Adrienne Wilson’s Story

Better Off Bald: A Life in 147 Days, a bestselling and award-winning medical memoir tells the story of Adrienne's 147-day battle with liver cancer and the seven-year period she lived with her sister.

You can also listen to Adrienne's story about her 147-battle with liver cancer via the Better Off Bald podcast series.

Andrea and Adrienne at Universal Studios Summer 1995

Universal Studios Summer 1995

When asked to describe Adrienne, her family and friends chose these words: extraordinary, brilliant, wicked smart, sardonic wit, loquacious, enthusiastic, positive, amazing, incredible, heroic, passionate, stubborn, memorable, inspiring, beautiful, creative, sweet, loving, outgoing, funny, hysterical, quirky, delightful, remarkable, strong, enigmatic, bohemian, unforgettable, shining star, young spirit, old soul.

For me, Adrienne was the best kid ever. She was my child, my sister, and my best friend. My everything. When I gained custody of Adrienne, she was eight years old, and I was 22 years old. She taught me how to be a parent, and I gave her unconditional love. People often commented how we were so different at first glance, but if you looked closely, we were very much alike.

One friend said, “Both are bright, beautiful, determined, energetic, hard-working, and strong-willed. But even more importantly, they are passionate and protective of their loved ones. They will go to the ends of the earth for the people they care about — especially each other."

I could not save Adrienne from liver cancer, but I have made it my mission to tell her story and to help others suffering from this devastating disease. Together — we can fight and win — the war against liver cancer.

Adrienne was an excellent student who loved to read and write. She chronicled the highs and lows of her liver cancer journey in her online journal.

Adrienne Wilson cutting her hair before chemotherapy May 2001

Adrienne cutting her hair before chemo begins