An Interview with Lorraine Tate
I’m Lorraine, mother to Lexie-Rose and currently in chapter fifty-two! Lifesaving surgery in 2020 meant I was going to have to live with a stoma. Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2004 following a trip to India was where it all began. In 2023 I made the decision to make my ileostomy permanent…the Barbie butt…well, if it’s good enough for Barbie, it’s good enough for me!
What inspired you to start writing this book?
To help others going through the same or similar. If suffering with any type of bowel, bladder disease, or accident/injury or looking after someone, then this book will help them to understand and hopefully not feel so alone.
Tell us the story of your book’s current title. Was it easy to find, or did it take forever?
I wanted it to be clear and say exactly what it was about. I kept writing different ones down and coming back to the same one.
Describe your dream book cover.
I was going to use a picture of a pineapple upside-down cake or Bakewell tart, but I couldn’t get the resolution right!
If your book had a soundtrack, what are some songs that would be on it?
– Don’t Stop Me Now
– You’ve Got a Friend in Me
– Rise Up
– I’m Still Standing
– What Doesn’t Kill You
– I Will Survive
– Three Little Birds
– Happy
What books are you reading (for research or comfort) as you continue the writing process?
I have finished, but I read lots of medical research and try to cut out the medical jargon.
What other professions have you worked in? What’s something about you that your readers wouldn’t know?
I managed a nursing home, I was a health and social care lecturer, and I have a law degree.
Who/what made you want to write? Was there a particular person, or particular writers/works/art forms that influenced you?
My daughter. She said ‘Why don’t you write about your experience to help others?’ I always say that if you can’t find what you’re looking for, then fix it! Become the answer.
Where is your favorite place to write?
Home, in my lounge. With my daughter and two dogs, Bella and Buddy!
What advice would you give your past self at the start of your writing journey?
Don’t buy and eat too many snacks whilst writing!!
What’s one thing you hope sticks with readers after they finish your book?
Living with an ostomy does not mean the end!!
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