Literature
Michele Roys launches groundbreaking memoir, ‘But You Look Just Fine’ in Limerick
Author Michele Roys pictured at a book reading for the launch of her memoir ‘But You Look Just Fine’
Michele Roys launched her powerful memoir ‘But You Look Just Fine’ with a special event held at The Savoy Hotel in Limerick
On Daffodil Day, a national symbol of compassion and support for those battling cancer, author and advocate Michele Roys launched her powerful memoir But You Look Just Fine at The Savoy Hotel in Limerick.
The event welcomed more than 100 guests, including advocates, wellness professionals, and community leaders—among them Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, who gave a moving and heartfelt address.
The Mayor spoke passionately about the importance of compassion and understanding in the face of invisible illness, “When you meet someone, you never know what they’re carrying in their body or their mind. Chronic illness isn’t always visible—and that’s why we must choose kindness. This book will already have done a lot of its purpose if we leave here a little more understanding than we came.” He also shared his personal pride in supporting an event so rooted in empathy and resilience, stating: “It isn’t easy to write a book, especially while dealing with everything Michele was going through. That’s incredible.”
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The evening was hosted by MC Mary Dunphy, Board and CEO Advisor; Chairperson at Mash Up Ireland (Nasdaq listed) and Kollect; and Advisor at UNICEF, and featured special guest Martina Phelan, Chair of Chronic Pain Ireland, who shared about the organisation’s work and their commitment to improving the lives of those living with chronic pain. The event created an atmosphere of warmth, reflection, and connection.
But You Look Just Fine tells Michele’s deeply personal story of living with Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN)—a condition so painful it’s known as the “suicide disease”—alongside fibromyalgia and Lyme disease. Michele’s memoir not only documents her struggle through excruciating, invisible pain but also highlights her journey toward rediscovering joy, self-worth, and purpose.
“I was told I looked fine, even when I was barely holding on,” Michele shared. “This book was written for anyone who has ever felt unseen, misunderstood, or dismissed—not just those with chronic illness, but anyone navigating an invisible struggle.”
The launch coincided with the first days of spring—a season symbolic of renewal and hope, reflecting the core message of the book: healing may not mean going back to who you were, but becoming who you are meant to be.
Michele’s heartfelt storytelling resonated deeply with the audience. From tears to laughter, the evening served as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, joy is still possible.
But You Look Just Fine is available now at www.micheleroys.com, Amazon, and selected retailers. Michele is available for interviews, podcast appearances, and media features. Her story is a must-hear for anyone covering health, wellness, resilience, mental health, or women’s empowerment.
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