Breast cancer patient Sarah-Jane Phillips was so impressed with the care she received at Stevenage’s Lister Hospital that she found exactly the right words to say thank you.

She wrote a book about her experiences, and vowed to donate 50 per cent of any money she made to the health teams who helped her when she needed it most.

That’s led to £400 donations to the East & North Herts Hospitals Charity and the Primrose unit at Bedford Hospital.

Sarah-Jane’s book, Worms On Parachutes, has been a hit with readers using online site Amazon, harvesting a crop of five-star reviews.

She said: “The title comes from a recurring hallucination of worms attached to parachutes wearing white Elton John-style sunglasses, falling from the hospital ceiling before softly landing all over my body and bursting into song.

“It is my life story which deals with relationships, from doctors, nurses and surgeons to family and friends, openly and honestly.

“Judging from reviews on Amazon it is helping and supporting those experiencing cancer today – sharing experiences really does help!

“It’s fantastic to raise funds for the Lister and know that writing my book was so worthwhile.

“It is rewarding to know that not only am I raising funds for the NHS but I am also helping and inspiring others in their own journey as they understand you can come through cancer and turn the fear that you had when diagnosed into strength as you emerge having overcome it.”

Sarah-Jane, 44, had chemotherapy treatment at the Bedford hospital, and was referred to the Lister’s experts for microsurgery.

Hospitals charity fundraiser Zoe Doherty said “Sarah-Jane’s story is a very inspiring one and one which we hope will help others.

“We are extremely grateful to be receiving part of the books proceeds which will go towards ensuring that we are providing our patients with the very best care and support.”

Click here to find out more about Sarah-Jane’s book