Scratching the Surface

*Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review!*

Allyson’s lifelong battle with chronic eczema and her lengthy experience with topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) was both heartbreaking and inspiring. Heartbreaking — because medication is prescribed so carelessly to patients, with zero consideration given to long-term side effects…which undoubtedly harms a significant amount of people each year. Inspiring — because Allyson bravely decided to stop taking topical steroids in order to complete an arduous healing process. She knew her skin would have to physically heal, but she didn’t anticipate the inner healing that would simultaneously occur.

Allyson’s memoir feels like a long journal entry or a letter written to a close friend. By the end of it, I found myself wanting to sit down with her over a cup of coffee and learn more about her experience — which seemed both grueling and eye-opening. I enjoyed both her introspective reflections and her raw honesty about how challenging TSW was and how long it took to conquer. I’m astounded that she persevered for several years through eczema flares that were extraordinarily uncomfortable and painful. It’s really a testament to how strong and resilient humans are when they decide, deep in their heart, that they want or need to do something.

I gave the book three stars because I feel like it could have been structured in a more organized fashion, and I also think the length could’ve been shorter. There were some parts that I ended up skimming. But overall, it was a really inspiring story.

Steedman's story is heartfelt and emotional. You don't really hear about TSW, Topical Steroid Withdrawal, which can result from overuse of a commonly prescribed medication. Sadly, while it can be helpful, it can also cause harm to the patient. Steedman shares her struggle, along with the inner healing that had to accompany the outer healing. This book is more like a journal than a memoir, and the reader feels like they're having a chat with a friend. The author is strong and resilient, which is encouraging. Some parts were a bit overdetailed, and the book might have benefitted from a tighter edit. An inspiring read overall, especially for those experiencing similar challenges.

I always hate giving memoirs a rating because it’s someone’s personal story!

I enjoyed this memoir - as another chronic eczema sufferer it was interesting to see another perspective. I’ve never gone through the TSW - that’s so scary!

This was a genuine, heartfelt memoir. I truly connected with the story and the author.

I loved how brave this book was. The story was interesting and I felt like the author was telling me her struggles and then triumphs. The writing was really good and it flowed easily from one experience to the next. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. Five stars!