Maureen opened the event with a warm welcome. Following her introduction of Chris and Therese, she shared her thoughts regarding UPLIFT.

"It's a special book and it grabs you right away," Maureen said. "This book isn't one that is a downer, but is an "uplifting" book. It shows how people get through this traumatic time."

Chris Foutris
Chris Foutris, a teacher and aspiring romance writer, then proceeded to share with guests how she heard about UPLIFT.

"I heard about UPLIFT through Cathie Linz, a friend and fellow member of Windy City (chapter of Romance Writers of America:  www.scribesworld.com/windycityrwa.) She notified me about the project for UPLIFT. I wrote an essay and received a letter for a release. When the book came out, they used my submission."

In addition to sharing her own experience with breast cancer, Chris read her favorite excerpts from UPLIFT. She felt the book is well organized.  Submissions are divided by subject, i.e., radiation, chemo and hair, family, support groups, etc. Submitters also share helpful hints about handling the side effects of treatment. Chris also expressed her gratitude and appreciation to her friends. She said, "I don't know what I would have done without my friends."

Therese Gunty
Therese Gunty, another contributor to UPLIFT, also shared her experience of breast cancer survival. She said of UPLIFT, "The book is so good. It even addresses the men in your life and how they reacted to it (breast cancer)."

One question that Therese said she had to face was, "How am I going to tell my six daughters?" Therese found strength in her sense of humor and the support of friends and family. She was happy to report that she had finished her last treatment in time for her 50th wedding anniversary party!

Therese encouraged guests to "get in touch with anyone who has breast cancer." She said, "The good thing about this book is that you can just pick it up." Therese also expressed her "great admiration to Barbara for taking the time and energy to put this book together."

Women of Strength
The evening passed all too quickly. Smiles, tears, and laughter created an electrical atmosphere in the front corner of the bookstore. Chris and Therese represented the courage and strength of the women and men who contributed to UPLIFT.

A fundraising raffle for a selection of donated gifts and books closed the event. Chris and Therese also autographed copies of UPLIFT. Bookplates of Barbara Delinsky's autograph were also provided.

The evening was indeed "uplifting."

A Personal Note
I encourage each of you to read UPLIFT and visit Ms. Delinsky's web-site at www.barbaradelinsky.com or  www.teamuplift.com.  There are certain books that should be made a part of our reference material on the bookshelf.  UPLIFT is one of those books!

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