My random thoughts on covid-19 and much more..
- I don't go out anymore. Not to the grovhery store, nowhere. I'm lucky to have a nice, warm home to quarrentine in, but it gets stale after a while. I'm sure I'm not alone feeling this way.
It would be worse if it was warmer outside. It will be in the 70s soon. In April the flowers and dogwood trees will be in full bloom. The most beautiful time of the year! We can still go outside, just not in packs.
We had a new deck added to the back of the house. I can't wait to get outside and enjoy it. Rain is good in the spring but every day seems gray and gloomy, sort of like life now.
WIP SportsRadio is always fun to listen to. I call my friend, Steve Trevelise, overnights on weekends. WIP is needed more than ever now. It's a source of comfort in an uncertain world. Familar voices, both hosts and callers, add a relaxing tone. I watch a lot of news now, probably too much. I need a break from the depression. WIP gives me that.
I'm grateful that Holly and I haven't gotten sick yet. I feel sorry for people all around the world who are sick or have died. It's scary to see the refrigerated trucks in New York, lined up outside of hospitals, used as temporary morgues. It's like we see this in other countries, not here in America.
It's like waking up daily and living in an episode of the "Twilight Zone." I almost expect to see Rod Serling around every corner, smoking cigareet in hand, all dressed up in dark suit and tie.
How did this virus get so bad so fast? Social Distancing seems to be working. This is worse than 9/11. Covid-10 effects the entire globe, and it goes on and on. There is no end game to date. If we knew an end to this sickness and sheltering it would be better. But this can go on for months, maybe years?
The virus has made rock stars out of Gov. Cuomo and Dr Fauci. President Trump thinks he is a rock star but he's not. He crows about the ratings for his circus-like daily briefings press conferences. He purposely has them in the late afternoon to challenge the local news ans get maximum audiance. Poor Joe Biden is fighting for air time to get his views expressed. Trump's poll ratings are going up, only 2 points behind Biden. Trump's base believes he is doing a good job because he says so.
They choose to ignore that Trump downplayed the threat of the virus early in the year, when he referred to the virus as a "democratic hoax." We have been behind the virus from the get-go. The so-called "apex" of this disease may be in two week or four weeks. no one knows for sure.
I doubt this is the extinction of the human race. I think it's just a sign from God, saying, 'Hey there, I'm still here!"There are no weekends anymore. Every day seems the same. I'm retired, so weekends don't matter to me. But I did go out a lot, especially when the weather gets nice.
We are seeing the best and worst of humanity. People who hoard and price gauge are the worst. People who help each other, check on the elderly and care for each other are the best. Health care workers, and other essential workers are the best. Is it any solace knowing that people all ove rhte world are enduring what we are? Somewhat. But, individually, we have to endure alone.
Lonliness and wearing down emotionally are hidden issues. I feel for the elderly who are alone, separated from family. I feel for nursing home residents, who not only fear a potential death sentenc ein the virus, but are sad because they are out of touch with family and friends. They have each other ansd staff, who ar enow surrogate family.
I miss sports, especially Baseball, which should be starting up now. The real prospect of games being cancelled or postponed is real. The springtime games I looked forward to so much will not be played. I hope the summer games, especially in July with the great Mike Trout, will be okay. I try to watch classic games on TV. Sometimes it's cool to watch famous games or individual feats once again, reliving history so to speak. But, like the very same film itself, it gets old after a while.
On a personal note, I'm shopping around my book, "An Unbreakable Spirit," hoping to hook up with an agent. So far no takers. It hets deflating after a while, but rejection is part of the game. So is money.
I can always self-publish but I don't want to just yet. It only takes one agent and one publisher to believe in the story.
I promise to blog more often. It helps me too, to vent.
Tuesday, March 31, 2020
proposal- blogging
Please add to proposal, at the end of Marketing ..
I also write a daily blog called "Wheeling Around Phoenixville," which I have been writing since October 2016. I have offered free chapters for readers to check out during the writing process and I have received very favorable reaction to the story! Promoting the book on my daily blog would be essential, as readers already have a taste of my writing, and of "An Unbreakable Spirit."
I also write a daily blog called "Wheeling Around Phoenixville," which I have been writing since October 2016. I have offered free chapters for readers to check out during the writing process and I have received very favorable reaction to the story! Promoting the book on my daily blog would be essential, as readers already have a taste of my writing, and of "An Unbreakable Spirit."
Sunday, March 29, 2020
proposal changes
Competitive Analysis:
1. Finding Chika by Mitch Albom. Harper Publishing. 256 pages. Published 11/15/19.
NY Times Best Seller.
2. Angels Among Us by Jack Canfield. Chicken Soul for the Soul Publishing. 400 pages. Published 1/1/13. NY Times Best Seller.
3. Tough As They Come by Travis Mills. Convergent Books. 272 pages. Published 11/25/16. NY Times Best Seller.
4. The Promise by Rachelle Friedman. Skirt! Publishing. 229 pages. Published 5/6/14. NY Times Best Seller.
5. The Sun Still Shines by Jodi Ogill Brown. Fulfill Publishing. 256 pages. Published 11/7/15
6. Ghost Boy by Martin Pistorus. Thomas Nelson Publishing. 288 pages. Published 11/19/13. NY Times Best Seller.
7. Perfectly Imperfect by Denise Goldhammer. Amazon Publishing. 232 pages. Published 11/23/15.
8. The Unbreakable Boy by Scott Michael Levette & Susy Flory. Thomas Nelson, Inc. Publishing. Published 11/4/14.
9. Change The Moment by Michael Kiel. Amazon Publishing. 233 pages. Published 8/5/19.
10. Prognosis: A Memoir of My Brain by Sarah Vallance. Little A. Publishing. 284 pages. Published 8/1/19
11. Being Heumann by Judith Heumann. Beacon Press. 240 pages. Published 11/5/19.
Marketing Strategies:
Other than bookstores like Barnes & Noble, my story should have a strong presence on-line. Amazon.com is key. I plan to open a website to sell my book on-line. I have a major involvement on both Facebook and Twitter, which would help a great deal to promote my story.
I love to play Words with Friends, and have a regular opponent list of about 50 players. The common link is words. I've found that most of the players I interact with love to read as well. Getting out the word through Words would be of great value. tHis opens up a constant resource of new readers.
I have a really good friend who is a radio talk show host on two major stations, one in Philadelphia and the other in New Jersey. He has read my daily blog and has promoted my work in the past. I'm sure he will promote the book a great deal. Free PR, literally reaching millions of listeners.
I know other talk show hosts in my area. Getting the word out to them would lead to more marketing opportunities.
Getting on Philadelphia TV would be an option. 6 ABC does a "Localish" segment daily, so they would be great exposure for the book.
On the personal side, word of mouth is key. Luckily, my local mayor is very on board with the book. An Unbreakable Spirit would be featured at local stores. I consider Book Signings very important. Not only to sell books but to reach readers in a personal way. Meeting readers would be essecial, since the story is very personal. I want their reactions, good and bad. I know the thrill it is for me to meet an author!
1. Finding Chika by Mitch Albom. Harper Publishing. 256 pages. Published 11/15/19.
NY Times Best Seller.
2. Angels Among Us by Jack Canfield. Chicken Soul for the Soul Publishing. 400 pages. Published 1/1/13. NY Times Best Seller.
3. Tough As They Come by Travis Mills. Convergent Books. 272 pages. Published 11/25/16. NY Times Best Seller.
4. The Promise by Rachelle Friedman. Skirt! Publishing. 229 pages. Published 5/6/14. NY Times Best Seller.
5. The Sun Still Shines by Jodi Ogill Brown. Fulfill Publishing. 256 pages. Published 11/7/15
6. Ghost Boy by Martin Pistorus. Thomas Nelson Publishing. 288 pages. Published 11/19/13. NY Times Best Seller.
7. Perfectly Imperfect by Denise Goldhammer. Amazon Publishing. 232 pages. Published 11/23/15.
8. The Unbreakable Boy by Scott Michael Levette & Susy Flory. Thomas Nelson, Inc. Publishing. Published 11/4/14.
9. Change The Moment by Michael Kiel. Amazon Publishing. 233 pages. Published 8/5/19.
10. Prognosis: A Memoir of My Brain by Sarah Vallance. Little A. Publishing. 284 pages. Published 8/1/19
11. Being Heumann by Judith Heumann. Beacon Press. 240 pages. Published 11/5/19.
Marketing Strategies:
Other than bookstores like Barnes & Noble, my story should have a strong presence on-line. Amazon.com is key. I plan to open a website to sell my book on-line. I have a major involvement on both Facebook and Twitter, which would help a great deal to promote my story.
I love to play Words with Friends, and have a regular opponent list of about 50 players. The common link is words. I've found that most of the players I interact with love to read as well. Getting out the word through Words would be of great value. tHis opens up a constant resource of new readers.
