It seems like ages ago when Reader Views asked WOW! Women On Writing to sponsor their 2007 Best Book in Women's Literature Award. Well, the wait is over! And we couldn't be happier with their choice. Congratulations goes out to Becky Bohan and Nancy Manahan, authors of Living Consciously, Dying Gracefully - A Journey with Cancer and Beyond, published by Beaver's Pond Press.When diagnosed with breast cancer, Diane Manahan decided to share her entire journey openly. A professor of nursing, married to a doctor trained in both conventional and holistic medicine, Diane integrated complementary therapies with orthodox cancer treatments. She enjoyed a full, vibrant life for the next five and a half years.
This inspiring story describes her cancer years and extraordinary death at home, the care of her body by loved ones, and the family's powerful experience at the crematorium. The book ends with a glimpse of Diane's ongoing journey as friends tell of comforting lessons offered by her enduring spirit.
Vicki Landes, of Reader Views, says, "Living Consciously, Dying Gracefully is probably the most profound book on death I've ever read. Manahan and Bohan present a beautiful story of their loved one while offering hope to others facing similar circumstances." Read the full review here.I had a chance to chat with these lovely ladies via email, and they were so wonderful and gracious. On the award: "...Diane would be thrilled, too, to have her story honored. We are sending a copy of this email to Bill Manahan, Diane's husband, who wrote the introduction to the book..."
WOW! would like to congratulate Bill as well, and wish you all a heartfelt thank you for sharing Diane's story. In sharing, we heal, and we help others to understand. You did a wonderful thing by honoring Diane's journey.
These ladies are an inspiration to women writers everywhere. To find out more about Nancy and Becky, please visit their site: www.nanbec.com and their blog, Full Life, Good Death.
Also, be sure to read this interview conducted by Reader Views to gain insight into the remarkable woman, Diane Manahan, as well as book, Living Consciously, Dying Gracefully - A Journey with Cancer and Beyond.
So, this holiday, remember to take notice, of friends and family, and cherish the time spent with loved ones.
This sounds like a wonderful book. It hit too close to home for me. I don't know what my future holds, and I try to not ponder on it. Right now all is clear, but during the last few months I've learned to ignore the nagging thoughts of cancer and death.
ReplyDeleteI don't know what tomorrow holds, but I know Who holds tomorrow.
I'm glad she was able to write about her experience and I'm glad her family followed through with the book. I wish the best for her husband and all her loved ones. A fellow writer told me I should keep a journal and someday turn it into a book. I tried, but I'm not a journal keeper.