Allen & Unwin Up Until Now book Biography English Paperback 368 pages

The inspirational true story of an amazing Australian woman who has devoted her life to helping people experiencing life-threatening illnesses and devastating mental distress.

'Petrea King is one of those rare Australians who have changed the country for the better.' Richard GloverAs a child Petrea King was dogged by health issues, spending months in hospital over many years. After leaving school, her desire to help others impelled her to become a nurse, then later to qualify as a naturopath, herbalist, homoeopath, yoga instructor and meditation teacher. In her early thirties Petrea was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and given little chance of surviving. She defied her dire prognosis, and believes meditation and coming to terms with past traumas, including the suicide of her brother Brenden, were key to her recovery. Motivated by her own experiences, Petrea founded the Quest for Life Foundation to support people suffering devastating physical and mental illnesses. Up Until Now is her inspirational tale of how she overcame her own challenges to dedicate her life to others.'The wisdom Petrea imparts, and her compassion and sensitivity, have helped hundreds of thousands of people, providing them with hope in troubled times.' Tony Delroy

Petrea King is the CEO of the Quest for Life Foundation, and a well-known author, inspirational speaker, teacher and facilitator.Petrea came to the forefront of wellness education after overcoming acute myeloid leukaemia in her early thirties. She sees crisis as a catalyst for personal growth, understanding, healing and peace. Both individually and through residential programs, Petrea has counselled tens of thousands of people living with cancer and other life-challenging illnesses, as well as grief, loss, trauma and tragedy. She has also given lectures and conducted workshops around Australia and internationally. Petrea is the author of the best-selling book, Your Life Matters: The Power of Living Now and is a regular guest on ABC radio. She has been featured on Australian Story, Compass, This is Your Life and the acclaimed documentary Quest for Life: A Year in the Life of Petrea King. Petrea was awarded the Advance Australia Award, Citizen of the Year and the Centenary Medal for her contribution to the community. She has two adult children and lives with her partner, Wendie Batho, in the Southern Highlands in New South Wales.