Chicken Soup for the Cancer Survivor's Soul

by Jack Canfield

  Linda Blackman is president of Executive Image, Inc. She is a former national television anchor, reporter and talk show host. Today she is a sought-after professional speaker and trainer to businesses and associations. Linda uses her unique methods to show you how to enhance your image by winning every audience. Contact her at 5020 Castleman St., Pittsburgh, PA 15232, or call 412-682-2200.

  William M. Buchholz, M.D., is an oncologist and a graduate of Harvard and Stanford. William is in practice with his wife, Susan, a clinical psychologist, in Mountain View, California. He is a consultant to the Commonweal Cancer Help Program in Bolinas, California. In his oncology practice he combines conventional and complementary therapies, with an emphasis on empowering patients and their families. He has found that a little hope goes a long way.

  Diana L. Chapman has been a newspaper journalist for more than 11 years, having worked at The Los Angeles Times, The San Diego Union and Los Angeles Copley Newspapers. She specializes in touching human interest stories and, after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1993, began working on a book involving health issues. She has been married for seven years and has one son, Herbert Ryan Hart. She can be reached by calling 310-548-1192 or writing to 837 Elberon #3A, San Pedro, CA 90731.

  Dianne Clark is a business education teacher at Castleford High School in Castleford, Idaho. She lives on the family farm with her husband, Ted, and teenage sons, Russ and Nic. Dianne enjoys making various craft items and is committed to Twelve-Step Recovery. You can contact Dianne at 1000 E. 3211 N., Buhl, ID 83316, or call 208-537-6821.

  Reverend Robert Craig is a United Methodist minister. From 1980 to 1994, he was a chaplain at Methodist Medical Center in Peoria, Illinois, where he served as a surgical chaplain and worked with the open-heart team. Reverend Craig can be reached at 102 South Niles, Metamora, IL 61548.

  Janine Crawford is a bookkeeper for a real estate firm in Arcadia, California. Her first love is children; she loves creating children’s clothing and baby quilts. After graduating from high school, she attended the Institute for Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. Her artwork is now an enjoyable hobby. This is her first attempt at writing.

  Christine M. Creley is a first-grade teacher and lives with her husband, Terry, in Memphis, Tennessee. Her interests include travel, reading and aerobics. She can be reached by writing 3904 Robin Hill Dr., Bartlett, TN 38135.

  Sally deLipkau is the oncology patient representative for Washoe Medical Center and assists cancer patients and families both individually and in group settings. She provides communitywide presentations for the early detection of breast cancer as well as inspirational presentations. Sally trains volunteers and coordinates programs for the American Cancer Society and is a hospice volunteer.

  Manuel Diotte contracted cancer at the age of seven and was given six months to live. After 26 operations, two years of chemotherapy and several months of radiation treatment, Manuel overcame these seemingly insurmountable odds. He is 27 years old today and considers himself a walking miracle. Through radio and TV, Manuel has inspired countless individuals with his stories about love, hope, faith and courage. Manuel is now a professional speaker and businessman who resides in San Antonio with his wife, Heather. You can contact Manuel at 314 Cypressfox, San Antonio, TX 78245, or call 210-681-7527.

  Joanne P. Freeman is an attorney and a writer. She holds a B.A. in literature from the University of Arizona and a law degree from the University of California, Davis. She has previously published essays, film critiques and book reviews in The Los Angeles Daily News, The Los Angeles Daily Journal and The Wall Street Journal’s National Business Employment Weekly. Joanne can be reached at 2220 Miraval Tercero, Tucson, AZ 85718, or call 520-2996172.

  Howard J. Fuerst, M.D., received his medical degree from the University of Pennsylvania in 1949. He spent two years in the U.S. Air Force and then entered the practice of internal medicine in Hollywood, Florida. He retired from this practice in 1986. In 1991, he became interested in alternative medicine and today conducts a cancer support group. He has and will continue to espouse alternative medicine modalities to any forum.

  Katherine Stephens Gallagher was employed in the human resources department of Harris Methodist Hospital when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 1992. She underwent a double mastectomy with reconstruction. She dedicates a majority of her time to working with the American Cancer Society, serving on the Doris Kupferele Advisory Board at Harris Methodist Hospital and also as a Reach to Recovery volunteer. Katherine finds working with other women who face this disease to be most rewarding and gratifying. She can be reached at 7120 Serrano Dr., Fort Worth, TX 76126, or call 817-731-0526.

