Reality Check: Copy for Book is Being Proofed / Edited

I need to keep reminding myself that it's really happening. My book "High Maintenance" is now in the proof reading stages. I have someone busy editing the copy for me and at this point, my mind is slowly beginning to ponder -- publication.

I haven't allowed myself this luxury before since I knew I needed to do the actual writing. If I thought about the "publishing" aspects before completing the manuscript, my mind would have begun wondering and not concentrating on the project itself. Thus, now I can begin thinking about publishing -- finding what route is right for me. Is there a publisher that will be interested? (I like to think so.) Can I find a rep? What about copyright law? (I do not understand legal stuff at all.) So many questions and yet, I am excited to finally be at this point. This has been a three-year long process. I feel like I'm giving "birth" and it's amazing!

If you do know a publisher, contact me. If you know anyone in the publishing business, let me know. I realize I can go the "self-publishing" route and that is certainly a possibility. However, I am very open to finding a publisher that would be interested in "High Maintenance." The individual editing my copy began reading it - and as she explained, became so "engrossed" in reading that she never "stopped" until she was finished. It was 4 a.m. when she completed the manuscript. Obviously, I was elated.

This journey began a few months after completing my play, Chemonologues. Needless to say, I am ready for the next step!

Fantastic News!

"High Maintenance .. Surviving Cancer at All Costs" is even closer to becoming a published book. I have completed the copy and I will be forwarding it onto a proofreader. After three long years, I have completed the manuscript.

At this point, I am still not sure how I will publish. There is certainly the "self-publishing" concept that I can investigate. My obvious choice would be a "big-time" publisher. So, if you know anyone (who knows anyone) at a publishing company let me know.

When I was at Temple University earning my BA degree in communications (Journalism) I barely made it through Law & Ethics of Mass Communication. My big concern is copyright laws. I had read (and re-read) information about this but I remain confused. Thus, again, if there is anyone out there who understands legal stuff (I consider it a foreign language) I would appreciate your help in this area. I would like to do everything right.

This is a huge undertaking for me. I have spent nearly three years working on this book. It began shortly after the completion of my play "Chemonologues." Once the play reading was done, my brain settled down a bit and I took about three months off from writing. But when I returned to the keyboard, I started writing copy under the heading of "getting better and stronger." The actual title came about a year later after talking with my son, Brian, and getting his approval.

I like "High Maintenance" because it is so true. I am on maintenance treatments for my cancer. I still go every 12 weeks for Zometa. I also still take an anti-estrogen every night. Thus, the maintenance aspect of the title. "High" -- well, the cost of these treatments is beyond anything I ever imagined. I have seen some "insane" invoices go past me. Maintaining a cancer-free status is not only difficult but it's expensive. So, "High Maintenance" sums it all up.

I can see the finish line. That alone is incredible. I do believe in "miracles."

Book Nearing Completion

"High Maintenance... Surviving Cancer at All Costs" is in the final stages of development and is close to the point where I am now "talking about" and "planning" for its publication. It has been nearly three years since I sat down at the computer screen and began writing about my journey. I know that many of you have been anxious to see it published. Thus, I wanted to provide this update.

I am hard at work doing intense editing and re-writing of text. I have written the end, however, I still need to re-read and decide if I am happy with the entire piece as it is, or if I still need to do some additional writing. To publish "High Maintenance" will be the culmination of a lifelong dream. Although I have spent my entire adult life as a writer and have written lengthy pieces before (including guidebooks, etc.) this particular piece is, of course, a very personal look into me and my life over the past 12 years. There are things that even I have had to sit back and say "Wait. Did this really happen?" "Did I go through this pain?" "Did I really survive this?" As I read the text, I find that I am actually learning about my journey --- having tried to forget some of the things that occurred and yet, those very things have had a profound impact upon my life and how I am now. The person I have become as a result of all that has happened. Wow! If I can bring that story to life -- then "High Maintenance" will be a bestseller.