I have a really good friend who is a radio talk show host on two major stations, one in Philadelphia and the other in New Jersey. He has read my daily blog and has promoted my work in the past. I'm sure he will promote the book a great deal. Free PR, literally reaching millions of listeners.
I know other talk show hosts in my area. Getting the word out to them would lead to more marketing opportunities.
Getting on Philadelphia TV would be an option. 6 ABC does a "Localish" segment daily, so they would be great exposure for the book.
On the personal side, word of mouth is key. Luckily, my local mayor is very on board with the book. An Unbreakable Spirit would be featured at local stores. I consider Book Signings very important. Not only to sell books but to reach readers in a personal way. Meeting readers would be essecial, since the story is very personal. I want their reactions, good and bad. I know the thrill it is for me to meet an author!
Saturday, March 28, 2020
book- breaking
(Place on page 1, at the very beginning after title China Baby)
Things break every day. Vases. Glasses. Phone screens. Your heart. Windows. A contract. Promises. Mirrors. World records. Dreams. The list goes on and on.
Almost everyone breaks a bone at least once in a lifetime. There are 270 bones in the human body at birth; 206 when adulthood is reached. Sooner or later you are bound to break a bone, even if it's a tiny one like your pinkie finger or little toe. Breaking a bone is a feeling almost everyone can relate to.
I break bones. Lots of them. I can't prove it but I may have broken more bones in my life then anyone else in the world, seeing how I've had so many and have lived so long. This is my story. The story of a broken body but an unbreakable spirit.
Things break every day. Vases. Glasses. Phone screens. Your heart. Windows. A contract. Promises. Mirrors. World records. Dreams. The list goes on and on.
Almost everyone breaks a bone at least once in a lifetime. There are 270 bones in the human body at birth; 206 when adulthood is reached. Sooner or later you are bound to break a bone, even if it's a tiny one like your pinkie finger or little toe. Breaking a bone is a feeling almost everyone can relate to.
I break bones. Lots of them. I can't prove it but I may have broken more bones in my life then anyone else in the world, seeing how I've had so many and have lived so long. This is my story. The story of a broken body but an unbreakable spirit.
Friday, March 27, 2020
bbok-corona
(Place on page 343, after para 2)
Like everyone else in the world, we were effected by the deadly 2020 Coronavirus outbreak. Thank God we didn't get sick. I was thinking each day of residents in nursing home everywhere, the physical illness and suffering they endured, plus the fear and anxiety they had to feel; of the health care workers, who risked their own well-being to care for the elderly and compromised; of the families and friends who could not visit, facing an uncertain fate of their most special loved ones. Even if I didn't know each personally, I still knew their stories so well and could relate to their plight in so many ways.
Like everyone else in the world, we were effected by the deadly 2020 Coronavirus outbreak. Thank God we didn't get sick. I was thinking each day of residents in nursing home everywhere, the physical illness and suffering they endured, plus the fear and anxiety they had to feel; of the health care workers, who risked their own well-being to care for the elderly and compromised; of the families and friends who could not visit, facing an uncertain fate of their most special loved ones. Even if I didn't know each personally, I still knew their stories so well and could relate to their plight in so many ways.
book-outbreak
(Place on page 207, after para 1)
One of my jobs during an outbreak was to keep families informed, especially when visiting was restricted. We would coordinate other ways to "visit"- such as telephone or window visits. Communication methods such as Skype didn't exist yet. If a resident was able to use a wheelchair we would arrange for family to locate outside of a first floor window. It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time, especially if an occasion such as a birthday occured during a quarrentine. Everyone loves hugs anytime but especially on your birthday. Frustrating when a family celebrated for so many years together and now could not. But we did the best we could to make it as best we could.
I was used to the possibility of residents getting really sick or dying, almost on a daily basis, when I worked in nursing homes. That was a tough part of the job, to say the least. But during an outbreak crisis it was dreaded but almost expected, that fatalities would happen. Leaving work every day I never knew who I might see again in the morning or not.
One of my jobs during an outbreak was to keep families informed, especially when visiting was restricted. We would coordinate other ways to "visit"- such as telephone or window visits. Communication methods such as Skype didn't exist yet. If a resident was able to use a wheelchair we would arrange for family to locate outside of a first floor window. It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time, especially if an occasion such as a birthday occured during a quarrentine. Everyone loves hugs anytime but especially on your birthday. Frustrating when a family celebrated for so many years together and now could not. But we did the best we could to make it as best we could.
I was used to the possibility of residents getting really sick or dying, almost on a daily basis, when I worked in nursing homes. That was a tough part of the job, to say the least. But during an outbreak crisis it was dreaded but almost expected, that fatalities would happen. Leaving work every day I never knew who I might see again in the morning or not.
Wednesday, March 25, 2020
book- whchair
Place on page 53, after para 4
Getting a new wheelchair was always a big deal, similar to when someone got a new car. My chairs ( I always kept a spare, just in case I had a flat) were ( and still are) my lifeline. Without a chair I'm immobile. My wheelchair goes everywhere I go. So when it's time to get a new set of wheels, it is important, at least to me.
A shiny, new wheelchair was exciting to break in. From the new and improved bearings and tires to that new chair " smell," every five years or so I looked forward to test driving and finally selecting my transportation.
Getting a new wheelchair was always a big deal, similar to when someone got a new car. My chairs ( I always kept a spare, just in case I had a flat) were ( and still are) my lifeline. Without a chair I'm immobile. My wheelchair goes everywhere I go. So when it's time to get a new set of wheels, it is important, at least to me.
A shiny, new wheelchair was exciting to break in. From the new and improved bearings and tires to that new chair " smell," every five years or so I looked forward to test driving and finally selecting my transportation.
book- tim
Place on page 342, after para 2 ( people in need..)
Old friends are supposed to last forever. Like the Kenny Rogers/ Dolly Parton songs says, "You Can't Make Old Friends." Many of my childhood pals are gone. Many are only fond memories now. But one friend who has followed me all through my life, someone who fades away and then out of the blue reappears, is Tim.
As I wrote earlier, I first met Tim when we rode the taxi dab together back and forth to grade school. I helped to take care of his mother when she was a resident at the Manor long ago. And every few years we would lose touch, phone numbers forgotten, and then, like it was meant to be, strange circumstances would reconnect us again.
The same thing happened after I was retired. I hadn't heard from Tim in a long time. Suddenly he called me during the time we were both stuck inside, quarrentined during the terrible Corona Virus outbreak. Maybe he was lonely, or bored or scared, but it was good to hear his voice again, like always. His voice and infectious laugh had not changed. Both were reassuring to hear again.
When he visited one summer afternoon after life got back to normal, we played catch-up, reminicsing about days fifty years ago when we would both kids. Now we both have massive music collections ( always a common bond). Tim met Holly again and both dogs for the first time. And he was fascinated by the wonders of our personal assistant, Alexa. Times really had changed.
We call each other once a week to stay in touch, chatting about life, memories, world events, the weather, anything that comes to mind. Every time we talk we are amazed of our survival, of being on the other side of life and better off for it. There is a certain pride that we both had the determination, persistance, strength and faith to come such a long way, still unbroken. As Tim says with his familar laugh, "I can't believe we are still here!"
It's true- you can't make an old friend like Tim. We are both older and retired. Life is good. Now I don't fracture as much and he doesn't have as many seizures as when we were kids. Now, in our later years, we are both enjoying life and taking it one day at a time. We weathered many bad storms in our lifetime and are still kicking to tell about it- always with a smile.
Old friends are supposed to last forever. Like the Kenny Rogers/ Dolly Parton songs says, "You Can't Make Old Friends." Many of my childhood pals are gone. Many are only fond memories now. But one friend who has followed me all through my life, someone who fades away and then out of the blue reappears, is Tim.
As I wrote earlier, I first met Tim when we rode the taxi dab together back and forth to grade school. I helped to take care of his mother when she was a resident at the Manor long ago. And every few years we would lose touch, phone numbers forgotten, and then, like it was meant to be, strange circumstances would reconnect us again.
The same thing happened after I was retired. I hadn't heard from Tim in a long time. Suddenly he called me during the time we were both stuck inside, quarrentined during the terrible Corona Virus outbreak. Maybe he was lonely, or bored or scared, but it was good to hear his voice again, like always. His voice and infectious laugh had not changed. Both were reassuring to hear again.
When he visited one summer afternoon after life got back to normal, we played catch-up, reminicsing about days fifty years ago when we would both kids. Now we both have massive music collections ( always a common bond). Tim met Holly again and both dogs for the first time. And he was fascinated by the wonders of our personal assistant, Alexa. Times really had changed.
We call each other once a week to stay in touch, chatting about life, memories, world events, the weather, anything that comes to mind. Every time we talk we are amazed of our survival, of being on the other side of life and better off for it. There is a certain pride that we both had the determination, persistance, strength and faith to come such a long way, still unbroken. As Tim says with his familar laugh, "I can't believe we are still here!"
