Are your science fiction worlds connected?
Yes! The SPOTLIGHT short story world takes place thousands of years before the STARS FALL CIRCLE.
Do you write in any other genre?
Yes! I’ve also written a nonfiction book called THE COLOR OF PAIN. I also write standalone literary-leaning fantasy and fantasy for middle-grade.
Can you read my book?
I’m sorry, but I can’t. I have to be really protective of my time and energy due to Chronic Migraine (see below). But I did put together a Resource Page for you!
You have Chronic Migraine. What is that?
A pain in the head. Ha. I’ve dealt with episodic migraines since birth. With each birthday, the migraines grew worse. Around age 15, I started to transform in chronic migraine. By age 17, I had developed intractable chronic migraine, which means I have had a migraine 24/7 since then. My chronic migraine has mutated into vasal spasm chronic migraine, so a lot of traditional migraine medicines don’t work. And, I often have multiple types going on at once–it’s a really complicated disorder, and one of the most debilitating out there.
Many people debate what actually causes a migraine. Whatever happens, neurons in the brain are fired causing debilitating pain. Some people receive a visual or other physical signal before a migraine hits called an aura. But migraines are not just pain. There’s brain fog, vertigo, nausea, sensitivity to lights and smells and life, and more. Your body is so exhausted, you can also have a lot of symptoms similar to Chronic Fatigue.
After many many doctors and major lifestyle changes, I have made progress in managing, though it is still a very real struggle. So if you email me and it takes a little bit for me to get back to you, know it’s only because reading and writing is sometimes difficult for me due to this.
Or, if we’ve met (several times) and I still can’t remember you, please don’t be offended! My brain has trouble laying down memories when it’s occupied with pain. I often can’t remember people, even if I’ve known them for years.
If you won the gene roulette with any type of migraine or chronic pain, please know you are not alone. I’d love to hear about your journey so we can encourage each other 🙂
Have you tried _______ for the migraines?
Yes, I promise you. I have seen the best doctors in the country, been in the best hospitals. I know my body. I’ve been dealing with this my whole life.
Heads up (*snicker* pun *snicker*): Asking this isn’t offensive to me, as I know you’re probably just trying to help. But hearing this can be really offensive to many people because it implies you (or your aunt or whoever else has migraines) know more about their situation than they do. But I will probably say “thank you” and move along 🙂
On your About page, you said you have a certificate in Soul Care. What is that?
Soul care is kind of like spiritual counseling, though it’s not the same as counseling. Surprise, surprise–it’s how to care and love someone else’s soul. Why would anyone need a certificate to love? Take a look around. I don’t think we’re doing a very good job of really listening and caring for each other. The certificate means I am a certified spiritual director, though I don’t actively practice.
During a direction session, I would help you live out of love, in loving God and others to the best of your abilities, but also in knowing you are loved. It works best for Christians, though you don’t have to be one to participate. We would sit over hot chocolate/tea/(your coffee) and chat about your life.
If you’re afraid I’ll pin you down to talk, don’t be. I got it for my own growth. Though I’d be more than happy to chat about it. I have found it has really influenced my way of living and how I approach art/creativity and suffering.
Who did your head shots?
Brian Lee. He has since stopped working as a photographer, but was willing to do a friend a favor 🙂
Where did you find the picture of the typewriter?
The photo was taken by Victor Koos, a photographer based in Detroit. He is drawn to the idea of “visual resonance.” You can find more of his work on his website and on 500px.com.