| What Readers Are Saying |
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I just finished your book, Sixty Five Roses and I wanted to thank you for writing your story. I was so moved by your story since I also lost my sister three years ago to Lung Cancer. She was 39 years old and I was 36 years old. Her death was a total shock to me and my family since she never smoked and she only lived 1 month after her diagnosis. She left behind two young children. The month she was sick was devastating for me - I can't even imagine what you went through for all of those years. My parents too started a foundation to raise money for cancer research. I miss my sister so much and I struggle with my grief every day. But I agree with you - the best way to honor our sisters is to make the most of our lives. On the three year anniversary of her death, I took my kids to Disneyland. I knew she wouldn't want me to sit around and mope. I also understand the guilt of being the living sister. I too have been trying to work through all of my guilt. I have read many books about grief but none have touched my like yours. Pam was so brave and you were there for her all the way. You should be proud. Thank you for sharing. Kim S. Hello Heather, I am a mother of a 3 1/2 year old little girl, who was diagnosed with CF just a year ago this month. Through one of our chapter meetings I was told about your book, and immediately picked it up. I couldn't put it down. As a mother, unsure of what the future will hold for us or for our daughter, it was sometimes hear wrenching to read, but impossible to turn away from. I appreciated your truth in your account of what life was like for you as Pam's sister. We have a 15 month old daughter without CF, and wonder how Teresa's CF will impact Meaghan as she grows up. We are so fortunate to have a daughter born with CF now, rather then 50 years ago. But we still can't help but worry about what the future will bring. It was inspirational to see hear how a family was able to get through what you did. And it gave me strength and confidence that our family will be able to get through whatever the future holds. Thank you again for your story. Cara W. I bought your book a few months ago at the Barnes and Noble in Riverside Sq. mall... and I was lucky enough to find an autographed copy! Yay! I read it in 3 days. Thank you forever for writing it. There was so much I liked about it and so much that made it real. I felt like I was there with you and your sister, and your whole family, like I could smell the rubs and hear the physio thumps, your writing was that clear. I actually had to put your book down at a few points, I was crying and just had to stop reading. That's some powerful writing. I'm so sorry for your loss. Your sister seems like someone everyone should have the pleasure and honor to have met. I'm glad you were strong enough to share her with the rest of us. Kris A. I just finished your wonderful book! I absolutely loved it and was so moved by it. It was so beautifully written that I couldn’t put it down. I’ve recommended it to all my “reader” friends, who I am certain will love it as much as I did. Johnna D. "Sixtyfive Roses is a funny, sad, and beautiful story of a family torn apart - and held together - by crisis and faith. Heather's love note to her sister Pam is proof that doctors are good at diagnosis, but only God can know the prognosis." Dave Konig and Susan Konig I had to write and let you know how much reading your book has meant to me. My mother in law met you when you were at the Barnes and Noble bookstore last summer she kept insisting I go with her and her daughter. I told her that would be good for her to go and purchase the book this way she could learn more about CF as my son 12 yr old son (her grandson) also battles cystic fibrosis. I thought it was not necessary for me to even bother reading the book since CF is in my face 24/7 I knew it be best for mother in law to read instead. boy was I WRONG! I have come away with so much insight ...your sister Pammy has inspired me to NEVER give UP. the relationship you had with each other was so beautiful it brought me to tears. I now regret not having met you Heather as your book has blessed me tremendously...I hope you'll continue to write more books...Pam was so right and wise in saying you're to write. I suppose I'll eventually give my mother in law her book back as I don't want to part with it for now ..I keep referring back to the pages which spoke so loud and clear to my heart words of courage for my own journey with having to deal with CF and life in general. – Simone “It was not fear of death. Pam was afraid of an unused life.” How true this is. Even after my transplant, I still feel this way. So throughout the entire book, I could really relate to Pam, and I thought Cariou did an outstanding job, not only in portraying her own feelings, but also those of her sister. Having had this transplant however, it was so sad to read the book and realise that