Testimonials

A book I couldn’t put down! A true life and a heart wrenching powerful story of a young family and their daily struggles and battles with live trying to find a home, being homeless and living in a car after their father left them.

A young family out on the streets struggling to deal with everyday life. Dealing with alcohol abuse and mental health challenges to the point of needing medical care.

This book is well written and had me in tears, it was gripping and written with heart felt emotions.

Maria Goswell
Service Manager

 I found Show Me Heaven captivating and read it over two days. Donna described her experiences so clearly and it was fascinating to hear first-hand what the experience of gradually worsening psychotic episodes was like for her. I learnt a lot and feel a lot of respect for all that Donna has managed to achieve.

Dr Catherine Evans-Jones
Psychology Consultant 

 I thought this book (Show Me Heaven) about Donna’s difficult life was so extremely emotive. It was an honest portrayal about how she overcame tremendously tough challenges and bravely came through them, only to be faced with more. My heart went out to her as I read it. It was a really sincere and heartbreaking read…………………………….

Mrs Monica Jesse
Doctor of Psychology 

 Was very thankful to meet Donna. She is truly a wonderful person with great warmth and integrity. I was honoured when she lent me her book show me heaven. Truly an inspiring read which I read twice. Her honesty was compelling and her life difficult, but she has written a remarkable story with great detail. Very much appreciated. Thank you, Donna.

Ms Barbara Cottrell 

 Thank you for this window into such a tragic and so very often traumatic events of this unique and wholesome account of a girl then lady who has seen such sadness within her life. Show me Heaven had me grasped with emotion and intrigue. I salute you Miss Taylor for your truth and declarations. Remarkable lady.

Mr Darren Thorpe
Electrician 

 I’ve enjoyed every minute of reading Show me Heaven, it’s one of those books that you don’t won’t to put down hopefully you will write more honest material. I would recommend it.

Mrs Lorraine Dewey 

 An honest insight into a normal person’s life of the struggle and the triumphs that life is all about.
Brilliant read.

Mr Colin Bibby
IMHA & Musician  

Donna Taylor was my best friend through secondary school and although I knew that she went through hardship and pain up until that point in her life, I never really knew the full extent of it all because Donna never let it show. Her strength is incredible, and it especially came through when reading 'Show me Heaven'. It really hit home; how bad things have been in Donna's family life. I don't know anyone who has had to endure such darkness, sadness and turmoil throughout their life. Donna's account has taught me to always keep looking for that light at the end of the tunnel, whatever life might throw at you. She is a true survivor with a big heart. Stoic and truthful. 

Miss Lilly Norton

Great read - one of these autobiographies, one feels compelled to read cover to cover without putting it over for too long.

In her seemingly detached way of presenting her story, Donna somehow was able to touch a range of reader’s emotions by showing her determination to overcome obstacles life kept throwing at her and her family but also, ability to appreciate and celebrate even the smallest things in life. Brilliant example of writing about perseverance, acceptance and love.

Ms Sylwia Kamycka
Bed Manager at Prospect Park Hospital

 The reason I don’t watch ‘soaps’ is because it’s ridiculous to suggest that THAT much awful stuff can befall one person. Then I read ‘Show Me Heaven’. It’s almost beyond belief what Donna Taylor has lived through and then found the courage to put it into words. I found myself openly in tears while reading this moving, shocking yet uplifting auto biography. This has been written with grace and sensitivity by one who has suffered beyond her years yet continues to give to others through her work within the NHS. It was impossible to put down and even harder to forget what I’d read.

Ms Sally Kirby
Treasury Manager 

 “Show me Heaven” is an incredibly honest insight into Donna Taylor`s life and struggles. It`s a book about love, loss, strength and most importantly, how to pick yourself up after a series of impossible situations. Reading her book was a reminder that anyone can feel lost, and this beautifully mapped out the very personal journey that Donna went on to feel herself again. For someone who does not read for pleasure regularly, I couldn`t out it down.

Miss Lauren Elliott
Medical Records Administrator 

 This memoir shows the strength of character that Donna has. Her journey has clearly not been easy but through the right medical and spiritual intervention Donna finds her true self which enables her to live again. I`ve known Donna for many years and had no idea the anguish she held within. I am honoured that Donna asked me to be one of the fist readers of this incredible journey.

Mrs Sharon Smith 

This book is incredibly thought provoking. The strength people give to each other and from within oneself enables people to struggle through adversities that others cannot imagine. This book reminds us that behind the faces of those around us can often be a sadness that we cannot imagine, nor would we want to. The sadness stays for life, our strengths and beliefs carry us on.

Our society has become more adept to provide sanctuary to those in true need. Those that abuse the charity of others maybe should read this to discover the true meaning of “need”.

