A Childhood Cancer Survivor Blogging about the World of Childhood Cancer

Posts tagged ‘Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery’

Slightest Movement Dance Performance

Tomorrow, at The City Playhouse in San Luis Obispo, I will be (very, very, very happily) performing with my fellow Civic Ballet dancers at 6:00.  Rehearsal yesterday was funny, because there was a huge rug taped to the floor that we are not allowed to move until the theater’s previous show removes its “prop.”  Unfortunately, their “prop” was a big problem for anyone who wanted to have a dance rehearsal– twisted ankles and broken legs just aren’t a good thing before a performance– or anytime!  Hmmm… a life challenge in the form of a rug… fascinating.

Last night, after rehearsal– or what was meant to be rehearsal– I went to meet Julie Campbell at the beach.  She is the talented photographer who shot my “Waltz of the Flowers” ballerina photo, and she is very kindly helping me create an “Author Photo” for Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery.  I joked with her, that I thought I should stand in a study filled with books and hold a pipe in my hand while I gaze at the massive library surrounding me.  We had some seriously hearty laughs, and after more than three hours of photos, my cheeks hurt, and my mouth was so pasty that it reminded me of those “oral contrast” days.  Pretty soon I will have a new mug shot.  Thanks Julie, for your kindness and patience while working with this giggly subject.

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Cover Design and Endorsements!

My friends, I am one excited person.  We finalized the cover design for Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery today… I am in love with my book cover!  My mom and I were joking, as I spurted my excitement about this, that I am going to have to change my “relationship status” on my Facebook Page from “single.”  We even took it a step further, imagining changing from “single” to “in a relationship” to “engaged” as my love for my cover grows!  It won’t be long before I reveal the book cover mystery:) for all to see.

I am very, very happy that endorsements are coming in each day from places where cancer patients can receive support.  Some of these organizations have even been so kind that they forward my information to other people, and foundations that they think will be interested in my story!  Now how nice is that?! 

So, even though my trip to the doctor’s yesterday revealed that I have a sinus infection and a touch of pneumonia, I have a big smile on my face, and a huge dose of gratitude growing in my heart.  I am grateful for the blessings of today!

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Cover Design Comps!

Today is the day that the cover design comps for Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey through Cancer and Recovery arrived from Sheila at Greenleaf!  Yes, yes, yes, I am excited!  She has given me a variety to consider, and I am happy I have a little time to consider each one.  Has it been difficult for you authors out there to choose, when it comes time to decide on your cover?  What things do you consider when choosing?  Is universal appeal a good thing, or would you narrow your images more specifically to your subject matter?  I guess that my “subject matter” covers quite the broad spectrum, so perhaps “universal” is good?

I had tricky ideas yesterday for April Fools Day, but I decided that it was best if I went easy on you.  Another deciding factor, sometimes the April Fooler turns into the April Foolee… just was not up for playing the part of being the April Foolee!

Tell me, tell me, what makes you like a book cover?  Decisions, decisions.  Fun decisions!

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Cottage Hospital Therapy Dogs

I saw a lady in the store last weekend, and she was wearing a shirt with a very cute dog picture on the front.  Come to find out, her dog had just graduated from Therapy Dog Training.  I think I scared the poor woman with my robust reaction.  (I did ask her if I could hug her before embracing her!) 

When I was in the hospital, the therapy dogs brightened my spirits like I cannot even describe.  There was 123 pound Leonberger, Rowan, and teeny-tiny Sugar, and spotted Dottie, and Sammy who kicked off the Let-Larry-on-the-Bed-Campaign, and many more.  Thanks to all of you therapy dogs, and your “people.”  You made me happy when I was very, very sick, and you still make me happy!

From Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery:

Dogs, dogs, and more dogs… my third round was Dog Round.  Jaynie knew just how much I loved visits from the many therapy dogs, so with one quick phone call, I nearly had dogs lining up at my door.  Echo, Scruffy, Carmel, Dottie, and Ralph all came to cheer me, with lolling tongues and wagging tails. 