  Katie Gill is a senior English major at John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio, and will be graduating in May 1996. She plans to pursue a career in writing and eventually wants to write a book about what it was like having cancer at the age of 16, in order to offer hope to other teenagers with cancer. Katie can be reached at 4520 Ashbury Park Dr., North Olmstead, OH 44070, or call 216-777-7726.

  Katie Griffler is 14 years old and loves art, writing, drawing and acting. She especially loves dance and helping others. She has three brothers, two dogs and a three-legged cat. Katie says her mother is her inspiration for everything and her dad is a great guy who spoils her rotten.

  Jane Hill is a breast cancer survivor and a member of the 1995-96 National Cancer Survivors’ Speakers Bureau. A comedienne, she delivers keynote speeches and presents workshops on humor and health. She has performed nationwide for thousands of cancer survivors and healthcare professionals, and has been featured on various television programs on humor and healing. Jane also serves on the board of the Orange County chapter of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Additionally, she and her 15-year-old daughter, Kelly, helped to start the Komen Kids’ program in 1993—a friendship and support network for kids who have a parent with cancer, and now a national program sponsored by the Komen Foundation. Jane can be reached by writing 3941 South “E” Bristol St., Suite 337, Santa Ana, CA 92704 or by calling 714-546-2339.

  Sally P. Karioth, Ph.D., R.N., is a professor at Florida State University, where she teaches “Death, the Individual Family.” For more than 20 years she has been a counselor, helping people cope with the death of loved ones, particularly parents who have lost a child to death. You can contact Sally by writing Living Is Fun Enterprises, 2406 Mexia Ave., Tallahassee, FL 32304 or by calling 904-575-9394.

  Wanda Kelly, together with her late husband, Orville Kelly, founded two national organizations: Make Today Count, a grass-roots, self-help organization for persons with life-threatening illnesses; and the National Association of Atomic Veterans, to help those sickened by exposure to atomic testing. After her husband’s death in 1980, she continued their shared mission of helping others by traveling on behalf of both organizations. Wanda lives in Osage Beach, Missouri. She received her Realtor’s license and sells property in the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks for Four Seasons Shores Realty.

  Maureen Khan-Lacoss is the mother of the two most wonderful blessings in her life, Matthew and Johnathan, to whom she would like to dedicate her story for their May birthdays. Maureen says the reason for her being positive in the face of losing her leg to cancer 25 years ago is due to her mom and dad, Maureen and Duran, who are the reason she is who she is! Maureen can be reached by writing P.O. Box 212, Quaker Hill, CT 06375.

  Chris King is a human-development specialist, artist, storyteller, trainer, consultant, TV announcer, aerobics instructor, model, mathematician, salesperson, waitress, newspaper editor, writer, speaker and mother of five. Chris’ mission is to help others exercise their innate creativity in order to improve the quality of their personal and work lives. “Creativity is not only a necessity today, it is fun, energizing and rewarding!” she tells us. Chris can be reached at P.O. Box 221255, Beachwood, OH 44122, or call 216-991-8428.

  Kristine Kirsten grew up in Los Angeles and was raised by her mother. She likes to read, wri
te, play acoustic and electric guitars, and work out at the gym. Besides pursuing an acting career and writing a book about her battle with cancer, she would like to attend nursing school so that she can comfort patients the way nurses have comforted her.

  Allen Klein (a.k.a. Mr. Jollytologist) is a professional speaker and bestselling author. As a recipient of a Toastmasters award and a Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers Association, he shows audiences nationwide how to find humor in not-so-funny stuff. Allen is also the author of The Healing Power of Humor, Quotations to Cheer You Up When the World Is Getting You Down and Wing Tips. His mother is very proud of him. Allen can be reached by writing 1034 Page St., San Francisco, CA 94117 or by calling 415-431-1913.

  Paula (Bachleda) Koskey is a happy soul surviving well in Berkley, Michigan. Her main pleasures consist of her three children (currently at the “hormone hostages” stage, a.k.a. teenagers), jogging, reading and chocolate. She’s a firm believer in SRAK (Sneaky Random Acts of Kindness) and delights in thinking of devious and mischievous ways of spreading smiles. She also enjoys speaking and writing and has written a children’s book, Secrets of Christmas. Paula can be reached by writing 1173 Cambridge, Berkley, MI 48072.