there was no hope for Pam in the end. Her only hope was a peaceful death. It was also strange reading about her death, and knowing that I was (according to my Dr) quite close to that, and yet by the grace of God, I have been spared. It feels like I have won the biggest jackpot in the world, being given a second chance at life. Sixtyfive Roses just makes you so grateful about everything that you take for granted, and it is one of the best books I have ever read. Alice V., (w/CF, post TX) I just finished this wonderful book you wrote! Thank you. I have a 9 year old niece with CF and I find this a great help in understanding what she and her family are going through. I also see how far they have come in the years since your sister was diagnosed. This is one of the most powerful books I have ever read. It is not something I would have even found on my own, but I read the New York Post and honestly I can't remember if Liz Smith or Cindy Adams recommended it- but I always buy their recommendations, and I am so glad I did! Thank you again. I am taking this book with me to Florida and I am giving it to my sister in law to read. I hope she finds as much inspiration and hope as I did. Joni B. t was amazing to read your story... I too have lost a sister (not to disease) and realize that we carry on with us some of the fine qualities of those who have left us. Congratulations on your book. I could not put it down till I finished it. Linda S. I just had to write you and tell you how much your book has taught me about inner feelings and disappointments in life. I started reading and could not put your book down. I am a few years younger than you two girls but, so much of your lives and surroundings were so familiar. It really took me back to that era that we call “the good old days”. I am very moved also because we now have a son-in-law 28 yrs old that is going through trying times. He was born with CF and diagnosed at 3yrs.old.... I look at Pammy’s pictures and read her quotes and can see she was a real fighter. Our son-in-law is the same way and I wonder how many of these feelings he and his family might have had also. His mother always says he looks at life so differently then we do. You have expressed it so well in your book and one can really relate to it. I just had to let you know there are others going through the same thing you have, only you were blessed to write it and I thank you for it. Pam has really touched my heart and I know she will touch many more. Sue Z. I loved your book, and couldn't put it down! AngieMother of 5, including Tyler, age 2 with CF As a parent of a 20 year old son with C.F, I eagerly read anything I can on C.F. Especially, people's true stories. This book touched me like no other had. It was so real! You felt like you were there with the two sisters, going through their loving but painful journey. I reread the book so many times and it stayed with me. This is book I will never lend out because I want to make sure I will always have it. I will TREASURE IT! B.M. Levy Sixtyfive Roses is a mesmerizing book. I would often read for hours, not wanting to put the book down. I think I held off on reading the last 40 pages or so, savoring it. [This is] one of those books you don’t want to end, but can’t wait to finish. Greg K I am a book lover and almost every book I read influences my life in some way or other. But once in a long time, comes a book that leaves a deep impression on me and actively contributes to my life and my personality. 'Sixtyfive Roses: A Sister's Memoir' is one such book that is sure to have an impact on every reader. This real story of a family dealing with a special need child suffering from a chronic disease is a must-read for all - whether you are in a similar situation OR NOT! Lata Tokhi, Editor, Dotcomwomen.com A loving and moving testimony to the strength of one stubborn family facing a powerful enemy. Heather Cariou deftly draws you into her family’s world of intense determination and close-knit ties with wonderful writing and a clear brave eye. And the writing has such precision and real-ness to it, that I could also feel my face turn hot and red, recalling my own family memories and our continued struggles and rivalries. The story is both romantic and tough and overall fiercely hopeful. An enlightening and inspiring read for all of us on our own hero’s journey, no matter what we are up against. Maureen F. I finished this book on the 13th anniversary of the death to my little sister to CF and I feel compelled to write to you about it. I have never read anything before that has so much mirrored my life and experiences. I too lost my only sister 13 years ago to CF. She was 10 and I was 19. I always thought I had a "normal" childhood but I now realize that I did not, there is so much that I experienced that was completely different than so many of my friends, different pressures, resentment, being scared, guilt, intense emotions and the constant feeling that my parents could not focus on