Hi! I'm a storyteller, a writer, a librarian, and a breast cancer survivor. My programs are full of folk tales, personal stories, and goofy, zany songs. I love to share my stories with students and families at schools, libraries and festivals.
But after surviving breast cancer I discovered a new way to use my writing and performing, a way to help everyone facing adversity and fearing the future. I found that sharing my story helps others. Those in treatment find someone else who has been there. Caregivers understand more clearly what their loved one has gone through. I've found a one-ness, a camaraderie among fellow survivors. Sometimes we just want to know we're not alone.
My dad says when you stop laughing you've given up! He's in his 80s, so I guess he should know! My faith brought me here, to this part of my life's journey. My 20+ years experience as a public speaker enables me to speak candidly and openly about my experiences and feelings as a cancer patient and survivor.
In my writing workshop, 'The Bend in Your Road,' I use my story to help others look at the traumatic events in their own lives. Together we look back at our journeys. Then we take a deep breath, and we look toward the future with courage.
I would love to talk with you about how my program might best serve your audience. I'm on the Illinois Artstour Roster so Illinois presenters can apply for a minimum 30% of me fee (800-237-6994 or www.state.il.us/agency/iac). Look at my 'Resources' page for books, web sites and articles that might be helpful to you. Watch my 'Demo' to see excerpts from my performance piece 'A Bend in the Road.' If there is any way I can help you on your journey, let me know. I do want to hear your story. And remember, there is a gift in every day for each of us.
But after surviving breast cancer I discovered a new way to use my writing and performing, a way to help everyone facing adversity and fearing the future. I found that sharing my story helps others. Those in treatment find someone else who has been there. Caregivers understand more clearly what their loved one has gone through. I've found a one-ness, a camaraderie among fellow survivors. Sometimes we just want to know we're not alone.
My dad says when you stop laughing you've given up! He's in his 80s, so I guess he should know! My faith brought me here, to this part of my life's journey. My 20+ years experience as a public speaker enables me to speak candidly and openly about my experiences and feelings as a cancer patient and survivor.
In my writing workshop, 'The Bend in Your Road,' I use my story to help others look at the traumatic events in their own lives. Together we look back at our journeys. Then we take a deep breath, and we look toward the future with courage.
I would love to talk with you about how my program might best serve your audience. I'm on the Illinois Artstour Roster so Illinois presenters can apply for a minimum 30% of me fee (800-237-6994 or www.state.il.us/agency/iac). Look at my 'Resources' page for books, web sites and articles that might be helpful to you. Watch my 'Demo' to see excerpts from my performance piece 'A Bend in the Road.' If there is any way I can help you on your journey, let me know. I do want to hear your story. And remember, there is a gift in every day for each of us.