It's true- you can't make an old friend like Tim. We are both older and retired. Life is good. Now I don't fracture as much and he doesn't have as many seizures as when we were kids. Now, in our later years, we are both enjoying life and taking it one day at a time. We weathered many bad storms in our lifetime and are still kicking to tell about it- always with a smile.
book- Croce
Place on page 308, after para 6, ending in "be nice to others."
In 2000 my friend Pat Croce wrote a great book titled "I Feel Great and you will too!" One of my favorite parts of the book is Pat's list of his Ten Commandments of Customer Service. Social Work is people work, daily interaction with clients, residents and families. When I read his rules on customer service I realized I had been doing every one of them since I left West Chester University so long ago. I shared them with the students because I strongly believed in Pat's message to others:
1) Always use a hearty "hello" and an equally cheery "goodbye."
2) Be on a First Name Basis ( unless someone wishes to be addressed by title or Mr./Mrs./ Miss).
3) Listen, Listen, Listen.
4) Communicate Clearly.
5) Be Neat, Clean, and Fit.
6) Be Prompt And Professional.
7) Be Positive.
8) Give compliments.
9) Have Fun.
10) Do It Now!
In 2000 my friend Pat Croce wrote a great book titled "I Feel Great and you will too!" One of my favorite parts of the book is Pat's list of his Ten Commandments of Customer Service. Social Work is people work, daily interaction with clients, residents and families. When I read his rules on customer service I realized I had been doing every one of them since I left West Chester University so long ago. I shared them with the students because I strongly believed in Pat's message to others:
1) Always use a hearty "hello" and an equally cheery "goodbye."
2) Be on a First Name Basis ( unless someone wishes to be addressed by title or Mr./Mrs./ Miss).
3) Listen, Listen, Listen.
4) Communicate Clearly.
5) Be Neat, Clean, and Fit.
6) Be Prompt And Professional.
7) Be Positive.
8) Give compliments.
9) Have Fun.
10) Do It Now!
book- nightmare
(Place on page 7, after para 5, ending in Christmas)
When I didn't fracture while awake or while asleep, I had nightmares about fractures. Often I would wake up screaming, dreaming of falling. It was a terrible feeling, knowing I was falling, knowing I would break a bone, knowing it was going to hurt, knowing what would happen after- the chaos, the ambulance ride to the hospital, the cast, the pain. I couldn't stop it. The fear was overwelming. Before I hit the ground a warm flushness would flow through my entire body. And when I hit, a leg twisted awkwardly, snapping the tibia, fibia or femur, the intense burning and agonizing pain at the fracture sight, my life would flash before my eyes each time. Oh, no..not again.
And no matter how many times I broke a bone, it always seemed surreal. Soon reality blended into my dreams. Was this another nightmare or was this real? And when I woke up each time it would be frightening to know if it was all a dream or if I really had another plaster cast wrapped around a broken leg. I could never get away from it. Broken bones haunted me incessantly during my childhood.
Even later in life, when the fractures were less frequent, the nightmares continued. When I didn't fracture, I had nightmares about fracturing. I could actually feel the pain in my dreams. I'm sure I had PDST- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder- something that was never treated. Back when I was a kid PDST wasn't taken as seriously as it is now. Maybe soldiers returning from the war were treated for stress , but not a child like me who had suffered numerous devastating events and still endured all-too-real nightmares.
When I didn't fracture while awake or while asleep, I had nightmares about fractures. Often I would wake up screaming, dreaming of falling. It was a terrible feeling, knowing I was falling, knowing I would break a bone, knowing it was going to hurt, knowing what would happen after- the chaos, the ambulance ride to the hospital, the cast, the pain. I couldn't stop it. The fear was overwelming. Before I hit the ground a warm flushness would flow through my entire body. And when I hit, a leg twisted awkwardly, snapping the tibia, fibia or femur, the intense burning and agonizing pain at the fracture sight, my life would flash before my eyes each time. Oh, no..not again.
And no matter how many times I broke a bone, it always seemed surreal. Soon reality blended into my dreams. Was this another nightmare or was this real? And when I woke up each time it would be frightening to know if it was all a dream or if I really had another plaster cast wrapped around a broken leg. I could never get away from it. Broken bones haunted me incessantly during my childhood.
Even later in life, when the fractures were less frequent, the nightmares continued. When I didn't fracture, I had nightmares about fracturing. I could actually feel the pain in my dreams. I'm sure I had PDST- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder- something that was never treated. Back when I was a kid PDST wasn't taken as seriously as it is now. Maybe soldiers returning from the war were treated for stress , but not a child like me who had suffered numerous devastating events and still endured all-too-real nightmares.
book-willie
(Place on page 91, in para 1, on line 3, after "husky guy")
a St. Bernard in human form, burly and friendly,
a St. Bernard in human form, burly and friendly,
Sunday, March 22, 2020
book- poker
Place on page 74, after para 4
He loved the famous song by the great Kenny Rogers, "The Gambler," often telling me so, and quoting the lyrics "You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em..." We used that song as our guide when we gambled together. "Know when to walk away, and when to run," when we were up big or down big at the tables. "You never count your money, when you're sitting at the table," Uncle Henry reminded me when I started stacking my chips or quarters. "There'll be time enough for countin'," he whispered, "when the dealin' is done." Like Kenny himself was playing next to me all that time.
He loved the famous song by the great Kenny Rogers, "The Gambler," often telling me so, and quoting the lyrics "You've got to know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em..." We used that song as our guide when we gambled together. "Know when to walk away, and when to run," when we were up big or down big at the tables. "You never count your money, when you're sitting at the table," Uncle Henry reminded me when I started stacking my chips or quarters. "There'll be time enough for countin'," he whispered, "when the dealin' is done." Like Kenny himself was playing next to me all that time.
Saturday, March 21, 2020
book- memories
(Place on page 287, after para 7 Often it would..)
We talked about so many memories we had shared: our old television sets that took three minutes to warm-up, the kind that had tubes in the back; how a trip to the gas station included getting your widshield washed for free: saving Green Stamps in a book, redeemed for items like toasters; how candy cigarettes were considered cool; the weekly visits from the Milk Man, the Bread Man, the Ice Man and the Potato Chip Man; telephone numbers with word prefixes ( ours was WE 3); black telephones that you had to dial; catching lightning bugs ( fireflies) in summer; and waking up early on Saturday mornings to watch cartoons.
Simpler times when life seemed slower and breezed along at a leisurely pace. Times we reflected upon and cherished. Maybe those special days were long gone with time. But the memories did bring smiles and comfort on that Sunday afternoon in early August. We knew we could never go back but that was okay. We appreciated life now, and each other, like never before.
We talked about so many memories we had shared: our old television sets that took three minutes to warm-up, the kind that had tubes in the back; how a trip to the gas station included getting your widshield washed for free: saving Green Stamps in a book, redeemed for items like toasters; how candy cigarettes were considered cool; the weekly visits from the Milk Man, the Bread Man, the Ice Man and the Potato Chip Man; telephone numbers with word prefixes ( ours was WE 3); black telephones that you had to dial; catching lightning bugs ( fireflies) in summer; and waking up early on Saturday mornings to watch cartoons.
Simpler times when life seemed slower and breezed along at a leisurely pace. Times we reflected upon and cherished. Maybe those special days were long gone with time. But the memories did bring smiles and comfort on that Sunday afternoon in early August. We knew we could never go back but that was okay. We appreciated life now, and each other, like never before.
Thursday, March 19, 2020
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, NFL
Eagles traded for former Lions CB Darius Slay. They gave up a third and fifth rounder. Better than a second, which was what Detroit was rumored to be asking for. The Birds almost had to do the deal, especially after botching the Malcolm Jenkins situation. Slay is an upgrade in the secondary.
Hopefully Philly addresses the offense soon. Where are the weapons for Carson Wentz?
There's much more to do during this off-season. The draft is still on for late April. Eagles still have eight draft picks in which to add depth and possibly trade up or down. Trading up in the first round for a stud wide receiver makes sense. Taking more than one fleet wide-out makes sense too. Henry Ruggs or CeeDee Lamb, with KJ Hamler in the second round would be great. Will the Eagles get it done?
So why is Jenkins back with New Orleans? He signed for $ 8 million with the Saints, not much more than what he was making with the Birds. Well, this smacks of defensive coorinator Jim Schwartz. Either egos were involved or Jenkins was not conforming to Schwartz' style of play. Jenkins wanted to stay in Philadelphia and the organization seemed willing to keep him, knowing what his leadership meant to the team and the fan base.
I'm surprised they weren't able to work out a deal. Guess both parties didn't want it bad enough. So now Jalan Mills moves to safety, a position he hasn't played since college.
Until the Eagles do more, in my opinion, they aren't as good of a team this morning then they were a few days ago, but Slay does help to close the gap a bit.