me, instead always on my sister. Your book has brought out memories that I forgot I had. I laughed at the description of the mist tent and the focus of "The Treatment" in our house they were called "B.D.'s" for bronchial drainage. It consumed all of our lives for so long and now that she is gone, the memories of the disease itself have been pushed back because it was often so very ugly. I think of my sister every day and thank God for the short time I had with her. I sometimes feel cheated of a normal childhood and I know that I am still realing from the effects of that daily but live the best I can because I am lucky that I was spared. I was tested to see if I carry the CF gene and in fact I do, it has been a weight on my mind ever since finding out that news. My husband has not been tested and we aren't going to test him because we don't want to live in fear of what may come. The only thing we can do is live live and live and pray for a cure. I thank you for writing this book. I thank you for sharing your story, it must have been difficult for you. Pam must be so proud of you! You had me crying and laughing and then crying all over again. What a story and what a story-teller! Just wanted to let you know how compelling and well-written Sixtyfive Roses is. John H. Yes I finally read your amazing book. I couldn't put it down, it was so compelling, honest and poetic. After I finished the book, I missed Pam. You brought her to life so completely that I felt her loss as if she were my friend. She was an extraordinary woman. Fortunately she also had an extraordinary sister. I'm passing it on to as many people as I can. Thank you , thank you, thank you. Toni I could not put it down. What courage, what courage, what courage… You write beautifully and I found myself completely immersed in your family’s life. But what touched me more were the lessons of life, the evolution of faith and beliefs and the love… the love…Thank you for writing with such poetry and honesty. It has inspired me to turn a leaf in my life and renew my emotional ties with the children. Finding your book was a turning point in my journey… Thank you. Lise C. I've just finished reading Sixty Five Rose and it's by far, the best book I I am 32 years of age and I have battled CF since diagnosis, at 2 months old. I have a wonderful sister as well who is 2 years older then me and I'm Heather, thank you so much for sharing your story with the world. It must Carole V. My husband gave me your book for Valentine's Day. I too, as many others have said, couldn't put it down. Thank you for writing your story! Deb W. I was given this book by a friend. The mechanics of my family's life revolve around my younger daughter, whose disability has graced and challenged us for 12 years. My first thought was, "do I want to slog through someone else's journey when I'm in the middle of mine?" I am so thrilled that I trusted my friend's recommendation and opened Sixtyfive Roses! I necessarily spend precious little time reading, and I started this book at night, reluctantly put it down to sleep, put my daughter on the morning bus, and consumed the rest of the book. The following weekend, I read through it again more slowly. Your story is so crystalline, with such a lack of bitterness, that it resounded with and inspired me. As a parent, I worry about my children's sibling issues, and it is heartening to think that all of us doing the best we can will somehow get us through. I had looked for "sibling literature" before for my family, and couldn't find anything helpful. This book, while dealing with a different diagnosis and illness track from that of my family, gives a voice to all the stages of dealing with a life-altering situation. Your descriptions of interpersonal roles in your family, friends, and especially extended family really hit home with me. I know anyone dealing with dependent family care issues will really enjoy this hopeful book, and even people who aren't might be able to find a new awareness toward helping their friends who are dealing with difficulty. I bought multiple copies to share, which is a first for me. Sharon O. You've written a book that is heartbreaking and completely inspiring at the same time. Joanna Scott I have read the entire book with a lump in my throat, an ache in my heart, and yes, some tears as well. I just wanted you to know that this book has touched my soul in a way that no other book ever has. Deanna B. As one who has researched the long-term impact of serious illness and death of a sibling for 2 decades, including cystic fibrosis, I have heard many tales ofsurvival and courage, but never in such profound and moving detail. Cariou leads us through the very real day-by-day experience of a family struggling withcystic fibrosis. The story is riveting; I found myself reading through the night until dawn, unable to resist the next page. The triumph is in the sacrifice and honor of this daughter and sister to keep a promise to tell the story. Joanna