   And then… there was Rowan.  Rowan is Jaynie’s registered therapy dog, a 122 pound Leonberger, with just as much love as fur.  Of course, Rowan not only had to be on the bed with me, but on top of me.  Her giant tongue painted my face with a layer of slobber.  Ah… I loved it. 

  She wore a bandana that read, “I didn’t ask to be a princess, but if the tiara fits…”

     Her giant paws were as big as my feet and, in terms of pounds, Melinda + Melinda = Rowan.  Her huge, gentle, compassionate eyes stared, not only into my eyes but, into my heart.  

Dogs, dogs, and more dogs… my third round was Dog Round.  Jaynie knew just how much I loved visits from the many therapy dogs, so with one quick phone call, I nearly had dogs lining up at my door.  Echo, Scruffy, Carmel, Dottie, and Ralph all came to cheer me, with lolling tongues and wagging tails. 

   And then… there was Rowan.  Rowan is Jaynie’s registered therapy dog, a 122 pound Leonberger, with just as much love as fur.  Of course, Rowan not only had to be on the bed with me, but on top of me.  Her giant tongue painted my face with a layer of slobber.  Ah… I loved it. 

  She wore a bandana that read, “I didn’t ask to be a princess, but if the tiara fits…”

     Her giant paws were as big as my feet and, in terms of pounds, Melinda + Melinda = Rowan.  Her huge, gentle, compassionate eyes stared, not only into my eyes but, into my heart. 

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“Someone #3” Believe it or Not!

My mom smiles as I squeal when a new endorsement comes in 🙂  There are three things I would love to blurt out, but I have found that there is a certain etiquette to this book endorsement gathering process.  “Someone #1” is reading Chapter 8 right now– his manager requested more, and already promised an endorsement.  And then there is that “Someone #2” who I have received the endorsement from, but I need to get her management a release before I “release.”  And then, there is “Someone #3,” who I have yet to tell you about!  This “Someone #3” is part of an organization that has already told me they would be “thrilled” to endorse my book, but a testimonial from this “Someone #3,” who is associated with this organization, would be simply amazing! 

I am really, really, incredibly excited that Greenleaf has begun the cover design process for Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery!  I know what the “theme” of the cover will be, and I am anxiously awaiting the opportunity to view the cover designs to choose from.

Do you know that Roger Daltry of The Who started Teenage Cancer Trust?  How inspiring it is to know that he has a heart for kids.  I am going to add him to my Golden List of “Heroes for Kids” right alongside Jeff Foxworthy.  Thanks so much for caring, you have no idea what it means…

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Subbing, Silliness and Dr. Josh

Guesses? 

There hasn’t been a correct guess yet for “Someone #1” or “Someone #2.”  I have had some very thoughtful ideas, but no bullseye yet.  Do you need Clue #2 for “Someone #2?”

First I want to tell you that all weekend, I have been thinking of Dr. Josh at his computer.  I wonder how it is going?  Do you think he is enjoying writing the Forword for Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery?  I am so excited to see what he will write!  Dr. Josh has a great sense of humor, even donning a cardboard crown for my end of hospital chemo party.  What a guy.  You know, looking back, I realize even more how much his kind and caring ways helped me express joy that day that I needed to let out.  Being my “substitute” doctor, he could have stayed aloof and indifferent.  But he chose to give me joy by participating in my silly party games, and by wearing silly props. 

Silliness rocks.  I love silliness. 

Thank you Dr. Josh… for subbing, for silliness, and for your kind gift to me and the rest by writing the Forword.

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Clue #2 For “Someone #1”

I loved being able to see many people who I love and care about today at the book signing for Relay for Life!  I was so surprised to see my basketball coach (who was an awesome coach,) Joe Moreno walk in.  Another wonderful surprise was Nat Fast showing his always incredible smile and warmth, and if you haven’t seen his artwork… well, it is way past time!  (Faculty Emeritus, Art Department, Allen Hancock College/PCPA Associate Artist)  Barbara Miller, my homeschool teaching advisor for several years before I got sick surprised me too.  And then, there were Gramma and Poppy who are always there to love and support me. 

