In late December 2022, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. As a 14-year survivor, convinced “10 years” was the magic number, I was unprepared for such news. But here’s the thing. Cancer doesn’t care if you’ve had it before. It doesn’t care if have money, fame, talent, or enjoy writing books.
On February 1, 2023 I had surgery. I’m grateful to say I didn’t need chemotherapy and having had radiation before, that was also off the table.
If you’ve ever had breast cancer, you know that you will never again think of a mammogram as “routine.” But mammograms have saved my life. Twice.
Some people say cancer is a gift. I disagree. After all, it’s not like a candle you can regift. But it definitely serves as a reminder to live each day with gratitude.
Age is a privilege denied to too many. Remember that, the next time you lament getting another year older.
And now…onto some shameless self-promotion.
A FATAL AFFAIR: THE MURDER OF HELEN GRIER
The research and writing continues on A Fatal Affair: The Murder of Helen Grier. As someone relatively new to Sault Ste. Marie, I’m really enjoying learning more about the city’s history. I also appreciate the fabulous community support Amanda and I are receiving. Community partners include the Sault Ste. Marie Public Library, the Sault Museum, and the Canadian Heritage Bushplane Museum. I’m now trying to post a new social media update on Facebook every day, much of it related to our research.
If you’re on Facebook, you can find us here. We also post (though less regularly) on instagram and BlueSky.
PUBLICATION NEWS
My copies of Lunatic Fringe have finally arrived! I am so honoured to be included in this multi-author anthology by White City Press with mega thanks to Jay Hartman. Each of these crime fiction stories were inspired by a “one hit wonder.” My story was inspired by “Baby, It’s You” by Smith (1969). Take a listen: https://youtu.be/CRXJDtNe_Pw?si=8RIu0-Ih947EjuEPPS: Find the book at your favourite retailer or direct from the publisher: https://whitecitypress.com/product/lunaticfringe/
ENZO UPDATE
We celebrated ‘Gotcha Day on January 10th. It’s hard to believe this little peanut now weighs 60 pounds (and he really loves to steal my boots!).
Discover more from Judy Penz Sheluk
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
And good health and much success and happiness to you as well!
I‘ve had cancer twice too. I don‘t think it can be cured but we can keep it at bay. I wish you a ripe old age, many more writing successes and much happiness.