Ghostwriting is born

What is Ghost Writing?

Discovering ghost writing happened in the midst of arduous circumstances.

My best friend in Kalamazoo was dealing with the unwelcome news of cancer. Our close connection revealed feelings of helplessness in me.

As I am prone to do, I offered to help in any way I could. Lori asked me to update her Caring Bridge (a website to keep family friends aware of any news) in her voice.  She would tell me what needed to be updated and I would be her vessel  to publish her test results or her emotions of  an experience. 

Later, she asked me to write her story for a local program bringing breast cancer awareness at an Art Hop exhibit in downtown Kalamazoo.We attended the opening together, and the exhibit gave her story a reverence she really needed. The display succeeded in demonstrating the delicate gift life really is to behold. Using pictures and essays it all came together in a breathtaking atmosphere.  To my surprise, she lovingly added my name to the byline. 

The intimacy we shared writing this together is still vivid 11 years later as I share this with you. The coffee shop we talked in has been replaced by an ice cream chain but to me its a sacred space. Her precious words poured out and  I lovingly took notes.  That day is crystal clear in my memory.  Assisting her in the important but painful process of storytelling is now something I find rich value in being able to provide to others. 

Maybe you need a companion to walk you through your own story. It could be lighthearted, or just a letter you really need help writing. Perhaps it isn’t to be written down but it deserves the space and presence of someone who enters your story with tremendous respect. We can find out together. Just reach out.