Hopefully Philly addresses the offense soon. Where are the weapons for Carson Wentz?
There's much more to do during this off-season. The draft is still on for late April. Eagles still have eight draft picks in which to add depth and possibly trade up or down. Trading up in the first round for a stud wide receiver makes sense. Taking more than one fleet wide-out makes sense too. Henry Ruggs or CeeDee Lamb, with KJ Hamler in the second round would be great. Will the Eagles get it done?
So why is Jenkins back with New Orleans? He signed for $ 8 million with the Saints, not much more than what he was making with the Birds. Well, this smacks of defensive coorinator Jim Schwartz. Either egos were involved or Jenkins was not conforming to Schwartz' style of play. Jenkins wanted to stay in Philadelphia and the organization seemed willing to keep him, knowing what his leadership meant to the team and the fan base.
I'm surprised they weren't able to work out a deal. Guess both parties didn't want it bad enough. So now Jalan Mills moves to safety, a position he hasn't played since college.
Until the Eagles do more, in my opinion, they aren't as good of a team this morning then they were a few days ago, but Slay does help to close the gap a bit.
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, NFL
More free agency talk..
The Eagles released safety Malcolm Jenkins yesterday. In one way, Jenkins is 32, has slowed in his coverage skills, and was willing to hold out to make more than his $7 million a year. But Jenkins is a team leader, can still play, especially on run defense ( he is like another linebacker on the field), and was the glue to the defense.
This move smacks of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. I'm not a Schwartz fan. Thus move also reminds us of brian Dawkins. It was a mistake letting Dawkins go to Denver. Is this a similar mistake? So far I'm underwelmed with the Eagles off-season. They let Jenkins go. They brought back back-up quarterback Nate Sudfeld. Even though he wasn't on the playoff roster? Plus they brought back jalen Mills. Why? He's younger but ot as good as Jenkins. They want to convert mills to safety, even though he hasn't played that position since college. The first time Mills gets burned with a touchdown pass, look out!
- The Patriots let Tom Brady walk. He promptly signed with Tampa Bay, for $30 million a year. It will be odd having Brady in the NFC. Immediately, the Bucs' Super Bowl odds ( 16-1) were better than New Englands' ( 20-1).
- Rumors are that the Texans did talk to the Eagles about star receiver D'Andre Hopkins before trading him to Arizona. Seems the Eagles thought Hopkins was "too expensive" and passed.
Hopkins is the best receiver in football. Why not get him when you have a chance? Add teo speedy wide outs in the upcoming draft, and suddenly your receiving corps is solid again.
The Eagles released safety Malcolm Jenkins yesterday. In one way, Jenkins is 32, has slowed in his coverage skills, and was willing to hold out to make more than his $7 million a year. But Jenkins is a team leader, can still play, especially on run defense ( he is like another linebacker on the field), and was the glue to the defense.
This move smacks of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. I'm not a Schwartz fan. Thus move also reminds us of brian Dawkins. It was a mistake letting Dawkins go to Denver. Is this a similar mistake? So far I'm underwelmed with the Eagles off-season. They let Jenkins go. They brought back back-up quarterback Nate Sudfeld. Even though he wasn't on the playoff roster? Plus they brought back jalen Mills. Why? He's younger but ot as good as Jenkins. They want to convert mills to safety, even though he hasn't played that position since college. The first time Mills gets burned with a touchdown pass, look out!
- The Patriots let Tom Brady walk. He promptly signed with Tampa Bay, for $30 million a year. It will be odd having Brady in the NFC. Immediately, the Bucs' Super Bowl odds ( 16-1) were better than New Englands' ( 20-1).
- Rumors are that the Texans did talk to the Eagles about star receiver D'Andre Hopkins before trading him to Arizona. Seems the Eagles thought Hopkins was "too expensive" and passed.
Hopkins is the best receiver in football. Why not get him when you have a chance? Add teo speedy wide outs in the upcoming draft, and suddenly your receiving corps is solid again.
Tuesday, March 17, 2020
PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- EAGLES, NFL
Free agency started yesterday, It was welcome sports news, as most sports are shut down because of the coronavirus crisis. Nice to talk sports....
- The Eagles signed former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Javon Hargrove. It waqs a surprise, as D-Tackle isn't a pressing need. But Hargrove is a good player. The Birds like to rotate their linemen, so Hargrove should fit in nicely.
They do need to address wide receiver and cornerback, preferrably before the draft next month. I was glad they didn't waste $17 milioon on ex-Cowboy Byron Jones, who signed for 4 years with the Dolphins. He's good but not great. Trufont is going to be released this week from Atlanta. Slay is atrade possibility with Detroit. With the draft being weak at corner, addressing the secondary in free agency will be huge.
Same with wide receiver. Excellent wide-out D'Andre Hopkins was traded from Hourston to Arizona for peanuts, while the Vikings' Stefan Diggs was dealt to Buffalo. The Biills are priming themselves for a run at new england in the fall, especially with Tom Brady gone from the Patriots ( more on this later).
I fully expect Philly to get a pair of fleet receivers in the upcoming draft, but Hopkins or Diggs would brought experiencem soeed and talent to the birds' offense, giving Carson Wentz a dependable target. Robby Anderson may be a good name to remember.
- Will Nick Foles replace Tom Brady in New England. Brady walked away from the Patriots today, leaving behind a great career and 6 Super Bowl titles. The Pats may be a perfect fit for Foles, who needs to get out of Jacksonville. New England needs a name quarterback until they can develop the next Brady. Foles is 31 and could play in New England for years.
- Looks like Dallas will keep receiver Amari Cooper. They have locked up Dak Prescott and now Cooper. I wouldn't be surprised if they try to snap another elite receiver in the draft to give Prescott another weapon.
-It looks like Cam Newton will be moving on from Carolina. The Panthers have allowed Newton and his agent to seek a trade.
- Back-up QB Nate Sudfeld will be back with the Eagles. The Birds could still sign a veteran or draft a youngster to develop, but Sudfeld looks like to be the back-up.
- The Eagles signed former Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Javon Hargrove. It waqs a surprise, as D-Tackle isn't a pressing need. But Hargrove is a good player. The Birds like to rotate their linemen, so Hargrove should fit in nicely.
They do need to address wide receiver and cornerback, preferrably before the draft next month. I was glad they didn't waste $17 milioon on ex-Cowboy Byron Jones, who signed for 4 years with the Dolphins. He's good but not great. Trufont is going to be released this week from Atlanta. Slay is atrade possibility with Detroit. With the draft being weak at corner, addressing the secondary in free agency will be huge.
Same with wide receiver. Excellent wide-out D'Andre Hopkins was traded from Hourston to Arizona for peanuts, while the Vikings' Stefan Diggs was dealt to Buffalo. The Biills are priming themselves for a run at new england in the fall, especially with Tom Brady gone from the Patriots ( more on this later).
I fully expect Philly to get a pair of fleet receivers in the upcoming draft, but Hopkins or Diggs would brought experiencem soeed and talent to the birds' offense, giving Carson Wentz a dependable target. Robby Anderson may be a good name to remember.
- Will Nick Foles replace Tom Brady in New England. Brady walked away from the Patriots today, leaving behind a great career and 6 Super Bowl titles. The Pats may be a perfect fit for Foles, who needs to get out of Jacksonville. New England needs a name quarterback until they can develop the next Brady. Foles is 31 and could play in New England for years.
- Looks like Dallas will keep receiver Amari Cooper. They have locked up Dak Prescott and now Cooper. I wouldn't be surprised if they try to snap another elite receiver in the draft to give Prescott another weapon.
-It looks like Cam Newton will be moving on from Carolina. The Panthers have allowed Newton and his agent to seek a trade.
- Back-up QB Nate Sudfeld will be back with the Eagles. The Birds could still sign a veteran or draft a youngster to develop, but Sudfeld looks like to be the back-up.
Friday, March 13, 2020
book- epidemic
Place on page 204 after para 5
Thank God we never had to deal with anything like the Coronavirus of 2020. but we did have our share of outbreaks when I worked in nursing homes.
I remember one winter when the flu ran rampid. Of course, most of our resdients were elderly and compromised, so it didn't take much to put them in jeopardy. Cases of bronchitis or pneumonia were often death sentences for those poor souls. Closing our doors, quarrenting all floors, and forbidding visitors for several weeks was common. It was heartbreaking when a loved one could not visit but the residents' safety and health had to come first.
We needed to be there every day. We soon learned the routine of washing our hands thoroughly for twenty seconds ( while singing "Happy Birthday" twice) and other sanitary measures, lessons we would continue to adhere to even after the outbreak subsided. I didn't fear getting sick as much as coming into work daily and God forbid making someone else sick. Wearing gloves and a mask while being close to the residents was commonplace.
