is heart-wrenching, Nathalie recounts her journey from high flying executive to blasé tumour patient and following devastating surgical side affects the long and often frustrating road of physical, mental and spiritual recovery. With humility, authenticity and no little humour Nathalie takes the reader on the journey she originally wrote just for her baby daughter but which also gave her renewed purpose. Well worth reading, especially if the context resonates.

I was very interested in this book as I have a brain tumour. It is a great book. Easy to read, informative and inspirational.

What an amazing account of what is such a challenging time, the author Nathalie manages to take the reader on the journey and at times it felt I was actually in the hospital rooms - expect highs and lows (and even as a 39year old man some tears) - would definetly recommend

An honest and brave story from an inspirational woman and mother. Thanks for sharing your experience with us, Nathalie. X