Fanos, Ph.D. I am sobbing all the way through your book. It's wonderfully Libby L. You've created such a valuable testimonial of the devastation that terminal illness wreaks on a family. Sixtyfive Roses should be handed out to all families struggling with Cystic Fibrosis, perhaps to every family that walks through the doors of Sick Kids [hospital] as the emotional truths of the book resonate far beyond any specific diagnosis. Gwynyth W. I just finished reading your book and found it very uplifting. Could hardly put it down. Your family's story was told so well that I almost felt that I was there. We have two granddaughters who have Cystic Fibrosis and just to see the treatments today and how the life span of these children is improving gives us all hope that someday a cure will be found. May we see it in our lifetime. Sandy S. I must congratulate you on writing such a lovely, funny, heartbreaking story. While reading it, my emotions ran the gamut from laughter to tears and everything in between. Phyllis D. I just wanted to let you know that I recommended the book “Sixtyfive Roses” for Oprah’s Book Club. I sent it through the Oprah website, and I hope they take it seriously. Thank you for writing this wonderful story. We have a 19 year old son Christopher with CF... Thank you for allowing us into your lives. You know, nowadays it is frowned on for people with CF to be in close contact with each other, due to the knowledge of bacterial contamination. We could only guess how other families were feeling. Reading your book not only validated our lives, but also clarified for us much of what has happened within our own immediate family, circle of friends and extended families. Anne-Marie B. I just finished your book, literally five minutes ago. I set it down and came to my computer to look you up on Google and here I find the opportunity to write you a message from my heart. I have been watching my mother deal with Parkinson's Disease for the past 18 years. During that time, my family has fallen victim to the stress of watching some disappear, bit by bit, before our very eyes. I felt such relief as I read your words. The familiarity of the circumstances and the emotions surrounding the daily struggle spoke to me in a way I have yet to hear anywhere else. I want to thank you for telling your story, Pam's story, your family's story with such eloquence and heartfelt recollection. I was especially moved by the last days of her life. I have a new-found understanding of surrender and I thank you for illustrating the difference between surrender and giving up. I can see my dear sweet mother will also surrender and I hope I am loving enough to give her up and allow her the peace she deserves. My sister gave me this book as an unexpected gift - the unexpected gift came in the lessons I learned from your wonderful story. With heartfelt thanks, I quite simply couldn't put down "Sixtyfive Roses". The tale of a family struggling, coping and coming together during years of challenge was as gripping as any terrific novel. Mel R. It's been over a week now since I turned the last page of sixty-five roses and Pam is so vibrant and alive to me as her vital spirit speaks through you and (as she knew) through this glorious LOVE and LIFE affirming book. Your book was easier to read than to put down and I feel that you have given me a very precious gift that has moved me deeply to re-examine my own capacity to love. Peter V.W. Thank you so much for writing Pam's story, and yours. I have just finished reading it. The book has done a circle of readers before I got to it, through [my wife] Elizabeth, her Mother, and our daughter, Susan. Others who have seen me with it have also asked to read it, so the process continues.I am currently part of a team working on a resource for the Faith and Witness Commission of the Canadian Council of Churches. The resource will be a study in Suffering and Hope. With your permission, I want to list Sixtyfive Roses as a resource in our bibliography. The last two chapters particularly, when you are reflecting on the whole experience, speak to the work we have been doing, although the entire book does that as well. I am working on a segment that at present we are talking about the enfleshment of suffering and hope. The chapter I have written is currently titled "Under our Skin". As I rewrite this, I may actually quote some of those last two Again, thank you for writing this...it will be a source of strength and hope for Rev. Fred D. Well I finally finished your book last night. The last 40 pages were captivating. I couldn't put it down. I have to admit I had a variety of feelings throughout the book. I thank you for sharing your story, it did open my eyes to how siblings may feel, and how they may deal with cf. While I shed tears for your book, they were good tears. Not tears of defeated hope, not tears of sadness. But tears of shared understanding. Kimberley H. [I was] brought a copy of your book on Tuesday and I had read 200 pages by