Stories of Pregnancy and Infant Loss

I've been busy, busy, busy this month. I FINALLY got our book, Stolen Angels: 25 Stories of Hope after Pregnancy or Infant Loss to the printer! I can't believe the writing and editing portion are actually completed. This journey has been absolutely grueling, but so worth it.

Here's a few starter tips for getting your own book out of your head and into print:

• If you have been playing with the idea of putting a book together, share your ideas with a few close friends. If they seem enthusiastic about your idea, maybe you're on to something. Despite popular belief, most people aren't plotting to steal your ideas and turn them into books before you have the opportunity to take action. Besides, word of mouth is one of the greatest marketing tools in a writer's arsenal.
• After you have a great idea, do research to see what others have done on that topic. There are probably many books on the subject, but find a hole and make that your niche.
• Carry your research and writing materials with you everywhere you go. If you leave them at your desk with only a cursory commitment to "write when you can" ... more than likely that idea will remain just that - a great idea.

I am a huge advocate of writing about your loss(es). After writing my own story and helping almost 30 others do the same ... I can say with conviction that writing is healing. There are some things a person is just plain scared to say aloud, but with a keyboard or pen, the hidden feelings come tumbling out.

When you dig deep and allow yourself to feel - truly feel - healing will happen. As a bereavement counselor and friend, I have counseled countless women who've lost babies in more scenarios than I can name here. In my experience, those who spend time doing real grief work are most likely to heal. Those who hide or choose "not to think about it" or cry are more likely to suffer silently - for years and beyond.

I've been thinking about teaching an (Internet-based) writing class ... where I teach parents to write a heartfelt, professional version their baby's story. Would any of you be interested in such a class? I haven't worked out the details yet, but if you're interested ... shoot an e-mail to momax3angels@yahoo.com.

In the meantime, check out some of the writers who've made Stolen Angels the healing work it's come to be. Just click on "Author Bios."

Hugs,
Sharee