I do apologize for not writing more often. I began this blog to communicate with all of you - to share bits and pieces of my story. I must admit I got caught up in the book over the past six months. I am now working even harder each day to bring this book to life.

Thanks for your patience and understanding. If you know of a publishing company -- if you know a publisher -- if you know a publishing rep? I have considered self-publishing but of course, I would prefer a company published book and e-book. Ultimately that is my real goal.

Reality Check -- Am I Really Getting Better & Stronger?

First, I want to thank you (my readers) for your continued support. I have not had much opportunity to write my blog. I lost total Internet connection for nearly six months. During that time, however, I focused my energy on my book, “High Maintenance.” I am very proud to say that it was time well spent. I have done a great deal of work on the book and at this point, I am nearing what I feel is the actual completion of my story. I am writing in the present and looking towards the future. I have also done a great deal of editing. I will keep all of you informed of my progress.

Meanwhile, I am thrilled to say that my health has been getting better and stronger. That has been my goal all along. As I look at where I am now compared to where I was even a couple of years ago, there has been tremendous improvements. 

My cardiologist is pleased with my test results. All areas show up as “mild.” Compare that to results from previous tests where I was dealing with “severe” areas of concern. And, I might add, that it is due in part to my regular exercise program. He keeps telling me “to continue doing what I’m doing.” I need to “keep doing that Zumba thing,” he says. 

My oncologist gave me the results of my PET scan in late November. No sign of cancer! It has been 12 years since my initial diagnosis. It has been seven years since it last metastasized. It feels great hearing those words -- “no indication of cancer.” It also feels great knowing that I am getting better with each passing day. 

A trip to the dermatologist provided further proof that all is well. While I needed to have a minor procedure done (there was this tiny spot on my right upper arm) it was nothing that caused alarm. The results were benign. My skin health was good.

I also met a new pulmonary physician. My other doctor went into retirement and referred me to this other practice. My new doctor wants to run some tests. Turns out, he believes I may no longer have certain conditions I was originally diagnosed with. I may no longer have sleep apnea, COPD or asthma. Am I jumping to conclusions? During the coming month, I will undergo some testing and after all the results are in, who knows what may happen? I could get rid of the oxygen concentrator. I may no longer need a daily inhaler. I can certainly imagine a better day ahead.

Introducing Two Cancer-Related Resources

I'm always learning about new resources that can help me and others throughout our cancer journeys. I am amazed how many organizations exist today that are dedicated to various aspects of cancer -- everything from research to financial and from providing support and if needed, grief counseling. This blog will hopefully introduce you to a couple of new resources that may help you, a family member or friend.

The first organization I recently discovered is the Animal Cancer Foundation. My daughter's mother-in-law contacted me about a tragic situation. One of her dogs became extremely ill on Thanksgiving Day. The dog was taken to an emergency vet clinic where after hours of exams and testing, five-year-old Ellie was given a blood transfusion followed by surgery to remove her pancreas. However, the news was not good. While the surgery went well, there were remaining tumors on her liver as well as one near a major blood vessel that could not be removed. Ellie still needed another blood transfusion that night. Her tumors were malignant -- the dog had terminal cancer.

The request I received was to try and find an organization or resource that could help the family with some of the financial burdens they had already faced and would be facing as a result of Ellie's diagnosis. I immediately called the American Cancer Society at its toll-free number: 1-800-ACS-2345. This number is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In turn, ACS gave me the number for the Animal Cancer Foundation. (1-877-448-3223 or www.acfoundation.org) I spoke with the organization's Executive Director, Barbara Cohen. After hearing what was needed, Barbara later emailed me a list of approximately 10 organizations that provide various resources. While each group or organization may offer specific services,  it would be necessary to read through the information given and determine if help was possible. But, at least, Ellie's family would be able to have resources to check out -- there was, at least, some hope that assistance may be offered.