Wednesday evening. I was drawn into the story instantly, almost against my will, as it is so full of pain. When I put the book down, I "hugged" your family in prayer. You have an amazing way of expressing the inexpressible - over and over again I say to myself, yes, that is exactly what it would feel like - something I would never have been able to imagine, or put into words myself. Every family who has gone through or is going through this experience will feel "we are not alone". Susan G. Thank you, Heather. Sixty Five Roses is a beautifully written book, a true masterpiece. It has been inspirational and helpful to me, for we just found out that my father has Parkinson's Disease. Nancy M. Hi. I have taken my time reading your book, probably because it took you so long to write it! But, the real reason has much more to do with not wanting to rush for even a minute through your masterpiece. It is truly a masterpiece, nothing less than that. You have not spared anybody who reads your book from feeling every possible emotion, and that is all about life being lived out loud. Alan. S Thank you for sharing your touching and inspiring story. A dear friend of mine, 91 years old, could not wait to give me your book to read. I was not able to put it down. Your sincerity and raw emotions made me laugh and cry. Kim D. The one thing I asked for Christmas 2006 was your book. I could not put it down. It was wonderful. Our oldest daughter was born with Cystic Fibrosis. She died at age 17...her sister was 12 years old. When I was reading the book it was like reading our life in print. The same experiences, people, etc. I did a lot of crying and remembering. I can only say thank you. I think, even after all this time, it has helped with the healing...Thank you. Thank you. Sharon P. Only had your book a week when I finished reading it in my spare time I read it every night and early in the AM prior to staring my day's work running our bed and breakfast and dealing with guests. I stayed up until after 1 on the last night which was Friday and finished it. … I have to say I laughed and cried as I read and could relate to so many of those same feelings that you had…. Made me think about my own family and ask my self how did my children cope? …I know that this book has come from a very deep personal place in side of you; a place you were sent unwillingly as a child and place so hard to come back from. The miracle in it all is the beautiful you that came back from this hurting place with a spirit of love and sharing and a wiliness to share the lessons and love that came from this place of grief. Your gift to all of us is your ability to rise from it in giving this understanding to others that will help future generations who will be faced with these same things. … I have to wonder how many CF siblings have been in this same place never to return from it. Scared of life feeling guilty and going unnoticed in their hurt. I think your book will bring to light this aspect of CF family life that is often forgotten and hopefully help many to understand the dynamics of it all. When a child is diagnosed with CF the whole family is diagnosed I have always believed this and always will. …I believe that your story will benefit many CF Families and help them to think about their other children a little more. Faith E. Is there such a thing as a "normal" family? Heather Cariou grapples with this universal question in her life-affirming memoir, SIXTYFIVE ROSES. With poetic rhythm but unflinching honesty, Ms. Cariou tells of her sister's struggle with cystic fibrosis, and how it affected the family dynamic. I found myself completely immersed, experiencing the hope, the frustration, and above all the suspense that pervades as the family deals with this long term illness. This is a story that is far reaching, and will be recognized by any family who has dealt with terminal illness, addiction or a handicap of any kind. Does that leave anyone out? Kerrie K. Sixtyfive Roses is a heartfelt story about a family pioneering new territories both in emotional and practical ways. Writing about a sibling with an on going illness, Ms Cariou doesn’t “wax sentimental”. She instead lets us peak into a life that is frustrating and beautiful at the same time. We also get a glimpse of what it is like starting a foundation and the tenaciousness it takes to fight for those you love. This book is an invitation “to try and understand” and a promise well kept. Thank-you for sharing this story. Angela G. "I’ve just finished reading your family’s story. I found it very compelling. I did the last 150 pages in one sitting. The last book that occupied my time like that was Shogun. As I was reading I kept putting myself in the circumstances you described and wondered how I would have acted. I found it extraordinary that Pam, at 10 years of age, went through the emotional phases of death, got to acceptance and then decided to live out whatever time she had left with such passion. It came from such a