Published 1 day ago • loading... • Updated 1 day ago
Chilliwack Author Releases Memoir About Surviving Mother’s ‘Web of Lies’
Phillippa Mann says her mother fabricated illnesses and family stories, and the memoir traces how the lies led to repeated psychiatric care.
Chilliwack resident Phillippa Mann released her memoir House of Cards: Surviving Munchausen by Proxy and a Mother's Web of Lies in February, with a book signing scheduled for Saturday, June 27 at The Book Man.
Her memoir details a childhood defined by her Mother's undiagnosed Munchausen by Proxy, a mental illness where caregivers exaggerate symptoms in children to gain attention; Mann was admitted to a Hospital psych ward twice.
Seeking answers about a five-year memory gap, Mann requested medical records from Surrey Memorial Hospital and BC Children's Hospital at age 50 in January 2025, uncovering the extent of her Mother's deception.
Writing the memoir served as timeline therapy, freeing Mann from lifelong embarrassment; she received positive feedback, with one reader telling her, "Wow. That story really touched my heart."
Mann hopes to show People they are not alone, emphasizing that People are stronger than they realize; copies of House of Cards cost $25 and are available at the June 27 signing.