As I cope with chronic pain on a daily basis I have found that writing is a wonderful outlet for frustration. Writing helps me to define what is bothering me and then I can crumple up the paper and toss it in the trash – symbolically allowing me to rid myself of the aches and stress. When I am caring for patients who have experienced trauma, are depressed, at wits end, or feeling boxed in from the symptoms they are experiencing I encourage them to journal, not for anyone else to see – but as an avenue for self enlightenment and inspiration. Writing Therapy includes poetry, storytelling, journalling, memoir, humor and narrative.
My friend and neighbor’s son has Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Their oldest daughter has taken up blogging and posting Facebook entries as a way to share her hopes and griefs. Yesterday, Writers Unite to Fight Cancer held a fund-raising Youth Writing Workshop to benefit the Adam McCain Medical Expense Fund. Three wonderful authors, Janette Rallison, Angela Morrison and Lisa Finder volunteered their time to teach attendees about writing for the teen/tween readership with fun hands-on exercises. After their presentations the Arizona Rattlers made a surprise visit. They held a mock press conference. The audience were the “journalists” and interviewed the players. Everyone seemed to enjoy the camaraderie and writing experience during this charitable cause. Several others volunteered equipment, time and service to help this cute little four-year-old boy. Writers Unite to Fight Cancer will hold a second fundraiser for Adam McCain on Tuesday June 28th. It is Creating an Illustrated Children’s Book Workshop. Thanks to A+ Book Fairs for their generosity in hosting both events.
Linda Radke president of Five Star Publications has partnered with Writers Unite to Fight Cancer in our effort to raise public awareness about cancer prevention, treatment and research. My novel SAVE THE CHILD and this blog are written with the desire to increase public knowledge of parent’s rights in choosing the medical care their children receive. Karen B. Miller is sponsoring the Cancer Poetry Project and accepting submissions for publication in her next anthology. Winners will receive a money prize as well as a donation to their cancer charity of choice.
Write, write, write your troubles away to see hope bloom another day.
It was an honor to be a part of the workshop and meet Adam and his family. Thank you, Margaret, for all you give to everyone around you.
Same to you. I admire the skill and passion you put into your writing and your presentations.
Sincerely,
Margaret