It was fun sharing, and the people who came asked really good questions.  It seemed like everyone had fun, and we raised money to fight back against cancer.  Very, very, very cool.

On to the Guessing Games…

Okay, now for clue #2 for “Someone #1.”

Do you remember clue #1?

Anyway, clue #2 for “Someone #1” is “Type of.”

Wait till you see the prize! 

By the way, have you figured out who “Someone #2” is yet?

Wow, you are quite sharp, aren’t you?

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“Someone #2” The Guessing Game Expands

Okay, how am I supposed to keep quiet when I feel like squealing?!  Another really, really cool endorsement for Grace: A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery came in today!  This someone, who shall henceforth be referred to as “Someone #2,” sent me a quote that touches my heart.  And I know that this “Someone #2” is just as busy in life as “Someone #1” or “Cheese.”

I am thinking hard about a clue for “Someone #2,” while we are awaiting the finalization of papers… hmmm… 

How about “Morning Person.”  Yes, the first clue for endorser “Someone #2” is Morning Person.

I will be thinking of clue #2 for “Someone #1.”

Happy guessing– or telepathy, or whatever other assett you plan on using!

I had better think of a prize.  Prizes make things more fun!

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Say Cheese!

Okay… I need to breathe… you know how it feels when surprises come out of the clear blue air?! One of those “clear blue air” things happened!  My oh my!

Are you guessing yet?  Do you like Guessing Games?

Okay, let’s play!

I received an email response from one of my endorsement requests that, to be very honest, tickles me. “Someone’s” manager asked me to call when I “get the chance.” I found the chance as soon as I could. On the other end of the phone, I found the warmest, most caring man who told me that he has been “Someone’s” manager for twenty-three years. And then… he told me that “Someone” is going to endorse my book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Do you know who “Someone” is?

I will give you a clue.

“Cheese”

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Dr. Joshua Schiffman

I don’t think I have told you that Dr. Joshua Schiffman, Medical Director, High Risk Pediatric Cancer Clinic Division of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology, Dept. of Oncological Sciences at the Huntsman Cancer Institute has agreed to write the Forword for Grace:A Child’s Intimate Journey Through Cancer and Recovery !  I am very, very happy about this for so many reasons!!!!!!!!!!!! 

I met Dr. Josh when he came to Cottage Hospital to “sub” for Dr. Dan during my fourth round of chemo.  Without spoiling the Forword, I will tell you that he and I have a lot in common.   I liked him so much when he took care of me that I made him a Giant Card in my “hospital art studio.”  Dr. Josh and Dr. Dan have something in common… they give and give and give and give so that children like me can survive. 

From Grace: 

    Next in my hospital art studio, was the creation of The Giant Card.  It was for Dr. Josh, and it was a 3′ x 5′ masterpiece, if I might say so myself.  I couldn’t merely make him a normal card– I wasn’t normal. 

     Coloring the huge, block letters, spelling out, “Thank You Dr. Josh,” I told Mom, “I want to give him something he has to lug around.”

     I taped and glued just about everything to it.  Examination gloves, medicine cups, sterile wipes, and those sticks they use to squish your tongue down, were all adorned with flashy, silvery glitter. 

     My lunch arrived right in the middle of my project.  I felt I was far too busy to eat, but quickly observed my food options.  Opening my bowl of soup, I found an unexpected item floating amid its brothy liquid.  Nurse Nancy and Nurse Gail surprised me– with a plastic fly swimming in my soup.  Laughing, I turned to them, and their sneaky expressions changed to smiles.  Ah… I loved it.  Thank God I didn’t get boring nurses.  I would have died, not of cancer but, of boredom.  We all decided that I should tape the fly on Dr. Josh’s card and, once it was securely fastened, I observed my work.  Beautiful.  He was going to love it.

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