In a different direction, for those who may need assistance paying medical expenses or who cannot afford items such as a wig (when undergoing chemo and losing one's hair) there is MedGift, a non-profit organization founded by Diem Brown. She was only 23-years-old when diagnosed with ovarian cancer. This reality TV personality and currently a freelance AP reporter, discovered the need for an organization that could help others with "gifts." When registering at www.medgift.com, one can ask for help with such things as hospital bills, childcare or wigs.  Besides the aforementioned items, those signing onto MedGift can also ask for more personal, non-monetary gifts such as prayers or visits. Brown calls her program "the first ever patient gift registry" and it is set up like a bridal or baby shower registry. She continues her fight with cancer, just having started chemotherapy and was a participant in this past September's Stand Up to Cancer Telethon.

As I noted above, I had direct contact with ACF and was extremely impressed with the quick turn-around my request was given. Although I have not utilized MedGift, I read about it in a recent issue of Living with Cancer and found the premise to be interesting while also offering great possibilities.

Cancer survivors and caregivers are always seeking out new resources. It is my hope that, if necessary, you will find help via one of the above groups or any other other organizations / resources listed on Marilyn's Byline.

I'm Back Online

It's been way too long. My ability to access the Internet made it impossible for me to keep up to date with my blog. Plus, I could not really stay in touch with many areas of the Internet -- accessing my FB page was a challenge since I only had my phone to use. Looking at that tiny screen has done a number on my eyes.

However, on a positive note, it allowed me plenty of time to work on my book. At this point, "High Maintenance" is coming along very well. I am writing chapters in the present .. rather than just my past experiences. I have had time to edit and rework sections and chapters, thus I feel extremely confident that the book will soon be reaching the finish line. After I know the actual book copy is completed, I will start writing all the acknowledgments and thank you messages. When I am at that point, you can be assured that getting to the next level -- determining how I want to publish, will be much easier. Needless to say, I am excited. This has been quite a journey and I cannot wait to share with all of you.

I am most grateful for every one's support and encouragement. I am not high tech and not computer savvy. My new look -- the great new banner for my blog, was created by the talented artist/graphic designer - Edward Feldman. He was recently interviewed by Bill Shafer of Growing Bolder and the blog/video Bill taped recently is now online. Check it out! Edward's latest creative endeavors are beyond amazing and I am honored that he took the time to create a new look for Marilyn's Byline.

I am busy today prepping for another PET scan. That means a day of no exercise and a totally protein-only diet.  My glucose reading this morning was 86. While that is outstanding, I do not want to reach a point where I go into a real low. Thus, I need too remain relaxed. (Obviously, hanging out by my computer should keep me both occupied and out of trouble. I won't find myself wanting to dance around or feel like taking a walk. Although, I would love to be doing both.)

I am not sure if I will be adding more chapters from my book to the blog at this time. Since I am so close to completion, I may simply wait and allow you (my readers) to see the book once it is published. I hope this makes sense and I appreciate your understanding. I want to provide you with information as well as sharing my story. But, I want to reach a logical balance as well. "High Maintenance" has been the goal all along. Since completing my play "Chemonologues" in March 2010, I have wanted to get started on a manuscript for a book. When I began writing the "words" that would become my book, it was only because of the effort I put forth during my two year play writing journey that even made this all possible. The book would never have come into existence without the play and without all the energy I put into it. There was this chronological order that had to exist in my life -- all the parts had to come together. This has finally happened. I feel whole, again.

Join me at Relay for Life of Sanford

It’s that time of year. It’s the 6th annual Relay for Life of Sanford, set to begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 30 at the Central Florida Zoo in Sanford. While many communities worldwide hosts Relays, Sanford’s unique location makes it the perfect location to enjoy a fun-filled night.

