I started writing almost twenty years ago – with a coming out story/memoir that I am currently in the process of finishing this fall. My writing stems from the same ideas that impact my teaching and coaching. Reminders about being more open-minded, to love ourselves a little more, and to hold onto hope when we face challenges in our lives. I think books are important for that, I know how a great story affects me, and the educator and coach in me wants to do the same things on a grander scale for other people as well. Because to be honest, life is hard, and it is full of struggles, and it’s also amazing and full of cycles where we rebound into something even better than before. Sharing that understanding, that goal, that’s why I write.
I started writing this novel in 2009, after losing my remarkable dog, Rawley, to a bone tumor. As the next year continued, my other canine companion of twelve years, Max, passed away from liver cancer. In that same period, a very dear coaching colleague passed away from cancer and my father battled pancreatic cancer, fighting with amazing resolve.
Amidst so much loss and pain, it was easy to write the sad parts of this book. The trick was keeping alive the hope, the love, the fight, and the joy – that they all managed to hold onto – represented in my heroine, Jane. The story follows Jane’s life from childhood into adulthood – showing Jane’s triumphs, her struggles, and how she handles herself when faced with obstacles.
This book’s dedication is for those people who struggle with illness and pain, and yet never lose their optimism or their love for others.
Fifty percent of the author’s profits from the book sales of ‘What We Leave Behind’, will be split, and donated to the Ronald McDonald House charities (rmhc.org) and the ASPCA (aspca.org). In the names of my father Will, Shelly and Lauren.
There are numerous reasons I’m choosing these two charities. Anyone who appreciates the healing power of animals, will understand the ASPCA . And if the circumstances happen when long term care of a loved one is necessary – then you understand the financial burden incurred by traveling during these times. The support of family and friends becomes immeasurable during difficult times – and these amazing charities represent the ideals of the individuals this book is hoping to honor.