profound, philosophical position. It’s hard not to be fascinated by it. I suspect the affect your book will have on people will be similar to the affect it had on me. It makes you think about life. It’s just that kind of story. I hope it’s obvious I loved the book." Alex W. I was moved to tears many times reading your book. My brother Jimmy had CF and he passed away almost 3 years ago this December 31. He was 31 when he passed away. Your book has helped me get in touch with my feelings at this time. It also helped me to feel that you experienced what I went through growing up. Esther G. I loved reading a story that was pretty much the life of our family. Great book I really didn't want to finish it. Special thanks to you Heather, for creating such a wonderful book of awareness about CF and to think that we were not the only family that had a tough life dealing with this disease. Sylvie V. � I have just finished reading Sixty Five Roses and I laughed and cried along with you and your family. Rosemary C. Sharing your story validated my own feelings of guilt of being the healthy one and failure of not being able to defend my sister from the evil disease of Scleraderma. We Shari P. I just finished reading your moving story. I read the last few chapters while I was sitting on the B.C. ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo having spent the weekend in Vancouver looking after my youngest daughter's puppy while she was in Toronto filming a new video for the CCFF. I gave up trying to hide my tears - got a few concerned looks from other passengers. I would really like to commend you for the very poignant tale of your family's trials and tribulations as you all struggled to come to terms with Pam's very serious disease. I have always admired many of the siblings of people with CF and found them to be truly compassionate and caring people. You have shared an important story and I know many families of people with CF will find it compelling, heart warming and will thank you for Chris B. I started reading it on Saturday and finished it this morning. I want to take the time to congratulate you on a beautifully written and moving memoir and to extend my personal thanks to your family for all they have done in the fight against CF. Your pain and anguish was so evident, as was the joy and laughter you shared with Pam. I have lost many friends and aquaintances to CF over the years and suffer the survior's guilt you talk of. Your book was very therapeutic and let me know that everyone feels this way at times. Again, thank you for undertaking this monumental task and honoring your sister's wishes so beautifully. Michelle T. Thank you for your book. My husband was so deeply touched by it. It was like reading about our lives. Kimberley H. I’m spending every free minute reading it. Your book is amazing. So honest. I’m so filled with emotion reading it. - Marcia J. I acquired and just finished your book and I am overwhelmed. It is very, very good and it had a profound affect on me… Your story is timeless… I am truly inspired by your work Judy F. I just want to thank you for your honesty and candidness. My Aunt lost 2 children from Cystic Fibrosis at the tender age of 18 months and 9 months in the early 1950's and it had a profound effect on our family. What I appreciated so much in your beautifully written book was your depiction of the continuous movement of the emotional rollercoaster ride of dealing with loss and how each person in your family dealt with it differently. I am so grateful you choose to write this book to give comfort to all people who experience great losses in their life. Lillias C.G. I have just finished reading Sixtyfive Roses (stayed awake until 2:00 AM) and I wanted to be in touch. We had a family of three children, two of whom were persons with Cystic Fibrosis. …I didn't know initially whether I wanted to read the book but once I started I knew, however difficult at times, I must finish. Of course, I did lots of remembering, some crying, more mourning, and yes even laughing. There was so much with which I could identify!!...So Bravo Heather, thanks for your words. Carol M. I have just finished reading your book, I have enjoyed it, beautifully written. The emotion conveyed, confirmed my beliefs. I was a Home Health Nurse for 30years. I felt I was always aware of the pain and sorrow of siblings, when one child in the family has a chronic health condition. It also impacts children greatly when a Parent is chronically ill. I would encourage Parents to tell the children’s Teachers about the family health problems, because of the possibility of acting out in class. Thanks again for putting to words you painful and wonderful journey. Jean T., R.N. Your story felt so true. You were so honest about what a chronic illness can do to the the relationships in a family. I volunteered in palliative care for 10 years and although most of those patients weren't long term chronic sufferers, it often had the same affect on family