There by the grace of God I do not go.

Ms Michele Rose
Accountant

What a great read! Pulled at many heartstrings. I`ve been friends with Donna for many many years since we were both 14 years old. We`ve laughed together and cried together and what I find amazing about Donna she will most certainly see the funny side to everything! Good or bad she will laugh and put a funny spin on it. A real tough cookie that`s for sure.

Whilst I knew about Donna`s somewhat troubled life, it wasn`t until I read the book that I found out so much more. To be honest I can`t believe Donna still remains such a positive strong woman. She would do anything for you. So kind and thoughtful. I loved growing up with Donna and have some amazing memories good and bad.

I`m fortunate enough to have this lady in my life and was totally honoured to be one of the first to be given the book to read. Reading some of the stuff that`s gone on in her life (some of which I’ve witnessed) just makes me wonder how she ever found the strength to carry on but now I know – she`s one hell of a strong woman who I’m fortunate enough to call my friend. Everyone needs a Donna.

Mrs Natashya Sharp
Personal Secretary

I have known Donna Taylor as an esteemed colleague and team member of our service who embodies sincerity, simplicity, hard work, positive attitude and compassion. All of these qualities are mirrored in her first book ‘Show me Heaven’. Donna has portrayed an honest and poignant account of her incredible journey through the darkness. She has not only lived to tell the tale in this easily accessible and inspiring narration of trials and tribulations of living through a devastating mental illness but has also stared gently into the eyes of misfortune and reclaimed her life full of meaning and joy through sheer determination and positive attitude. There is no room for bitterness and cynicism in her story but rather a tremendous jest for life despite all odds. Hers’ is a story of resilience and self-empowerment despite a less than ideal social and healthcare structures to help an individual struggling with debilitating effects of mental illness on the individual and their families. Through the story, her kindred spirit, courage and an evolved sentience shines through. I am sure that many people will relate to her story and find a healing understanding of their personal suffering and be touched by the positive hope it evokes.

Dr.Manoj Kumar
Consultant Psychiatrist and Responsible Clinician

 `Show me Heaven’ was a very heavy-hearted book where I shed a few tears through each of the pages. The journey Donna has gone through is very difficult and her resilience is inspiring. It shows that there will always be a beaming light at the end of a dark tunnel. I am so happy that Donna is living a wonderful life now.

Jay 

 As a person that never reads books, I found this very hard to put down, and enjoyed every part of it whilst reading I felt part of the story hence, I read it start to finish to see the ending. I felt that although very sad the book was very well constructed.

Mr Barry Hack 

 Donna Taylor's book 'Show Me Heaven' really struck a chord in my heart and by reading of her personal journey, the tough tormenting times, the bad and the ugly, it highlights the mental and spiritual struggle which we all at times can go through. The book engaged on a deeper level and I salute Donna's honesty in touching on her past struggles within herself and family members and the sinking sadness which accompanies all of it. This is a book of her truth, which will have you gripped as you go through each emotion she lived, but leaving us with a ray of hope and a flicker of light.

Victoria BeeBee 

Singer/Songwriter

"Show me heaven"

What a truly remarkable lady whom has taken life's traumas and tribulations on reflection. Carried them forward and been able to express with such poignancy the debilitating events of her life in this book.

It was compelling reading from the start ,I was to  envisage the surroundings as she described and the torment Donna endured in life .

Such a profound account of events that were to leave such a beautiful soul in such dire situations.

My heart felt and sincerest thanks for sharing your story .A reflection of the enormous strength of character of a women who's honesty and selflessness knows no bounds .

Miss Fiona K Diggens

Carer

 I was privileged enough to read Donna’s story. I honestly couldn’t put it down, and had read it through in a day.

Donna can only be described as one of life’s beautiful people. Always kind, gentle and so incredibly strong. I was humbled by her story, and genuinely touched by the challenges she has faced.

Donna, thank you for opening yourself up, and sharing your story so far. I am lucky and grateful to know you.

Mrs Rachel Silk

Secretary

  Donna gave me a copy of her book “Show me Heaven”.

I picked it up one Sunday afternoon and couldn’t put it down. I read the whole book straight off.

It was like spending an afternoon with Donna and getting to know the real Donna.

The pain Donna has endured through her life is a testament of the lady she is today.

The book was so truthful and well written it just draws you in.

I also identified on a personal level as too have spent time at Prospect Park on Bluebell & Daisy ward.

Mrs Christine Cimmino

  Such a compelling read, that I read it all straight through!

I’m sure this book will help others, with how open & honest it is. 

I definitely could relate to some of the symptoms, the manic cleaning / trouble sleeping & how things start to build up & get out of control. 

