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Some books are meant to educate, others to make someone laugh, or provide inspiration and motivation, or emotional and personal growth. My objective in writing my books is a combination of all of these.

 

I have stage IV cancer and am not letting this cancer define my life or dictate how I will live my remaining days.

 

My first book, "Living While Dying," is more than a memoir; it's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. This book offers an intimate look into my journey with stage IV cancer, providing a raw and honest account of the physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges I faced daily. Readers will find solace in the candid portrayal of my struggles and triumphs, learning that life, even when shadowed by a terminal diagnosis, can be filled with meaning, purpose, and beauty. Through my story, I hope to inspire others to cherish each moment, find strength in vulnerability, and live authentically despite life's uncertainties. This book is for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of living fully in the face of mortality.

 

In "Chasing My Northern Lights," my second book, I take you on an adventure across stunning landscapes of North America, illustrating how travel and nature have become my sanctuary and source of strength. This travel narrative intertwines personal reflections on the healing power of nature with practical insights on how exploring the world can offer profound emotional and spiritual benefits. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or someone seeking inspiration to venture out, this book will ignite your wanderlust and show how connecting with the natural world can provide solace and perspective during life's most challenging times. My experiences demonstrate that the pursuit of beauty and adventure is not just a diversion from illness but a path to healing and resilience.

Why read the books

living while dying
Living While Dying
$14.99 US
Thom Barratt- Best selling author

Living While Dying

An inspiring wake-up call to embrace and cherish every moment of life. Living While Dying is a blend of adventure and resilience—a guiding light for others facing life's hardest challenges with unwavering strength and optimism.  Eight years ago, Thom's life took an unexpected turn with a prostate cancer diagnosis. Initially, he believed surgery to remove his prostate would cure him, but the cancer had already advanced to stage III, spreading beyond the gland. At the time, he believed he was already living life to the fullest, but facing a potentially limited lifespan changed his perspective entirely. From the initial signs of rising PSA levels to the life-altering biopsy in 2016, the book chronicles Thom's journey to active living and traveling. Despite the diagnosis, Thom has embraced life and aimed to give as much as he has received from it. After a period of remission, the cancer returned in 2019, and despite these challenges, Thom has continued to lead a fulfilling life, traveling and volunteering. Now 67, he faces the realities of stage IV cancer with determination and hope, aiming to surpass survival expectations and maintain a quality life. His thirst for adventure is taking him from Antarctica to South America to an awe-inspiring circumnavigation of Australia. Gazing into the future, Thom's ambitions are limitless. Living While Dying is a deeply personal narrative about living fully in the face of illness. It sheds light on the daily challenges of living with both the disease and its treatments and explores how it impacts those close to individuals facing this diagnosis. While this isn't a how-to guide on battling cancer, Thom shares his journey of living with it, emphasizing the importance of a positive outlook and truly living life, not merely existing with the disease. Through his inspiring story, Thom hopes to ignite a spark in readers, encouraging them to seize every moment, whether navigating their own cancer journey or supporting a loved one on that challenging path.

Reviews

"This book left me profoundly grateful that you shared your journey. It provided me with a deeper understanding of both you and the challenges of cancer. Your adventures have always amazed me; this book revealed even more of your incredible spirit. While I've admired your creativity and boundless zest for life, I now greatly appreciate your resilience and willingness to push boundaries.  Your enduring strength, unwavering determination, and sheer grit are as inspiring as ever." 

- Steve K. 

Chasing My Northern Lights
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$14.99 US

Chasing My Northern Lights

In Chasing My Northern Lights, readers are invited into a world where the boundaries between adventure and introspection blur against the backdrop of Earth's most captivating landscapes. This isn't just a travelogue; it's a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Thom Barrett, whose very existence has been shaped by the intersection of wanderlust and adversity, navigates the challenges of living with stage IV prostate cancer while embarking on a seven-month odyssey of Overlanding and skiing during the years of 2022–23. Barrett's raw and unfiltered narrative confronts the harsh realities of illness while presenting the transformative power of embracing life's uncertainties. Rooted in lived experience, Chasing My Northern Lights is a beacon of hope for those navigating their trials. It offers a unique perspective on finding beauty in uncertainty and strength in struggle. With each turn of the page, be reminded of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of seizing every moment with courage and grace. From the celestial dance of the Northern Lights to the rugged allure of mountain peaks, each encounter can become a testament to the profound connection between humanity and the Earth. Through Thom Barrett's immersive storytelling, readers are transported into the heart of the wilderness, where every sunrise brings the promise of renewal and every sunset whispers of resilience. By the journey's end, Chasing My Northern Lights leaves readers with a renewed sense of purpose and a profound appreciation for the beauty that surrounds them. For those who dare to chase their own Northern Lights, this book is a guiding light in life's wilderness.

Reviews

A breathtaking blend of adventure and introspection. Thom Barrett's journey through some of Earth's most stunning landscapes is a powerful testament to resilience and the human spirit.

- Kelly Flyn

Between Worlds- Epic overland journey
Launch in July 2025

Between Worlds- Epic overland journey

Embarking on an extraordinary journey through South America, I am set to explore its vast landscapes and rich cultures, all while navigating the challenges of living with stage IV cancer. This four-month expedition starting in February 2024 will take me from the vibrant streets of Buenos Aires, Argentina, to the tranquil paradise of Bonaire, covering a myriad of breathtaking destinations including Antarctica, Chile's Marble Caves, the ancient ruins of Peru, and the evolutionary wonders of the Galapagos Islands. Beyond the thrill of kayaking, rafting, and hiking, this voyage is a profound quest for resilience and a celebration of life's beauty amidst adversity. With a heart open to adventure and a spirit undeterred by my health battle, I invite you to join me on this introspective and exhilarating expedition. Follow my journey at www.livinglifewhiledying.com and on Instagram (Tidalpursuit) for live updates and to share in the experience of discovering the vibrant spirit of South America and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

We invite you to leave a review....

If Thom’s story and travels have inspired or motivated you, we invite you to share your thoughts with other readers by leaving a review at the retail outlet where you purchased the book. Your feedback helps others discover Thom's impactful narrative and fosters a community of support and understanding.

 

We value your perspective and welcome your insights. Please don't hesitate to contact us today to share your thoughts. Your feedback is invaluable as we continue to strive for meaningful connections through Thom's story.

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