dynamics. Thank you again for writing Pam and your story and that of your family. Sue K. Thank you for your book, Sixty Five Roses... Right away I appreciated your ability to give form and words to the inner sensations we experience. ("Buttery light" might be one example) The other thing that impressed me very soon was your memory. It is exceptional, I think, and helps make the book what it is. Thanks again. I love the love expressed in your book and I'm learning about that. Hal G. I picked up your book the end of December, and was hooked just as soon as I started it! Angie I have just finished reading your book, I have enjoyed it, beautifully written. The emotion conveyed, confirmed my beliefs. I was a Home Health Nurse for 30years. I felt I was always aware of the pain and sorrow of siblings, when one child in the family has a chronic health condition. It also impacts children greatly when a Parent is chronically ill. I would encourage Parent to tell the childrens Teachers about the family health problems, because of the possibility of acting out in class. Thanks again for putting to words you painful and wonderful journey. Jean T., R.N. I just wanted to write to say how much I enjoyed your book. I hope you are proud of your accomplishment as you wove a very compelling family story. I have a sister who is 13 months younger than me (I was born in 1954 and she in 1955) and we have always been very close. I understood so well when you wrote how nobody made you laugh like Pam. My sister and I are the same. Our children will roll their eyes and say “here they go” when we are together and start to laugh about something that nobody else can see the humour in. We just have to look at each other and we start. I can’t image the heartbreak of losing her. (We did have our childhood arguments including the infamous “using a thick black permanent magic marker to draw a BIG line down the middle of the bed to mark our sides” incident which now seems very funny but indicated to our very serious mother that we were headed for a life of crime. But she could have thought that due to the fact that short thereafter there was the also infamous “shoplifting and getting caught by the store security guard” incident.)… My best wishes to you and your family. I hope you write another book. Rhonda H. I just finished reading your book and found it very uplifting. Could hardly put it down. Your family's story was told so well that I almost felt that I was there. We have two granddaughters who have Cystic Fibrosis and just to see the treatments today and how the life span of these children is improving gives us all hope that someday a cure will be found. May we see it in our lifetime. Sandy S. I just this very minute finished reading 'Sixtyfive Roses', and roused myself out of bed, knowing I could not wait one minute to write to you.
I cried!!! I read your book and I cried. There are not many books which I have read where I identified with many childhood memories. Your story was so poignant and moving for me. You see I have had Asthma from a very young age, back when they really didn't have the knowledge and drugs they have today to treat it. I have so many memories of sleepless nights hunched over the kitchen table with my pillow coughing and gasping for some air to reach my lungs. My experience with asthma is so very small compared to the suffering your sister went through, but I could feel her pain with your writings. I want to thank you so much for sharing your story....I have recommended your book to many of my friends. God Bless......Vita K. I had to write and let you know how much reading your book has meant to me. My mother in law met you when you where at the Barnes and Noble bookstore last summer she kept insisting I go with her and her daughter. I told her that would be good for her to go and purchase
the book this way she could learn more about CF as my son 12 yr old son (her grandson) also battles cystic fibrosis. I thought it was not necessary for me to even bother reading the book since CF is in my face 24/7 I knew it be best for mother in law to read instead. Boy was I WRONG! I have come away with so much insight ...your sister Pammy has inspired me to NEVER give UP.
The relationship you had with each other was so beautiful it brought me to tears. I now regret not having met you Heather as your book has blessed me tremendously...I hope you'll continue to write more books...Pam was so right and wise in saying you're to write. I keep referring back to the pages which spoke so loud and clear to my heart words of courage for my own journey with having to deal with CF and life in general.
I just finished your wonderful book! I absolutely loved it and was so moved by it. It was so beautifully written that I couldn’t put it down. I’ve recommended it to all my “reader” friends, who I am certain will love it as much as I did. Thanks for putting your amazing story out there for all of us.
Joanna D.
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