Thursday, September 17, 2009

Confirmation

What’s Jack up to? He is so needing a bath. It’s all rainy so that’s strike #1 against that bath deal. Also I don’t have the energy so that’s strike #2. And as for strike #3 see #2.

I don’t talking about my writing all that much here, well, maybe I do I don’t know where I am on the narcissistic writer scale but today I’m talking… a bit. It’s part of the story.
There are times when life gives you signs to keep pushing forward. A confirmation of sorts.

One of my stories, book, novels whateves that I’m looking to sell is a YA (young adult) in which the heroine takes up gambling in order to save for the college of her dreams and in order to get money for her grandmother’s mounting medical bills when she shows signs of Alzheimer’s.

As a writer (well any type of artist) you put a bit of yourself out there with every submission. And yes. You know it’s all subjective and you keep that in mind but still you can’t help that twist in your gut every time you hit send and with every bit of feedback you get in return. It takes a lot to keep putting yourself out there day after day.


The other day I went to the doctor for a routine visit. Now my doctor has a lot of elderly patients that use his practice. I’m not sure why this is since he’s about 40-ish, but he does. Well, I’m in the waiting room wondering if I’ll get a flu shot, ouch (I did) when an elderly couple comes in along with a younger (about my age) woman. Now the older woman was, this is the only way I can describe it, full of piss and vinegar. She just about cracked me up walking in saying just how I felt about being there.

Lady loudly and not happy: Why do I have to come so far?
Husband: It’s not that far.
Lady: Well too far too me. They should make house calls.
Husband: Nobody makes house calls anymore. You’re not going to find that.
They both sit.
Husband: Well, you don’t have to come back for 3 months.
Lady: I’m not coming back!

I’m thinking I hear ya, Lady.

The younger woman comes up after giving their info to the front desk and stands in front of the couple. She has a gentle way and starts to talk about someone calling the lady.

Lady: He doesn’t have to call me every day!
Husband: Shhh… Please don’t be so loud.
Lady: Don’t Shhh me!
Younger woman: Mom I thought you’d just like to see how he is. He’s doing so well and loves to speak with you.
Lady looking up at the younger women: Now softly: Are you my daughter?

My heart wretches and I start to blink fast. Must keep back the tears.

Younger woman softly and with so much love: Yes, Mom I’m your daughter.



I think of my book and what the granddaughter does to get the overpriced meds for her grandmother to keep her Alzheimer’s at bay. I’m still submitting and tweaking the story. Anything to make it even better. Anything to get it out there. Health care is so important. Love is so vital. Perseverance is life.



Best,
Kwana

17 comments:

Kandy Shepherd said...

Very touching story Kwana. Keep writing, keep submitting, you will get there!

Pamela Terry and Edward said...

And just imagine if the poor lady's family could not afford health care. It's unthinkable.

Unknown said...

I love the story line. Dementia is close to me at the moment via my dad so I can only imagine the helplessness that the character in your book feels. Keep on going. It sounds like it's going to be a winner!

Formerly known as Frau said...

I can only imagine the pain a family goes through when someone you love has Dementia. Thank you for sharing that story and your story sounds wonderful good luck.

pve design said...

Kwana-
Life is so very fragile. Take a look at "Days with my Father" which is a son's journal with his Father. Take a look at the photos, they tell it all.
Keep all your emotions "open" to receive the sign's that will come to you to confirm your destiny. Soon, all your actions will be realized, with "triple fff" faith, family and friends!
Putting yourself out there no matter what is to be applauded!!
pve

kks said...

wow, powerful.....i can't think of anything worse.....but loved how the daughter handled it with such grace and calm....over and over and over i'm sure....

Kristen Painter said...

Life can be so bittersweet.

Debra said...

I watched a very good friend go through this with her Mother. It was heart-breaking. Keep at it~ it will all come to you.

Joyce said...

My dear friend, consider one book already sold! I love the storyline. This post touched deep to the core for me. sniff... The certificate when my dad passed away simply said Alzheimer’s. I am very glad the wonderful woman with this nasty disease has a wonderful husband and daughter to hold her hand. Enjoy! xoxo

annechovie said...

Wow, touching post, Kwana. My grandma has dementia and it's very sad. Keep up the great work!

Deidra said...

My FIL suffered...we all suffered...with this disease for ten years. Your story will be a blessing to many. And this post touched my heart. Thank you.

Sheryl said...

I can't even begin to imagine what here daughter was feeling when her own mom asked that question.

I will never have to go through that, both my parents passed on at any early age, however, my mother did.

Let me know when that book gets published, can't wait to get my hands on a copy.

Such a touching post.

Ellen Gerstein said...

I lived through that with my grandfather, who was dianosed with Alzheimers, and am starting to face it with my grandmother (dementia only). I give a lot of credit to the young woman. It's heartbreaking and frustrating to go through this, and to keep your patience is not the easiest thing. This story idea, like so many of your others, is great. Keep submitting, it WILL happen some day.b

Petunia Face said...

Heartbreaking and totally a sign. Keep pushing! :)

Laura @ the shorehouse. said...

I'm gettin teary eyed just reading this! We lost Mike's mom to Alzheimer's this summer, and there were quite a few of those "are you my son?" moments in the final months. So sad I dom't even have words. Poor Mike...still so sad.

Keep writing, Ms. Kwana! Shine your light. xo, Laura

Christine said...

What a touching little snippet into that family's world.

Along similar lines, I think your YA story sounds wonderful. I hope you sell it soon. I'd love to read it.

Kwana said...

I had to come back and say how much all your comments on the post touched me. Thanks so much to you all for your encouragement and for sharing.

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