Title: Patient
Author: Ben Watt
Publisher: Grove Press (August 10, 1997)
Paperback: 177 pages

Blurb
In the summer of 1992, on the eve of an American tour, Ben Watt, one half of the Billboard-topping pop duo Everything But The Girl, was taken to a London hospital complaining of chest pain. He didn’t leave for two and a half months. Watt had developed a rare life-threatening disease that initially baffled doctors. By the time he was allowed home, his ravaged body was forty-six pounds lighter and he was missing most of his small intestine. Watt injects pathos and humor into his medical nightmare, writing about his childhood, reflecting on his family and on his shared life with band member and partner Tracey Thorn. The result is a provocative and affecting memoir about life, illness, and survival.

My Review
Patient by Ben Watt is a autobiographical narrative about his struggle to fight against death and a rare illness. It was a different read for me, in the sense that it was the very first time I was exploring a patient's perspective, which time and again made me realize about the fleeting nature of life. The book very well captures the experience of hospital stay journey along with managing the disquieting feelings of family members. 

Ben Watt, who is the author, is also a remarkable songwriter, musician, radio presenter and DJ. The story is heart-rending and plain-speaking and offers an unflinching view of author's life in hospital. But there were certain expressions here and there which also caused hilarity while reading. The writing style is plain and simple, yet effective and striking. 

I liked the truthful and candid approach. How Ben is struck by the strangeness of his surroundings inclusive of other patients of varying age and health conditions, visitors continuously entering or leaving and have health professionals on yelp.

The story additionally outlines how body reacts to medicines and diverse medical treatment, and also about our body's ability to heal itself. 

The author laid bare his soul and put forwards the revelations about his early life and personal relationships. The amount of honesty that comes out while elucidating his bond with his close ones and how he brings forth his exposure to different medical evaluation is noteworthy. 

However, there were a few instances where I felt that the medical description was detailed and stretched a bit, which got me distracted in some parts.

Overall, a short and quick read and engaging read.

Apparently, our entire mind and mood changes the minute we are susceptible to any sickness, injury or health effects. What's your emotional and psychological take on illness? Share your stories.

Rating: 4/5

Buy your copy: Patient