A Spouse's Survival Guide to Terminal Illness is Revealed in JOURNEY OF MY HEART

By: Feb. 19, 2013
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"In sickness and in health," are familiar words, but few spouses really expect to have that oath tested. Mary Ann Sheveland is one of those few, having cared for her husband during his battle with the coronary artery disease that ultimately claimed him.

In her memoir "Journey of My Heart" (published by iUniverse), Sheveland reveals the shattering impact of terminal illness on her family and how she forged a path from grief to recovery by finding happiness and her identity again after years of sacrifice and heartbreak.

Spanning nearly two decades, "Journey of My Heart" chronicles Sheveland's experiences as a caretaker to her husband, who suffered from a degenerative heart condition. It not only discusses the intimate details the disease's effect on Sheveland's relationships, finances and wellbeing, but also depicts her fight to "step outside the box to find happiness," she says. "It shows people how to more than just live, but how to make the absolute best of a raw deal."

Sheveland was moved to write the book after discovering many books on the subject of terminal illness are purely clinical and did not address the myriad feelings she was unable to process.

"I want the reader to know that they are not alone when facing a terminal health crisis; others have come down a similar road," she says. "With love, faith and by working together they can share an incredible amount of happiness in the time they have together."

"Journey of My Heart" is not only a story of love, determination and emotional courage; it's a message to anyone struggling with the terminal illness of a loved one: there are resources available; there is hope in the end.

Journey of My Heart
By Mary Ann Sheveland
ISBN: 978-1-4759-3786-2
Softcover, retail price: $18.95
Hardcover, retail price: $28.95
E-book price: $3.99

About the Author
Sheveland grew up in Brownwood, Texas. Since her husband's death, she has written several books, including, "The Pioneers," "Children's Short Stories," "Reflections," and a book of poetry, along with her recently published, "Journey of My Heart."



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