Jonathan's Story
Viewing comments for Chapter 29 "Finale!"Our fostering journey with a severely disabled boy
30 total reviews
Comment from Rachelle Allen
Omigoodness, Wendy! What a perfect ending to this beautiful, impassioned, elucidating tale of your wonderful boy...and you! I know you don't like lights shined your way, but in this case, it's fair. Because, yes, Jonathan was the one doing the teaching, but you were the one brave enough to speak up for him.
And what a job you did in real life as well as here in the written account. I'd so love to see this accepted for publication. And with the tenacity you have in abundance, I very much expect to see exactly that.
I like "Unlikely Survivor: Jonathan's Story" as a title.
xoxox
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
  |
Omigoodness, Wendy! What a perfect ending to this beautiful, impassioned, elucidating tale of your wonderful boy...and you! I know you don't like lights shined your way, but in this case, it's fair. Because, yes, Jonathan was the one doing the teaching, but you were the one brave enough to speak up for him.
And what a job you did in real life as well as here in the written account. I'd so love to see this accepted for publication. And with the tenacity you have in abundance, I very much expect to see exactly that.
I like "Unlikely Survivor: Jonathan's Story" as a title.
xoxox
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Thank you so much Rachelle for this beautiful review, along with the six lovely stars. You are very kind!
A reviewer pointed out that using "survivor" in the title tends to give away the ending. So now I am wondering about "Battling the Odds: An Unlikely Life" ? any thoughts about that?
Thank you again for all your support and encouragement throughout this project. I have always been helped and uplifted by your care.
Wendy
-
The reason I LIKE the word "survivor" is because it's an automatic story of triumph then. You read it knowing the hero walks away with the win.
Comment from patcelaw
Bravo, bravo. I am so impressed with your lovely story about Jonathan once again. I see your compassion, your love and your care for those who cannot help themselves this touch my heart deeply. I wish you the very best and getting the book published and I wish you the very best with all of your life. May God bless you richly for the many things that you have done. Patricia.
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
|
Bravo, bravo. I am so impressed with your lovely story about Jonathan once again. I see your compassion, your love and your care for those who cannot help themselves this touch my heart deeply. I wish you the very best and getting the book published and I wish you the very best with all of your life. May God bless you richly for the many things that you have done. Patricia.
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Thank you so much Patricia. Your lovely words and great encouragement throughout this process have always been so encouraging. The six stars are also very special and valued. Thank you.
Wendy
Comment from Tom Horonzy
Whether this release is worth an extra star I am not one to be a judge, but as for you and your willingness to share your life with Jonathon is going far and beyond the mark of normalcy for a human being. You are a CARING person, and extraordinary.
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
|
Whether this release is worth an extra star I am not one to be a judge, but as for you and your willingness to share your life with Jonathon is going far and beyond the mark of normalcy for a human being. You are a CARING person, and extraordinary.
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Thank you very much Tom! I hope my writing was worth the extra star, and I greatly value the six, as well as your very kind words.
Wendy
Comment from Jim Wile
What a marvelous conclusion to this tale, Wendy, and I especially loved the very end where you compare Jonathan's journey to an orchestra playing. Very poetic.
I think you would have made a great CEO or the chief of the Disability Service. You had so much better feel for the disabled than any of those others showed. You also have quite a remarkable family for showing such unconditional love and support for Jonathan. That's a testament to you as a mother.
Though unlucky with the condition of his life, Jonathan was indeed lucky to have found such a loving family to help him through it and to achieve as much happiness as possible
This was such a well written account of this adventure in your lives. You really put us readers through the gamut of emotions. I think this would make a wonderful book, and I would encourage you to pursue publication. The proposed title is good; however, part of the thrill and appeal of this story was not knowing if Jonathan would survive, or if all the problems in his life would eventually do him in. Your proposed title sort of gives it away. I found it very gratifying to find out in the last chapter that he made it through all the trials, and the suspense wouldn't have been there for me if I'd known in advance that Jonathan would end up as an unlikely survivor.
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
|
What a marvelous conclusion to this tale, Wendy, and I especially loved the very end where you compare Jonathan's journey to an orchestra playing. Very poetic.
