Beyond letters, I never wanted to be a writer. But because my former husband has Huntington's Disease,
I decided to write a book, knowing there was little or no possibility of it getting published
through traditional channels.
Terrence J. McCann, Executive Director of Toastmasters International, said, "Words have power.
Words have altered the course of history and changed forever the destiny of individuals who spoke out."
I knew my words had power. The power to create awareness about this devastating neurological disorder
for which, right now, there is no cure. I also knew my words had the power to put a face to a disease
that few people know about or understand. Woody Guthrie suffered with Huntington's Disease, and his wife,
Marjorie, began what ultimately became the Huntington's Disease Society of America.
Money was not my motivation in writing, and through an incredible set of circumstances, all beginning with the Internet, it became
possible for me to self publish Faces of Huntington's in May 1998. One year later, I had sold close to 5,000 copies, and the book is
still selling throughout the world.
Fewer than 50,000 people from the United States and Canada have Huntington's Disease. While I am pleased that so few people have to daily
live with the horrors of the physical and mental deterioration, the small number of affected people makes raising money for the cure a
challenging, seemingly impossible task.
Most of you reading this site have probably never heard of Huntington's Disease. You probably already have a charity or cause that claims
your money, but I have a favor to ask of you. Would you consider helping us care for those with HD? Would you help us find a cure?
The Huntington's Disease Society of America, the Kelly E. Miller Juvenile HD Fund and the Huntington's Society
of Canada all need your help. I am only one person who decided we needed awareness and a cure. I am blessed that
my writing has raised both awareness and much needed funds. The scientists are getting closer to a cure, but it all
takes money. If each person visiting this site would give one, ten, twenty-five or more dollars, we could help
make the cure a reality much sooner. What can you do?
Central Florida Huntington's Disease Support GroupYour gifts will be forwarded to the designated organization. Please specify your choice a copy of Faces of Huntington's or my Faces of Huntington's musical CD if you are donating $50.00 or more.
c/o Living Hope, Inc.
PO Box 952163
Lake Mary, FL 32795-2163