  Peter Legge is the president and CEO of Canada Wide Magazines and Communications. This organization publishes 19 magazines across Canada and worth over $20 million in sales. Peter travels worldwide speaking to over 100 organizations annually. He has authored the books, How to Soar with the Eagles and You Can If You Believe You Can. Toastmasters International has honored Peter with two awards, the Golden Gavel and the Top Speaker in North America. You can reach him by writing Peter Legge Management Co. Ltd., 4th Floor, 4180 Lougheed Hwy, Burnaby, BC V5C 6A7.

  Gregory M. Lousig-Nont, Ph.D., is the president of Lousig-Nont & Associates, an 18-year-old human resource potential consulting firm. He conducts motivational seminars and his new book, Habits of Happiness: The Book That Answers the Question, If I’m So Damn Happy Why Does My Life Suck?, is scheduled for release in the summer of 1996. Gregory can be reached at 3740 Royal Crest St., Las Vegas, NV 89119, or call 1-800-477-3211.

  Cynthia Bonney Mannering, M.A.T., educates others about support for cancer patients. The compassion and care she received from professionals, friends and family during her bone marrow transplant were key to her survival. Her own story, extensive public speaking experience, and research on caregiving make her a warm and inspiring speaker/consultant. To contact her for speaking engagements, or to contribute your own suggestions for the love and care of cancer patients, write to 810 Warm Springs Ave., Boise, ID 83712 or call 208-385-9855.

  Hanoch McCarty, Ed.D., is a dynamic, entertaining and internationally known speaker, educational psychologist, and author. His motivational keynote addresses, seminars and workshops for major corporations, conventions, professional associations, schools and parent groups are noted for their high energy, great humor, participant involvement and perceptive insights. He is the author of 14 books and audio training programs, including Acts of Kindness: How to Create a Kindness Revolution and A Year of Kindness: 365 Ways to Spread Sunshine. He has been a frequent guest on radio and television programs all over the U.S. He can be reached by writing P.O. Box 66, Galt, CA 95632 or by calling 209-745-2212.

  Meladee Dawn McCarty is a dynamic speaker on topics ranging from self-esteem, deliberate kindness programs and innovative approaches to special education. She is a program specialist at the Sacramento County Office of Education. She finds placements for severely handicapped children and works extensively with their families and teachers. She is the coauthor, with Hanoch McCarty, of Acts of Kindness: How to Create a Kindness Revolution. She can be reached by writing P.O. Box 66, Galt, CA 95632 or by calling 209745-2212.

  Susan Chernak McElroy has been an animal lover all of her life. She has worked with animals for years as a veterinarian’s assistant, humane society educator, dog trainer, wildlife rehabilitator and zookeeper. McElroy’s vision is to heal the relationship between people and animals. She makes her home in Oregon at Bright Star Farm. She can be reached at NewSage Press, P.O. Box 607, Troutdale, OR 97060-0607 or fax 503-695-5406.

  Lisa McKeehan is a kindergarten teacher in La Jolla, California. She graduated from Loyola Marymount University in 1993. In 1994, she received her teaching credential and cross-cultural language and academic certificate, enabling her to teach students from a variety of diverse ethnic and language backgrounds. Lisa also received her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction, with a literacy emphasis, in December 1995. She began volunteering for Camp Ronald McDonald in 1994 and plans to continue at every opportunity.

  Peter McWilliams is the author and coauthor of several books, including How to Survive the Loss of a Love; You Can’t Afford the Luxury of a Negative Thought; How to Heal Depression; Do It! Let’s Get Off Our Butts; Life 101; Life 102: What to Do When Your Guru Sues You; and Ain’t Nobody’s Business If You Do: The Absurdity of Consensual Crime in a Free Country. Most of his books are available for free browsing on the internet at http://www.mcwilliams.com.

  Mary Lyn Miller, a communications consultant, teacher, speaker and writer, is the founder of The Career Clinic. A former corporate executive, Mary Lyn had to first heal herself. While recovering from cancer, she designed a breakthrough process for life direction which affected the lives of thousands of people who have sought to embrace their dreams and be all they are designed to be. She can be reached at 3901 Highland Ave., Suite 2, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, 310-545-8717.