The oddest outbreak I saw was when bedbugs were discovered in our building. Everything had to be cleaned and several residents were quarrentined. Bug-detecting dogs were brought in to sniff down rooms, residents and employees until we got a handle on the bugs. Again, part of my job was to call families and inform them of the situation, keeping them informed of the progress and well-being of their loved one.
Easing fears with calm reassurance, being totally honest, and showing empathy and compassion were keys when helping residents and families during these days and weeks of crisis. Sometimes we had to move residents quickly from one room to another. It was never easy on anyone. I could relate to adjustmant issues. But after time, residents and families felt trust and confidence that you were doing what is best for their loved one. You have to earn such trust, and it's not easy. But during times of emergency, that's when you know who is a real leader and who isn't.
Thursday, March 12, 2020
book- Nicholson
Place on page 109, after ppara. 6)
It was later in life when I fully appreciated Dr. Nicholson's greatness. CHOP named a special research and teaching activity after him. The Nicholson Visiting Professors would bring in doctors from all over the United States to work and learn at Children's Hospital. He graduated from then Harvard College in 1925. He became orthpaedic division chief in the mid-thirties. For the next three decades. he continued to grow and develop the hospital's pediatric orthopaedic program. He was a real medical pioneer in the Philadelphia region, as well as an important physican in the United States as well as around the world.
Dr. Nicholson died in 1987. But his legacy would live on. Memories of my early childhood, and everything we experienced together, would last a lifetime .I was his "Jeffrey." I would remember him, not as a source of pain and suffering, but as a healer, someone who ultimately saved my life.
It was later in life when I fully appreciated Dr. Nicholson's greatness. CHOP named a special research and teaching activity after him. The Nicholson Visiting Professors would bring in doctors from all over the United States to work and learn at Children's Hospital. He graduated from then Harvard College in 1925. He became orthpaedic division chief in the mid-thirties. For the next three decades. he continued to grow and develop the hospital's pediatric orthopaedic program. He was a real medical pioneer in the Philadelphia region, as well as an important physican in the United States as well as around the world.
Dr. Nicholson died in 1987. But his legacy would live on. Memories of my early childhood, and everything we experienced together, would last a lifetime .I was his "Jeffrey." I would remember him, not as a source of pain and suffering, but as a healer, someone who ultimately saved my life.
CORONA VIRUS
We are living in historic times. They will be talking about the Great Pandemic of 2020 for hundreds of years. For me, the COVID-19 virus hit home when last night most sports as we know them were either cancelled or postponed.
Luckily, no one close to me- Holly, my family, etc.. has gotten the virus yet. But they say it's like the calm before the storm. It's coming.
For me, since I'm now 63 and susecptible to pneumonia and bronchitis, I must be careful. We all should be careful. We must lead our lives, just use common sense for a while.
Hopefully this virus threat goes on for a few weeks before things get back to normal. But will anything ever be "normal" again after this?
Life will go on. The games, meaningless as they are in the big picture, will resume. But this threat from a deadly virus will linger. Questions arise. If the virus disappears with warm weather, will it return in the fall? Is this going to be the norm now in our world?
Maybe washing our hands and being very vigilente about it will be a positive out of this.
The NBA shut down last night, for the time being. The NHL and possible Major League Baseball will do the same. Sports is entertainment, an outlet from the reality of life. To take that away, let alone all the monitary issues that goes with it, is devastating to our society.
Life will eventually return to the world we know. We gace a few bumpy weeks. Everyone's savings are taking a hit, thanks to the rapidly falling stock markets.
Politically, President Trump hung his hat on the economy. With the stock market tanking, along with the failed government's reaction to the crisis, puts Trumps' reelection chances in jeopardy. His hope is that things are back to normal by the fall. If not, he is in trouble.
Easter and spring are just around the corner. But nothing seems to matter other than the cOVID-19 bug. It's all people are talking about. We may need a diversion. Sports may not be an opeion.
One thing that wouldn't hurt is prayer. The world is going through frightful, uncertain times. It's just an American event- we are all in this together, the entire world.
Hopefully soon I'll be able to blog again about mundane stuff like sports, music, American Idol, disability issues and other items. Until then, nothing else really matters.
Luckily, no one close to me- Holly, my family, etc.. has gotten the virus yet. But they say it's like the calm before the storm. It's coming.
For me, since I'm now 63 and susecptible to pneumonia and bronchitis, I must be careful. We all should be careful. We must lead our lives, just use common sense for a while.
Hopefully this virus threat goes on for a few weeks before things get back to normal. But will anything ever be "normal" again after this?
Life will go on. The games, meaningless as they are in the big picture, will resume. But this threat from a deadly virus will linger. Questions arise. If the virus disappears with warm weather, will it return in the fall? Is this going to be the norm now in our world?
Maybe washing our hands and being very vigilente about it will be a positive out of this.
The NBA shut down last night, for the time being. The NHL and possible Major League Baseball will do the same. Sports is entertainment, an outlet from the reality of life. To take that away, let alone all the monitary issues that goes with it, is devastating to our society.
Life will eventually return to the world we know. We gace a few bumpy weeks. Everyone's savings are taking a hit, thanks to the rapidly falling stock markets.
Politically, President Trump hung his hat on the economy. With the stock market tanking, along with the failed government's reaction to the crisis, puts Trumps' reelection chances in jeopardy. His hope is that things are back to normal by the fall. If not, he is in trouble.
Easter and spring are just around the corner. But nothing seems to matter other than the cOVID-19 bug. It's all people are talking about. We may need a diversion. Sports may not be an opeion.
One thing that wouldn't hurt is prayer. The world is going through frightful, uncertain times. It's just an American event- we are all in this together, the entire world.
Hopefully soon I'll be able to blog again about mundane stuff like sports, music, American Idol, disability issues and other items. Until then, nothing else really matters.
Wednesday, March 11, 2020
Book Proposal
Proposal for:
AN UNBREAKABLE SPIRIT
By Gregory Smith
1. One-page sell sheet-
An Unbreakable Spirit
Inspirational Autobiography
132,383 words
Tagline: An Unbreakable Spirit- My Life With Brittle Bones. "I may break bones, but broken bones cannot break me."
Back book cover paragraph:
An Unbreakable Spirit is the life story o Gregory Smith, one of the oldest survivors of Osteogenisus Imperfecti, a rare bone condition. Greg endured hundreds of broken bones as a child. His inspirational story details how he coped with his disablitiy as a child all the way to adulthood and beyond. Despite the numerous challenges and limitations, Greg became a social worker and devoted his life to helping others in need. An Unbreakable Spirit tells of one extraordinary person overcoming countless fractures with determination and motivation to reach his goals. It is a story that will make you laugh, cry and feel. It is a story with great heart, a story of a lifetime, a story of broken bones, broken dreams, but an unbreakable spirit.
Abbreviated bio ( author photo forthcoming).
Gregory Smith is a retired social worker, with thirty years of experience in health care facilities. Greg penned a newspaper column called Wheeling Around Phoenixville, and currently writes a daily blog about disability issues and sports. This is his first book. Greg lives in Phoenixville, Pa with his girlfriend Holly, and their two canine friends, Bud and Katie.
2. Biographical Sketch
Qualifications: I'm one of the oldest survivors of OI. I've had brittle bones all my life and have spent many of those years cruising through life in a wheelchair. Iam on Facebook and Twitter (#WheelinGreg).
3. Description of the book.
My story begins as a baby with the onset of brittle bones. That is when the fractures were so frequent, even the doctors lost count. A big part of my early years deals features my loving parents, family and friends, and the assorted heroes who helped me smile and gave me much-needed things to look forward to. My unique school years, first in a school for kids with special needs, then later at home, using an intercom system hooked up to class, are related. So is the special relationships I begin to grow, some fleeting while others last a lifetime.
All the while the focus of my brittle bone condition is always there, in everything I do. My college years, earning a degree in social work; helping others in need, primariliy in nursing home and hopsital settings;even finding love in relationships that, in the end, were not meant to be. My heart breaks just as easily as my bones do.
There is a special bond between a special needs child and a mother. One of the most heartbreaking parts of the book is when my mom needs nursing home care- in the very facilty where I work- to her sudden illness and death, of which I am the only one present to witness her last breath.
And yet hope abounds as life goes on. I finally find true love near the end of my story. I find peace in my heart after a lifetime of pain. And although the future is cloudy, unchartered territory with a rare disease that has no sure, I cherish and appreciate my golden years with humor, love and comfort in my heart and soul.
Along my Forrest Gump-like journey I meet many characters, both famous and ordinary, all special to me and my story. I share my personal insights about life as a person with a disability, both in the past sixty years up to today. And I comment on everyday and unique situations I have faced in my life, as common as being stared at in public to the frustration of a world full of inaccessibility.
The end is full of hope and wraps up my philosophy on life- I wouldn't have done it any other way.
Many personal photos are included in the book, painting vivid colors of my experiences.For example,t the reader will not only read about the early fractures but will also see yours truly as a child in casts.