When you scrape the surface there are  lots of people that have troubles but maybe not to your extent / upbringing. 

Ms Louise Hill

  "Donna takes us on a journey filled with hurdles but ultimately hope as she reveals challenges she has faced during her life."

David Watts

Hospital Administration Manager

  I am not a person that reads but once I started to read it I could not put it down it was heart breaking at times but shows anyone can conquer what is thrown at them and come out the other end fantastic read recommend it made me feel humble. 

Coralyne Harfield

  Donna, your book “Show me Heaven” was just what I was looking for real life experiences and not fiction, you had a desire to helps others by sharing your experience and knowledge.

I was very surprised by the level of detail about yourself that you had in the book, from childhood to your adult life, and the challenges you faced with your close nit family.

The book describes the uphill struggle and the dark places you endure in your life,  There was also some happy times too, Your personal journey with your husband described in the book has shown me an effective way to approach trouble memories.

The Credibility goes to you and your book, your book has inspired me to approach life in a different way.

Pamula Carmichael

Finance Manager

    "A heart-breaking, and ultimately, life affirming true story.  A frightening and timely reminder of the fragility of mental health and the courage it takes to stay strong.

Donna is an inspiration.  A selfless soul whose positivity and determination prove happy endings can happen... You just have to believe in them".

Duncan Barefoot

Occupational Therapist Assistant

  I met Donna at least 20 years ago through work, and we became firm friends,  Donna is such a warm friendly person, and would do anything for anyone.  No one was more surprised than me when she wrote such an incredible book.  Not just because it`s great heart warming, sometimes heart breaking story, but because, after all that she has been through, she is still standing, and still has such a big heart.  I was lucky enough to meet Norma, Donna`s mother who features in the book.  What a character.  Her life looking after her children in such adverse circumstances is to her eternal credit.  The book is an amazing read.  I cant recommend it highly enough!

Mrs Julia Birtwistle

   Show me heaven is a soul touching book which shows the fight, compassion and the resilience of Donna regardless of what life threw at her.

It explained psychosis in a way which makes the reader feel present and understand the anguish being suffered.

It shows how life can be turned into something amazing with a bit of hope.

It is a must read.

Miss Ivy Omari 

Matron Sorrel Ward, Prospect Park Hospital

   Show Me Heaven by Donna Taylor is an emotionally enthralling true story, and one that as soon as you start reading you are invested in and cannot put down. The book is beautifully insightful into another’s life and covers every emotion and feeling; happiness, love, family, but also sadness, trauma, and pain. As the reader following Donna’s story you feel every emotion and wave alongside her, and each event in the book will be unexpected and thought-provoking. Show Me Heaven is an inspiring tale which encourages the reader to be reflective on their own story and reaffirms the importance of compassion and love towards one another. I would highly recommend Show Me Heaven to anyone who enjoys reading captivating true stories that explore the high and low events in someone else’s life which has shaped them into who they are today. An excellent read!

Hannah Jungius

HR Administrator

I absolutely enjoyed reading Donna`s book: the suspense, good use of descriptive and narrative skills, delight of seeing those lovely memories in pictures and, of course, the a-lot-brighter accounts of all the positives.  Apart from the ability to start and finish it in one go- due to the fact that it is of a good and reasonable length, being neither too long nor too short - I am thrilled by the desire for more it leaves its readers with.  I was quickly stricken by the level of candour and tenacity with which she presented her story.

Packed with a lot of vivid memories recalled quite impressively, unaltered allusions, uncensored illusions, powerful imageries especially when describing those very difficult and horrendous moments/episodes of her life.  Donna`s memoir expresses the fact that the title truly reflects the battle.

I literally fought back tears as I read the touching, troubling account of her unsettled childhood.  Her brave resolve of narrating trauma, which, in itself, has a potential risk of retraumatising (in the context of reliving those unpleasant experiences which, like she suggested, cannot be glibly washed away or entirely separated from who we are)coupled with how she unpacked a cocktail of bad emotions such as anger, fury, cruelty, betrayal, losses, childhood poverty, fear, medical errors, agony, pressure, doubts, despair, horror, insecurity, failures, vulnerability; were all definitive of Donna`s courageous self.  Reassuringly, this story is also, quite emphatically and more than anything else, one of passion, compassion, courage, resilience and, ultimately, triumph.

I am pretty sure the story contained in Donna`s memoir will help fan the embers of hope for the many hopeless people out there who have been dealt a medical, mental, career and relationship blow, and who, just like Donna herself, so desperately, and quite often, secretly wail on the inside, with the exact same (re)quest: SHOW ME HEAVEN.

Israel Eweka

Support Worker at Prospect Park Hospital