The stories of those who have endured and overcome the harrowing journey of topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) are one of the most sought for pieces of writing from people experiencing TSW. These books capture the unfiltered truth of a condition that has often been misunderstood, ignored, and unsupported by the medical community. Each author shares their unique struggle with courage, vulnerability, and resilience. These stories are not just about pain but about healing, hope, and triumph. They offer a cathartic release for the authors and inspire countless others who are navigating a similar path.
Below is a collection of powerful memoirs that chronicle the journeys of those who lived through TSW. Each book is a testimony to the power of perseverance and community, a reminder that no one has to go through this journey alone.
To Eczema with Love by Kelly Barta
Kelly’s book is a heartfelt letter to her former self and to anyone who feels lost in their battle with TSW. She shares her journey with grace and humour, bringing light to a dark time. This memoir will resonate with those who have felt frustrated, misunderstood, and desperate for relief, showing that love and acceptance are powerful forces for healing.
The Shape of Skin by Ruth Holroyd
Ruth captures the complex relationship we have with our bodies during illness. Through her battle with TSW, she reflects on how the condition changed her skin and the way she saw herself. This book is a poetic exploration of identity, loss, and the journey to rebuild self-love while navigating the physical and emotional pain of withdrawal.
Taper by Jason Vergara
Jason’s book explores a path less travelled and less shared on social media—tapering off topical steroids instead of quitting cold turkey. He takes readers through his personal journey with TSW, detailing the slow and deliberate process of tapering after twenty years of overuse. With candid storytelling, Jason offers a blend of insight, hope, and hard-earned lessons. He also delves into insights of creating TSW Assist, and the emerging protocols for TSW from unique health professionals. Jason reflects on the ongoing discourse between tapering and cold-turkey approaches on social media, and highlights the power of integrative health.
Curing My Incurable Eczema by Cara Ward
Cara’s journey is one of self-discovery and hard-fought healing. For years, she was told her condition was chronic, incurable eczema—until she discovered TSW. Through sheer determination and countless ups and downs, Cara found her way to wellness. This book is a raw and uplifting account of overcoming what was once deemed “incurable” and finding peace on the other side of TSW.
This is Not Eczema by Claire Oxenham
Claire’s story challenges the misdiagnosis and confusion that often plague TSW sufferers. In this deeply personal memoir, she details how she broke free from the cycle of steroids that worsened her condition. With emotional depth, Claire shares her healing journey, advocating for awareness and truth. Her experience will resonate with anyone who has ever felt unseen in the healthcare system.
Iron Skin by Brendan John Lee
Brendan’s story is as much about mental strength as it is about physical healing. His journey through TSW is a battle against despair, testing his resilience at every turn. With honesty and grit, Iron Skin explores how he rebuilt himself, layer by layer, using his inner strength to persevere through one of the most challenging times of his life.
Beyond the Itch: A Mother’s Story of Survival Through Topical Steroid Withdrawal by Melissa R.R.
Melissa’s memoir provides a heart-wrenching perspective of a mother living through TSW while balancing family life. Her story is a testament to survival, not just for herself but for her children. It’s a deeply emotional account of juggling motherhood with chronic illness, offering hope to others in the same fight.
These books are more than just stories—they inspire hope for better health. They reflect the reality of an iatrogenic illness that, for a long time, has been met with silence and misunderstanding. For anyone enduring the difficult path of withdrawal, these stories offer connection, understanding, and hope. You are not alone, and healing is possible.