Purpose:
Shedding light on such a rare genetic affliction such as Osteogenisus Imperfeci is a big reason why I wrote this story. Hopefully the next generation will become more aware of brittle bones and OI. Also, I hope my story shows that, even in a wheelchair, with a disability, one can succeed and live a rich, fulfilled life. Never giving up and always having hope are keys.
Audience:
I believe my story is for everyone. People with a disability will relate; able-bodied people will become enlightened; health care workers will read about familar situations they face on a daily basis, especially social workers; and I think most readers will identify with family situations, and those who share a common bond- like a mother and her special needs child- will be touched by the love of such a link.
My book is unique on that it is very hard to find a first-person account of what it is like to have OI. There are plenty of medical journals and websites about brittle bones, as far as treatment is concerned. But my story may be one of the first to talk about what it feels like to constatly break bones, both physically and emotionally.
Chapter outline:
1. China Baby- The hard early years when OI first came into my life.
2. Heroes- The special people in my life who helped me survive those early years.
3. Timmy and The Box- I begin attending special needs schools, and meet others with disabilities, man of whom make lasting impressions on my life. My unique high school days using The Box.
4 .Praying for a Miracle- Our trip to Lourdes, Frace, searching for a mircle.
5. Pins- The surgical times when the doctors inserted stainless steel pins in my legs to keep them strong, only to see my body reject them each time.
6. Making Waves- Starting college-level classes, my life on C.B. Radio, finding my first real girlfriend, and reaching out to the world for the first time.
7. Tough Times Make You Stronger- The frustration of failing in school and being trapped in my disability. Plus I lose my father and the hardships it brings.
8. We All Have An Uncle Henry- Vivid portayal of my Uncle Henry, who became like my second father, and how he helped me to become more independ in life.
9. Cards and Cigars- My first experiences volunteering in a nursing home and about John, my first resdient that I grew close.
10. Going For It- Returning to school, a second chance at respect and independence, as I take the first difficult steps to becoming a social worker.For the very first time in my life, at age 28, being in an actual classroom with other students.
11. I Made It Through The Rain- The special relationship with singer Barry Manilow, how he touched my life, and the special pen pal I met from his fan club.
12. Breaking Down Barriers- Facing discrimination for the first time. Doing things no one imagined. Not satisfied with the stereotypical "disabled" individual.
13. One Sweet Summer- When my pen pal from Norway spends the entire with my family- and the first time I fall in love.
14. Don't Ever Lose your Sense of Humor- Graduating from college and doing my internships at the local hospital and nursing home- where I first starting volunteering.
15. Barry's Buns- Further asserting my indepence, as I spend a fun and eventful night camping out with friends, waiting to meet Barry Manilow in person.
16. Social Worker- My initial exp[eriences with the title of social worker.
17. My First Real Job- At age 32, I start my first full-time job at a local clinic. I meet an old friend by surprise, witness a knife-fight in our lobby, and experience the dangers- as well as the education- of working in a city.
18. Three Wishes- The magical day meeting Barry Manilow with my pen pal.Finding out celebrities- and life- isn't always what it seems.
19. Breakable Heart- A surprising, emotional chapter where i learn my heart can break as easily as my bones.
20. My Dream Job- I begin wrking where it all started, and my special relationships with the residents I love.
21. Teddy- The one resident I will never forget, and how he changed my world and made me a better person.
22. Happy Birthday Mom-Helping my mom through heart surgery and celebrating a landmark birthday with her.
23. Rocky- To my surprise, I suddenly need to deal with another emergency medical condition, one which I never was aware of until one fateful day.
24. New Paths to Follow- After nearly ten years I am forced to leave the work I love, only to find a new calling.
25. Another Bad Break- OI rudely reminds me it is still in my life as I suffer a devastating fracture in my forties. Suddenly. it is like my childhood again, as I relearn to cope with a cast, rehabilitation and pain.
26. Coming Home- My mom enters a nursing home- the same facility where I work. Her goal is to come home, but will she?
27. It's Okay to Let Go-Mom suffers a stroke and I'm the only one there when she draws her final breath- the special bond of a mother and her special needs child.Our beloved dog, Louie, dies only days after her.
28. From Now On Your Name is Bud-Life without mom and Louie. I find Bud, a rescue pup who helps to save my life.
29. Is There Someone Special Out There?- Looking for love and finding it- over the internet. Finding Holly, the true love of my life.
30. Life Returns To Dianna Drive- Holly breaths life back into my life. I have a reason to go on.
31. You'll Be Okay- Holly finds out she has a brain tumor. How she overcomes the tumor and all that goes with it.
32. It's Been A Great Life- My retirement years, with Holly, with so much to still look forward to.
33. New Beginnings- I now have a corp of new, young doctors as I face a new challenge with my OI.
34. The Hard Way Every Time- A recap of my life, and a special song which defines me.
Competitive analysis:
Honestly, I haven't read anything similar to my story. It's a little of everything. It is a very leasurely tale, told in a way in which the reader and I have a nice chat.
Marketing strategies:
Hopefully my story will be on the internet, like Amazon.com, but also in bookstores, like barnes & Nble. With social media so easily accessed now, the possibilities are endless, from Facebook to Twitter for promotion. Althoguh travel is a challenge, I would be open to book tours, appearances ( especially on the East Coast), and numerous book signings.
Not only would I wish to promote and sell my book, I feel it's important for readers to meet me too. Since they will get to know me in my very personal story, actually meeting in person will be important.
With so many people wiuth disabilities in the news, on television and in the movies and media, it would be only natural for my story to be accepted and enjoyed. now is the time!
History of the manuscript;
I have not submitted my book to a publisher. I wish to find the right home for my story with a caring agent, who will also love what I have done and be willing to share it with others. My agent will know best where my story belongs, finding it the right home it needs.
Same chapters:
I am sending the introduction, the first chapter, as requested, and chapters two, 27, and 34.
Thank you!
AN UNBREAKABLE SPIRIT
By Gregory Smith
1. One-page sell sheet-
An Unbreakable Spirit
Inspirational Autobiography
132,383 words
Tagline: An Unbreakable Spirit- My Life With Brittle Bones. "I may break bones, but broken bones cannot break me."
Back book cover paragraph:
An Unbreakable Spirit is the life story o Gregory Smith, one of the oldest survivors of Osteogenisus Imperfecti, a rare bone condition. Greg endured hundreds of broken bones as a child. His inspirational story details how he coped with his disablitiy as a child all the way to adulthood and beyond. Despite the numerous challenges and limitations, Greg became a social worker and devoted his life to helping others in need. An Unbreakable Spirit tells of one extraordinary person overcoming countless fractures with determination and motivation to reach his goals. It is a story that will make you laugh, cry and feel. It is a story with great heart, a story of a lifetime, a story of broken bones, broken dreams, but an unbreakable spirit.
Abbreviated bio ( author photo forthcoming).
Gregory Smith is a retired social worker, with thirty years of experience in health care facilities. Greg penned a newspaper column called Wheeling Around Phoenixville, and currently writes a daily blog about disability issues and sports. This is his first book. Greg lives in Phoenixville, Pa with his girlfriend Holly, and their two canine friends, Bud and Katie.
2. Biographical Sketch
Qualifications: I'm one of the oldest survivors of OI. I've had brittle bones all my life and have spent many of those years cruising through life in a wheelchair. Iam on Facebook and Twitter (#WheelinGreg).
3. Description of the book.
My story begins as a baby with the onset of brittle bones. That is when the fractures were so frequent, even the doctors lost count. A big part of my early years deals features my loving parents, family and friends, and the assorted heroes who helped me smile and gave me much-needed things to look forward to. My unique school years, first in a school for kids with special needs, then later at home, using an intercom system hooked up to class, are related. So is the special relationships I begin to grow, some fleeting while others last a lifetime.
All the while the focus of my brittle bone condition is always there, in everything I do. My college years, earning a degree in social work; helping others in need, primariliy in nursing home and hopsital settings;even finding love in relationships that, in the end, were not meant to be. My heart breaks just as easily as my bones do.
There is a special bond between a special needs child and a mother. One of the most heartbreaking parts of the book is when my mom needs nursing home care- in the very facilty where I work- to her sudden illness and death, of which I am the only one present to witness her last breath.
And yet hope abounds as life goes on. I finally find true love near the end of my story. I find peace in my heart after a lifetime of pain. And although the future is cloudy, unchartered territory with a rare disease that has no sure, I cherish and appreciate my golden years with humor, love and comfort in my heart and soul.
Along my Forrest Gump-like journey I meet many characters, both famous and ordinary, all special to me and my story. I share my personal insights about life as a person with a disability, both in the past sixty years up to today. And I comment on everyday and unique situations I have faced in my life, as common as being stared at in public to the frustration of a world full of inaccessibility.