Imagine being able to take a night-time tour of the zoo for only $5 per person. Since most of the zoo’s residents are nocturnal it is a great opportunity to see these animals up close and active. Many are being fed while others are busy roaming their areas. During my first nocturnal tour several years ago, I was able to see the kangaroos hopping about their area. It was a “first time experience for me,” that is, seeing these amazing animals jump from place to place so gracefully. 

For those who enjoy adventure with a more physical touch, the zip line is open in the early evening hours for a reduced price. Guests can climb around the zip line (an abbreviated course) and test various skills high above the crowds working their way through Relay. For many, this is a wonderful opportunity to try the zip line without paying the usual fees. 

Families can enjoy the train and the younger ones can have fun in the early evening hours at the park’s splash zone. There’s a DJ on hand plus there will be live musical performances throughout the night.

Starting at 9 p.m. the lights go down and the mood turns somber. It’s time for Luminaria. This is the only time when Relayers are quiet -- spending approximately 30 minutes remembering those who have lost their cancer battle and thinking of those who continue to fight or who have been cured. Soft music and a video will highlight this special ceremony. 

Afterwards, the bright lights return and the music is now blasting from the speakers -- it’s time to crown Ms. Relay! Yes, while some very dedicated Relayers (men dressed in drag) try to collect the most amount of money from the crowds, it is also a chance to laugh and see “the humorous side of cancer.” From here, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy as a spectator or to participate in. From pie eating contests to crazy hat laps -- from trivia to a silly song fest. Anything can and does happen throughout the hours of the night. Although very few will get any sleep, some manage to climb into tents and get a couple of hours of rest. I usually stretch out onto a lounge chair, shut my eyes and listen to the music and sounds coming from all around me.  

By early morning, there is dew all around -- and the smell of fresh brewed coffee. The zoo team whips up a buffet breakfast for only $5 per person. Teams gather to refresh and regroup before preparing for the final hours and the official wrap up ceremony. 

Relay is special. But, the Sanford Relay and its “roots” at the zoo provide a special place where a good time can be enjoyed while also feeling at one with nature. It is certainly the perfect combo -- and one of the reasons I have chosen to make the Relay for Life of Sanford at the Central FL Zoo my place to Relay each year. 

This year my team, Circle of Hope, has done an extraordinary job by holding a number of fundraisers since early fall. At this time, we have raised nearly $2,500. (We expect to reach this amount the night of Relay and thus be honored as a Bronze team.) I would like to take this opportunity to acknowlege the amazing individuals who make up my team: Adrienne McIntosh, Blair Townley, Curtis Hoffman, Edward Feldman, Elaine Raymond, Gary Wattman, Glen Steinfeld, Michael Wattman and Terry Hoffman. My heartfelt thanks to all of them. I also want to thank the many locations that have allowed us to hold fundraisers this year. Sincere thanks to: Jersey Mike’s, Miller’s Ale House, Cork & Olive, Gator’s, Joe’s Crab Shack and Casey’s Grill. We have also held a Zumba for Relay at the Lake Mary YMCA and participated in two Relay wide events, a chili cook off and a yard sale. On the night of Relay, my team will be offering up homemade mac & cheese, a chance drawing Dine Around Package (with gift cards to various restaurants, a prize package worth $100s of dollars), hair extensions and basic cuts by Jackie Garcia & HCI Salon, chair massages, Bibbi’s Jewelry and accessories (jewelry, handbags, great gift ideas), Leo’s Italian Ice Factory (assorted flavors), Kathy Palva’s heartsongcookies.com and Joe’s Crab Shack. 

If you have not made your donation to the 2012 Relay for Life you can do so by visiting:

www.relayforlife.com/sanfordfl   Then, look for Team Circle of Hope or visit my site, Marilyn Wattman-Feldman. (Team Captain) 

I personally continue cancer treatments, something I must do until “the cure is found.” Let’s make this the year that your “dollar” makes the difference. From everyone who has ever heard the words “You have cancer” I say, “Thanks.”