  Jann Mitchell is the author of three books: Home Sweeter Home: Creating a Haven of Simplicity and Spirit,Codependent for Sure!An Original Joke book and Organized Serenity. Her popular column, “Relating,” about our relationships with ourselves and others, runs Sundays in The Oregonian in Portland and in newspapers around the country. The award-winning journalist is a sought-after speaker on self-development and simplifying one’s life. Jann can be reached by writing 7714-C SW Barnes Rd., Portland, OR 97225 or by calling 503-221-8516.

  Linda Mitchell is the mother of two of this book’s coauthors, Patty Mitchell Aubery and Nancy Mitchell. Linda was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 1995. She underwent seven weeks of radiation and a lumpectomy and today is cancer-free. Linda works full-time with her son-in-law, manufacturing golf bags. During her free time, Linda enjoys golfing, walking, reading and spending a few weeks out of the year with her husband, Terry, in Maui. Cancer taught Linda that you only live once and life should be enjoyed to the fullest. She can be reached by calling 818-368-2364.

  Marilyn Moody is currently employed by the Orange County Department of Social Services. She is single and the grandmother of three. Writing has become a major part of her life since the cancer diagnosis. Her leisure time is now being used to finish a play, Love and Laughter, about her on-line cancer group. Upon completion, it will be performed by the Teaneck New Theater in New Jersey. Marilyn can be reached by calling 714-848-0800.

  P. S. Mueller is a cartoon artist whose work has appeared in The Chicago Reader, The Austin Chronicle, Utne Reader, Harper’s Magazine and scores of other publications over the past 25 years. His cartoons are featured daily in the Green Bay Press-Gazette and are published in numerous college newspapers. Mueller lives and works in Madison, Wisconsin.

  Claire Nuer cofounded the ACC International Institute in 1989, a non-profit organization offering educational programs worldwide for those concerned by life-threatening or chronic illnesses, and for anyone who wants to improve the quality and vigor of his or her life. ACC’s activities include training programs, conferences, seminars and ongoing support in the fields of health, education, human resources and intercultural dialogue. ACC stands for Au Coeur de la Communication (At the Heart of Communication). Claire can be reached by writing ACC International Institute, P.O. Box 335, Corte Madera, CA 94976 or by calling 415-789-8802.

  Erik Olesen is a professional speaker, psychotherapist and author who helps people become more confident, rel
axed and productive. He has spoken for over 80 organizations throughout North America. Olesen’s book, Mastering the Winds of Change: Peak Performers Reveal How to Stay on Top in Times of Turmoil (HarperCollins) features a complete conditioning program for mastering the pressure of change in the 1990s and beyond. His book for children, The Little Sailboat and the Big Storm (Coming of Age Press), helps kids become more confident and optimistic. To order books, or to contact Erik Olesen, please write to 2740 Fulton, Suite 203, Sacramento, CA 95821, or call toll-free 800-STRONG-U.

  Eileen Brown O’Riley was born in Brooklyn, New York, and has overcome many obstacles, including breast cancer and surgery. Since the time of her surgery, with the help of a devoted husband and supportive, loving family, she has come through her trauma a much stronger person. She chose the subject of her mastectomy as a thesis topic when she returned to school to complete her master’s degree in education.

  Bernadette Randle is a former professional pianist and arranger and now serves as music director for the New Life Family Church. Bernadette teaches piano, tutors students in English composition and math, and is a graphic illustrator for the U.S. Army. She is a voracious reader, an inspirational speaker, and a comedic personality who currently aspires to “qualify for AARP membership.” Bernadette can be contacted at P.O. Box 1732, Maryland Heights, MO, or call 314-576-5972.

  Mary L. Rapp was born in New York. She is the oldest of 12 children which she says prepared her well for motherhood and a career in nursing—both of which she has enjoyed immensely. Mary loves dogs, collects teacups, is an avid reader and keeps a journal. She says cancer has been the greatest challenge of her life.

  Rachel Naomi Remen, M.D., is one of the pioneers of Mind/Body/Spirit medicine. She is the assistant clinical professor of family and community medicine at the UCSF School of Medicine and cofounder and medical director of the Commonweal Cancer Retreat featured on Bill Moyers’ PBS special He aling and the Mind. She has been a cancer therapist for 20 years. Her new book Kitchen Table Wisdom will be published by Riverhead in September 1996.