A Story Shaped by Family
My Mum’s a Chameleon began as a heartfelt expression of love and support from dad to daughter.
Its emotional reach makes it more than a child’s storybook — we hope it will help others share their story — their truth.
Sensitively written, full of hope, vibrantly illustrated, this book will touch you.
A book brought to life by family — and we’re proud to share it with you.
Reveal my story
The Journey Begins
Hi, I’m Shannon — and I’m touched to share my hair loss journey with you.
The news didn’t come as a shock. My body had been whispering for a while, but with the madness of wedding planning, starting a new job, and being a mum, I didn’t slow down when I should have.
Sharing daily updates on treatments, wigs, hair loss, holistic methods, and how to talk about cancer with my 4-year-old really helped me stay positive.
I was determined to focus on the good — and that mindset found its way into the book:
“It seems she’s developed a magical skill…
Like a chameleon, she can change colour at will.”
Well… if you can then why not?
Being Mum Came First
My daughter, Ophelia, is my world. My first thought wasn’t about me, it was about how I’d keep being her mum.
Could I still manage the school run, birthday parties, play dates? There was only one option: to survive. And I chose to take her on that journey with me.
Honesty, Wigs & Brave Steps
Ophelia came to the hairdressers when I cut my hair to donate to the Princess Trust. She was there at the barbers when we shaved it.
There were no scars, no bandages, just a bald head. So, to make things less scary, I started wearing wigs. I explained: the medicine makes my hair fall out, but it’ll grow back.
And in the meantime, the wigs helped me look like the “mummy” she knew when we were out and about.
No Fear, Just Focus
Luckily, I never felt afraid of cancer. My mum and step-mum had both survived breast cancer with incredible grace.
Thanks to them, I stepped into this journey without fear.
We’re Warriors — We Adapt
People praised my positivity, but honestly, it felt like what any mum would do.
After all, mums are warriors, superheroes, and chameleons.
We fight. We save. And yes, we adapt… even down to our hair.
My Diagnosis
When you first hear the news its hard to comprehend and absorb what you have just been told but in simple terms my X-ray showed a large mass in my chest area the size of a rugby ball.
The tumour was so large it was sitting on my diaphragm, causing my right lung to deflate and meaning my heart was being pushed under my armpit.
Read the full story on Lymphoma actions website.
https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/shannon
THE BIG REVEAL... A heart melting moment.
Reveal family story
Seeing Through a Child’s Eyes
This story explores a sensitive subject through a light-hearted lens, told from a child’s point of view.
It was created from just three original sketches to show how changing hair style or colour can affect how we feel, and how others see us.
Courage Through Tough Times
Inspired by my eldest daughter Shannon, a devoted mum who, at just 30 years old and newly married, received life-changing news: a large cancerous tumour in her chest that required urgent chemotherapy.
It was with enormous pride that I witnessed her calm strength and clear focus on staying positive.
Her mental attitude was remarkable, and helped comfort her 4-year-old daughter, Ophelia, who quickly understood that while her mum would lose her hair, it would grow back.
A Chameleon Spirit, Since Childhood
Growing up, Shannon was always changing her look, bold colours, different styles, so I often called her a chameleon. That playful trait became a strength.
During treatment, she wore colourful wigs in public while confidently embracing her bald look at home.
As a result, Ophelia became completely at ease knowing her mum was still her mum, no matter what she looked like.
Anna’s Story – Aunt & Illustrator
When Shannon was diagnosed, I couldn’t quite believe it. Daily chats became our thing and deepened our connection.
Then Steve shared a story he’d written, along with a few sketches, and I was genuinely touched.
“Hi Sis, fancy bringing these illustrations to life?”
Within a few months, we had a printed copy in hand. My aim was to create soft, colourful, and sensitive artwork, and I hope readers feel the love and care this book exudes.
Jess’ Story – Cousin & Illustrator, Narrator
We’re close in age, so Shannon’s diagnosis was a real shock. On this shared journey I've come to understand that bringing words to life is no easy task, but one line from the story really stood out:
"She has lots of accessories to complete her look... “You can see how many from the photos I took.“
Inspired by a single photo, I created a set of Polaroid-style illustrations to reflect the character’s changing looks.
We also wanted to reach those unable to read; I didn’t expect just how emotional it would be to narrate the story; but it’s clear the words are touching people, and that’s something I’m proud of.
Jai's Story – Sister & Filmmaker
When your big sister receives devastating news, and you’re away at Uni, it hits hard. It changes your perspective.
The book already includes interactive elements to spark conversations and engage young readers, but we always felt it could be more.
Now, as I finish my film degree, I’m putting my heart and soul into a short live-animation film. I’m excited to share it soon.
We also hope to develop a colouring app to help children express themselves creatively and emotionally, because sometimes, stories need more than words.
Kay’s Story – Step Mum & Crafter
With breast cancer already part of our lives, Shannon’s diagnosis still came as a shock. I was fortunate to avoid chemotherapy, but for Shannon, that simply wasn’t an option.
The idea of a suncatcher, a symbol of light and hope, felt like my way to contribute.
We created a unique handcrafted vinyl sticker to accompany the book. Ophelia absolutely loves it. A little bit of magic, ever-changing throughout the day.
Being creative has helped us all process this journey. This story matters, and we hope it brings comfort and strength to others, just as it has for us.