The end is full of hope and wraps up my philosophy on life- I wouldn't have done it any other way.
Many personal photos are included in the book, painting vivid colors of my experiences.For example,t the reader will not only read about the early fractures but will also see yours truly as a child in casts.
Purpose:
Shedding light on such a rare genetic affliction such as Osteogenisus Imperfeci is a big reason why I wrote this story. Hopefully the next generation will become more aware of brittle bones and OI. Also, I hope my story shows that, even in a wheelchair, with a disability, one can succeed and live a rich, fulfilled life. Never giving up and always having hope are keys.
Audience:
I believe my story is for everyone. People with a disability will relate; able-bodied people will become enlightened; health care workers will read about familar situations they face on a daily basis, especially social workers; and I think most readers will identify with family situations, and those who share a common bond- like a mother and her special needs child- will be touched by the love of such a link.
My book is unique on that it is very hard to find a first-person account of what it is like to have OI. There are plenty of medical journals and websites about brittle bones, as far as treatment is concerned. But my story may be one of the first to talk about what it feels like to constatly break bones, both physically and emotionally.
Chapter outline:
1. China Baby- The hard early years when OI first came into my life.
2. Heroes- The special people in my life who helped me survive those early years.
3. Timmy and The Box- I begin attending special needs schools, and meet others with disabilities, man of whom make lasting impressions on my life. My unique high school days using The Box.
4 .Praying for a Miracle- Our trip to Lourdes, Frace, searching for a mircle.
5. Pins- The surgical times when the doctors inserted stainless steel pins in my legs to keep them strong, only to see my body reject them each time.
6. Making Waves- Starting college-level classes, my life on C.B. Radio, finding my first real girlfriend, and reaching out to the world for the first time.
7. Tough Times Make You Stronger- The frustration of failing in school and being trapped in my disability. Plus I lose my father and the hardships it brings.
8. We All Have An Uncle Henry- Vivid portayal of my Uncle Henry, who became like my second father, and how he helped me to become more independ in life.
9. Cards and Cigars- My first experiences volunteering in a nursing home and about John, my first resdient that I grew close.
10. Going For It- Returning to school, a second chance at respect and independence, as I take the first difficult steps to becoming a social worker.For the very first time in my life, at age 28, being in an actual classroom with other students.
11. I Made It Through The Rain- The special relationship with singer Barry Manilow, how he touched my life, and the special pen pal I met from his fan club.
12. Breaking Down Barriers- Facing discrimination for the first time. Doing things no one imagined. Not satisfied with the stereotypical "disabled" individual.
13. One Sweet Summer- When my pen pal from Norway spends the entire with my family- and the first time I fall in love.
14. Don't Ever Lose your Sense of Humor- Graduating from college and doing my internships at the local hospital and nursing home- where I first starting volunteering.
15. Barry's Buns- Further asserting my indepence, as I spend a fun and eventful night camping out with friends, waiting to meet Barry Manilow in person.
16. Social Worker- My initial exp[eriences with the title of social worker.
17. My First Real Job- At age 32, I start my first full-time job at a local clinic. I meet an old friend by surprise, witness a knife-fight in our lobby, and experience the dangers- as well as the education- of working in a city.
18. Three Wishes- The magical day meeting Barry Manilow with my pen pal.Finding out celebrities- and life- isn't always what it seems.
19. Breakable Heart- A surprising, emotional chapter where i learn my heart can break as easily as my bones.
20. My Dream Job- I begin wrking where it all started, and my special relationships with the residents I love.
21. Teddy- The one resident I will never forget, and how he changed my world and made me a better person.
22. Happy Birthday Mom-Helping my mom through heart surgery and celebrating a landmark birthday with her.
23. Rocky- To my surprise, I suddenly need to deal with another emergency medical condition, one which I never was aware of until one fateful day.
24. New Paths to Follow- After nearly ten years I am forced to leave the work I love, only to find a new calling.
25. Another Bad Break- OI rudely reminds me it is still in my life as I suffer a devastating fracture in my forties. Suddenly. it is like my childhood again, as I relearn to cope with a cast, rehabilitation and pain.
26. Coming Home- My mom enters a nursing home- the same facility where I work. Her goal is to come home, but will she?
27. It's Okay to Let Go-Mom suffers a stroke and I'm the only one there when she draws her final breath- the special bond of a mother and her special needs child.Our beloved dog, Louie, dies only days after her.
28. From Now On Your Name is Bud-Life without mom and Louie. I find Bud, a rescue pup who helps to save my life.
29. Is There Someone Special Out There?- Looking for love and finding it- over the internet. Finding Holly, the true love of my life.
30. Life Returns To Dianna Drive- Holly breaths life back into my life. I have a reason to go on.
31. You'll Be Okay- Holly finds out she has a brain tumor. How she overcomes the tumor and all that goes with it.
32. It's Been A Great Life- My retirement years, with Holly, with so much to still look forward to.
33. New Beginnings- I now have a corp of new, young doctors as I face a new challenge with my OI.
34. The Hard Way Every Time- A recap of my life, and a special song which defines me.
Competitive analysis:
Honestly, I haven't read anything similar to my story. It's a little of everything. It is a very leasurely tale, told in a way in which the reader and I have a nice chat.
Marketing strategies:
Hopefully my story will be on the internet, like Amazon.com, but also in bookstores, like barnes & Nble. With social media so easily accessed now, the possibilities are endless, from Facebook to Twitter for promotion. Althoguh travel is a challenge, I would be open to book tours, appearances ( especially on the East Coast), and numerous book signings.
Not only would I wish to promote and sell my book, I feel it's important for readers to meet me too. Since they will get to know me in my very personal story, actually meeting in person will be important.
With so many people wiuth disabilities in the news, on television and in the movies and media, it would be only natural for my story to be accepted and enjoyed. now is the time!
History of the manuscript;
I have not submitted my book to a publisher. I wish to find the right home for my story with a caring agent, who will also love what I have done and be willing to share it with others. My agent will know best where my story belongs, finding it the right home it needs.
Same chapters:
I am sending the introduction, the first chapter, as requested, and chapters two, 27, and 34.
Thank you!
Saturday, March 7, 2020
REVIEW- PETER & JEREMY AT SELLERSVILLE THEATER
I recently had the pleasure to see Peter Asher and Jeremy Clyde in concert at the Sellersville Theater. Peter was part of the 60s duo Peter and Gordon, while Jeremy was also part of a 60s duo called Chad and Jeremy. Both duos were icons. Bordon is retired from music while chad passed away a few years ago. Peter and Jeremy joined forces and have put together a fascinating two hours of great music, riveting video and photos, and interesting, fond memories.
Both were extremely funny, entertaining and likeable. The evening started with an appreciation of legendary Buddy Holly. The first song was "It Doesn't Matter Anymore." Asher revealed he admired Holly so much that he decided to wear thick glasses, in honor of the late singer.
Along with stories about their own songs, including "Yesterday's Gone," "Willow Weep For Me," and "I Go To Pieces," they did refreshing takes on cover songs during their two sets ( there was an extremely brief fifteen minute intermission). After discussing the 60s singer Marianne Faithful, who had an affair with Rolling Stone Mick Jagger, they did a nice version of "As Tears Go By" ( the first song writter by Jagger and fellow Stone Keith Richards).
Asher built a tremendous, Grammy Award-winning career as a music producer and manager, associated with such star artists like James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt and Diana Ross. Taylor was mentioned quite often. Asher talked about how he and Taylor found the classic Carole King penned song "You've Got A Friend," which was their encore at Sellersville.
Perhaps the best memories were those of The Beatles, especially Paul McCartney. Asher shared a fascinating story of the # 1 Peter and Gordon hit, "World Without Love," which was written by McCartney. Paul lived with the Asher family for two years, while he dated Peter's beautiful red-haired sister Jane. Paul gave the song to Peter, saying that "John (Lennon) didn't care for the song." The song wasn't finished, so Paul retreated to his bedroom and finished 'World Without Love" in a mere eight minutes!
Classic songs like "A Summer Song" and "World Without Love" ended the second set. The sold-out crowd was on it's feet. The ovation was well-deserved as the new duo pf Peter and Jeremy gave their fans an evening full of great songs and fun stories. To top it off, both met with fans after the show in the lobby, Asher signing copies of his recent book about The Beatles, and Clyde signing cds of his solo recordings.
Both were extremely funny, entertaining and likeable. The evening started with an appreciation of legendary Buddy Holly. The first song was "It Doesn't Matter Anymore." Asher revealed he admired Holly so much that he decided to wear thick glasses, in honor of the late singer.
Along with stories about their own songs, including "Yesterday's Gone," "Willow Weep For Me," and "I Go To Pieces," they did refreshing takes on cover songs during their two sets ( there was an extremely brief fifteen minute intermission). After discussing the 60s singer Marianne Faithful, who had an affair with Rolling Stone Mick Jagger, they did a nice version of "As Tears Go By" ( the first song writter by Jagger and fellow Stone Keith Richards).
