The past belongs to everyone who was there. What do you remember? ADD YOUR STORY
blog
Thanks to Kristina, who survived somewhat similar circumstances growing up, for writing in to share her experience of reading the book. Here’s what she has to say:
“At 16, my mother was dying from cancer, my father left, and I had to fend for myself. Fast forward 22 years, and my life shows few outward scars but instead all the markers of success: a solid education, a successful career, a loving husband and well-adjusted children. I speak of that time so rarely that even those I love most know few of the details, if only because I have no answer to their inevitable question: ‘But how did you do it?‘”
I just did it, I don’t quite remember, and you don’t really want to know the details.
Thank you for putting into words what I have not yet been able to express to others. I plan to give this book to my husband, my best friend, and any others in my life who may have doubted a child’s ability to survive and perhaps thrive despite the mess the adults around her left behind.
How sad for these kids (now adults) to not have had a clue as to what a wonderful man their Uncle John (Buzz) was. He loved his sister and he loved life. He was a professor of Astronomy who had students taking his classes just to have his presence.
He was loved by all who knew him. A kind and gentle man who never had a mean word for anyone. How his sister’s children remember him in such a vile way is astounding. He cared for his mother until the day she died–
so lovingly. Why? Because his beloved sister could not so he took over that responsibility.
He loved his beautiful wife, his work and his life. A kinder and gentler man could not have been found. What a sad story that these messed up kids never really knew their Uncle John. He always talked about them with such pride. He was so soft spoken and sweet. I am so sorry to read what they wrote about this wonderful and generous giant of a man. And so regrettable that they didn’t give him a chance…it’s obvious they never tried.
helen viola
helen viola
Hi there! I too was orphaned – my mother died when I was 10, and my father a year and a half later, both of cancer.
I loved reading your stories, and can really relate to Diana’s experiences – great job Diana!