The Trauma Cleaner
One woman’s extraordinary life in death, decay and disaster
autobiography, transgender, trauma support
Non-Fiction
Published by Text Publishing
The author charts the extraordinary Sandra Pankhurst bringing order and care to the living and the dead, in her role as a trauma cleaner. A compelling story of a fascinating life, and an affirmation that, as isolated as we may feel, we are all in this together.
Sandra Pankhurst started life as an abused adopted son in a working-class family. Following marriage, fatherhood and divorce, she made the transition to living as a woman. Now, as a trauma cleaner she helps those at life’s dark extremes. In telling Sandra’s extraordinary story, Sarah Krasnostein shines a light on the complex and lasting legacies of trauma.
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Reviews
“Through countless encounters with the fetid, the neglected, and the downright tragic, Pankhurst has found meaning and peace, and Krasnostein a singular subject whom she approaches with well-deserved awe.”
“Intriguing… A complex protagonist makes for engaging material.”
“Krasnostein’s writing is warm and curious. And, carefully, it draws a portrait of Pankhurst you’ll remember long after you’ve finished reading – a woman who is quietly, wonderfully triumphant while standing at the middle and centre of despair.”