Asher built a tremendous, Grammy Award-winning career as a music producer and manager, associated with such star artists like James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt and Diana Ross. Taylor was mentioned quite often. Asher talked about how he and Taylor found the classic Carole King penned song "You've Got A Friend," which was their encore at Sellersville.
Perhaps the best memories were those of The Beatles, especially Paul McCartney. Asher shared a fascinating story of the # 1 Peter and Gordon hit, "World Without Love," which was written by McCartney. Paul lived with the Asher family for two years, while he dated Peter's beautiful red-haired sister Jane. Paul gave the song to Peter, saying that "John (Lennon) didn't care for the song." The song wasn't finished, so Paul retreated to his bedroom and finished 'World Without Love" in a mere eight minutes!
Classic songs like "A Summer Song" and "World Without Love" ended the second set. The sold-out crowd was on it's feet. The ovation was well-deserved as the new duo pf Peter and Jeremy gave their fans an evening full of great songs and fun stories. To top it off, both met with fans after the show in the lobby, Asher signing copies of his recent book about The Beatles, and Clyde signing cds of his solo recordings.
Tuesday, March 3, 2020
book-hollies pt 3
Place on page 33, after para 1
I would always be a social worker. And I would always believe in what started me on my journey 30 years earlier, the same belief my parents instilled in me all my life. "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" never sounded so good and still meant so much to me. The compassion that consumed my heart so long ago would never go away.
I would always be a social worker. And I would always believe in what started me on my journey 30 years earlier, the same belief my parents instilled in me all my life. "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" never sounded so good and still meant so much to me. The compassion that consumed my heart so long ago would never go away.
book- hollies part 2
Place on page 312, after para 6.
The one common link that impressed me the most, the one that meant so much to me and convinced me that Holly was a special person with a good heart, was when she told me one of her favorite songs too was "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother." That clinched it.
The one common link that impressed me the most, the one that meant so much to me and convinced me that Holly was a special person with a good heart, was when she told me one of her favorite songs too was "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother." That clinched it.
book- hollies
Place on page 92, after para 2
Becoming a social worker sounded like a nice idea. Helping others on need. Giving back what was given to me all my life. One could not find a nobler profession.
I always loved the song "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" by The Hollies. It's about helping others, be it professionally as a social worker, or just in one's everyday life. Lending a hand. Lifting someone up when they are down. Offering support. Making them feel better by a smile, or a kind word, or some friendly advice. Or just by being there to listen.
Becoming a social worker sounded like a nice idea. Helping others on need. Giving back what was given to me all my life. One could not find a nobler profession.
I always loved the song "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" by The Hollies. It's about helping others, be it professionally as a social worker, or just in one's everyday life. Lending a hand. Lifting someone up when they are down. Offering support. Making them feel better by a smile, or a kind word, or some friendly advice. Or just by being there to listen.
REVIEW- PHILLY FLOWER SHOW
We were at the Philadelphia Convention Center Monday to view this year's Philly Flower Show. The theme is Riviara Holiday. Scenes from the Italy, Spain and other countries near the Mediterranean area.
We got there after 10:00am and it was predictably crowded. But we have seen it worse. We learned not to see the displays near the enterance first, but to branch out and see displays in the middle and back of the world's largest indoor flower show. So we hung around vendors for a few hours and saw countless amazing items to view and buy.
There was a good mix of men and women at the show ( granted, more women. Refreshingly, lots of young people too). With the coronavirus outbreak we only saw one person wearing a mask.
The main displays are lovely and very realistic, with manuy courtyards, trellises and olive trees.I noted a lack of color, however. Flower color, specifically. The walls in the displays are colorful, like the homes in Italy. But too much green and not enough flower colors.
Otherwise it's a great show, like usual.
It took about four hours to slowly see everything. Once outside in the March Philadelphia sunshine, with the temperture in the 50s, it really felt like spring.
We got there after 10:00am and it was predictably crowded. But we have seen it worse. We learned not to see the displays near the enterance first, but to branch out and see displays in the middle and back of the world's largest indoor flower show. So we hung around vendors for a few hours and saw countless amazing items to view and buy.
There was a good mix of men and women at the show ( granted, more women. Refreshingly, lots of young people too). With the coronavirus outbreak we only saw one person wearing a mask.
The main displays are lovely and very realistic, with manuy courtyards, trellises and olive trees.I noted a lack of color, however. Flower color, specifically. The walls in the displays are colorful, like the homes in Italy. But too much green and not enough flower colors.
Otherwise it's a great show, like usual.
It took about four hours to slowly see everything. Once outside in the March Philadelphia sunshine, with the temperture in the 50s, it really felt like spring.
AMERICAN IDOL-WEEK 3
American Idol swung into week 3 with a few potenial winners. They didn't show enough bad performers, of which I take delight in these audition shows. There is always the set-up, which they try to pass off as spontaneous but really isn't. And, of course, there's always at least one emotional story that tugs at the heartstrings.
The potential winner i really liked was a nurse who can sing, who movd to Nashville from the Ohio area. She is pretty and can sing! She brought along her boyfriend, also a singer/songwriter from Nashville. At this stage, names come and go, but I'm sure I'll catch her in Hollywood.
If they devote a segment to your story, or even spend the time showing your audition among the hundreds, you have a pretty good shot. Remember, they already have whittled their contestants down to 24, so they can pick and choose the ones you'll see in the months to come.
The set-up was Ryan Seacrest (with camera) meeting a young girl sitting outside the audition place in Savannah, Georgia. Somehow she messed up the arrival time and was past due. Still, she waited, hoping to get lucky. Seacrest took her inside and got her a special audition. She made it to Hollywood, and that was the feel-good story of the week.
The emotional story was a girl who tried out several years ago, didn't make it, but returned. Her sister supported her then. Since the first audition the sister died in a car crash. This time the contestant sang an emotional rendition of Michael Bolton's "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You?" Her rendition was just okay. She made it to Hollywood.
More auditions next Sunday. Hopefully they end in two weeks. Time to move on to Hollywood week.
The potential winner i really liked was a nurse who can sing, who movd to Nashville from the Ohio area. She is pretty and can sing! She brought along her boyfriend, also a singer/songwriter from Nashville. At this stage, names come and go, but I'm sure I'll catch her in Hollywood.
If they devote a segment to your story, or even spend the time showing your audition among the hundreds, you have a pretty good shot. Remember, they already have whittled their contestants down to 24, so they can pick and choose the ones you'll see in the months to come.
The set-up was Ryan Seacrest (with camera) meeting a young girl sitting outside the audition place in Savannah, Georgia. Somehow she messed up the arrival time and was past due. Still, she waited, hoping to get lucky. Seacrest took her inside and got her a special audition. She made it to Hollywood, and that was the feel-good story of the week.
The emotional story was a girl who tried out several years ago, didn't make it, but returned. Her sister supported her then. Since the first audition the sister died in a car crash. This time the contestant sang an emotional rendition of Michael Bolton's "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You?" Her rendition was just okay. She made it to Hollywood.
More auditions next Sunday. Hopefully they end in two weeks. Time to move on to Hollywood week.
Sunday, March 1, 2020
book- willie
(Place on page 98 after para 7)
It was true- Willie had his bad points, but deep down inside he was a good guy. I learned a lot from him, most of all how to stick up for myself. I'll never forget the time we needed to use the lone small elevator at school to get upstairs for our next class. It took forever to arrive to the first floor. When the door opened we found out why: the elevator was loaded with able-bodied students.
"What the hell?"Willie bellowed. "Ain't the stairs good enough for y'all? How did you get an elevator key anyway? Maybe me and my friend here should just crawl up the steps on our rear ends while you jackasses ride the damn elevaor all day?"
On and on it went, as the elevator emptied. Silent, red-faced students quickly filed out and dispersed. I wanted to crawl under the nearest rock but Willie was right. And as we rode up together he glanced at me and remarked, "Sometimes you gotta speak up, Smitty. Especially when people just don't give a damn."
It was true- Willie had his bad points, but deep down inside he was a good guy. I learned a lot from him, most of all how to stick up for myself. I'll never forget the time we needed to use the lone small elevator at school to get upstairs for our next class. It took forever to arrive to the first floor. When the door opened we found out why: the elevator was loaded with able-bodied students.
"What the hell?"Willie bellowed. "Ain't the stairs good enough for y'all? How did you get an elevator key anyway? Maybe me and my friend here should just crawl up the steps on our rear ends while you jackasses ride the damn elevaor all day?"
On and on it went, as the elevator emptied. Silent, red-faced students quickly filed out and dispersed. I wanted to crawl under the nearest rock but Willie was right. And as we rode up together he glanced at me and remarked, "Sometimes you gotta speak up, Smitty. Especially when people just don't give a damn."
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