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.
Buy this book
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.”