I think you would have made a great CEO or the chief of the Disability Service. You had so much better feel for the disabled than any of those others showed. You also have quite a remarkable family for showing such unconditional love and support for Jonathan. That's a testament to you as a mother.
Though unlucky with the condition of his life, Jonathan was indeed lucky to have found such a loving family to help him through it and to achieve as much happiness as possible
This was such a well written account of this adventure in your lives. You really put us readers through the gamut of emotions. I think this would make a wonderful book, and I would encourage you to pursue publication. The proposed title is good; however, part of the thrill and appeal of this story was not knowing if Jonathan would survive, or if all the problems in his life would eventually do him in. Your proposed title sort of gives it away. I found it very gratifying to find out in the last chapter that he made it through all the trials, and the suspense wouldn't have been there for me if I'd known in advance that Jonathan would end up as an unlikely survivor.
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Good thinking. I wanted to end on a positive note, but you are right - I don't want to give away the ending, as the book is full of dramas which always leave the reader on the edge, wondering. My other thought was "Against all odds" (which may also be too revealing) or "Battling the odds: a different life" or else something a bit different like "An Unlikely Story!" Any thoughts about these? Or any other ideas?
Meanwhile, thank you from my heart for your encouraging and supportive review, with the precious gift of six stars as well. Thank you for the honour!
Wendy
-
I kind of like "Battling the odds: a different life."
Another possibility would be "Jonathan's Story" with a subtitle of "Can one family beat the odds?"
Comment from BethShelby
This has been a marvelous story from beginning to end and I wish every one that has a works with a disabled person would benefit from reading it. It is hard to imagine being in Jonathan's condition an still being able to experience any of the good things in life. I am happy to know he had you in his corner. You are remarkable in so many ways.
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
|
This has been a marvelous story from beginning to end and I wish every one that has a works with a disabled person would benefit from reading it. It is hard to imagine being in Jonathan's condition an still being able to experience any of the good things in life. I am happy to know he had you in his corner. You are remarkable in so many ways.
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Thank you so very much for this most encouraging review! Also for the six stars, which are very meaningful and valued. I appreciate both, a great deal.
Wendy
Comment from Pam Lonsdale
Wendy, thank you for bringing us this well-told story of Jonathan - from the time he entered your life until present. You and your entire family are incredible in the way you took on the responsibilities of caring for him, and showing the love that you have for him. I pray that he understands that love, but I'm so sad to read that his "spark" is gone. Without that spark, is anything worthwhile?
I believe we are all teachers, and that we learn from everyone we come in contact with; hopefully, they learn from us. You are an extraordinary teacher and "learner"!
For the title, I like "Unlikely Survivor: Jonathan's Story". He survived against all odds, if you ask me. I wish you luck in getting it published; regardless of whether a person ever comes in contact with a disabled individual, his story, and your dedication, is an amazing one.
Thank you so much for sharing, Wendy. Now, take a break and relax, lol!
xo
Pam
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
|
Wendy, thank you for bringing us this well-told story of Jonathan - from the time he entered your life until present. You and your entire family are incredible in the way you took on the responsibilities of caring for him, and showing the love that you have for him. I pray that he understands that love, but I'm so sad to read that his "spark" is gone. Without that spark, is anything worthwhile?
I believe we are all teachers, and that we learn from everyone we come in contact with; hopefully, they learn from us. You are an extraordinary teacher and "learner"!
For the title, I like "Unlikely Survivor: Jonathan's Story". He survived against all odds, if you ask me. I wish you luck in getting it published; regardless of whether a person ever comes in contact with a disabled individual, his story, and your dedication, is an amazing one.
Thank you so much for sharing, Wendy. Now, take a break and relax, lol!
xo
Pam
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Thank you so much for this super review, Pam, along with the six valued stars. One reviewer pointed out that if I use "survivor" in the title it gives away the ending. So I am considering changing it to "Battling the odds: an unlikely life". Any thoughts? I always respect your opinion ?
Wendy
-
Well, I like that title too, and I what the reader is saying about using "survivor". I'm not sure if you are using an editor, agent or publisher, but they will also have input that will reflect what they know will sell books.
Keep us posted as to what is happening there. xo
Comment from Begin Again
The title "Unlikely Survivor: Jonathan's Story" would be perfect, Wendy. Against all odds, the young man has fought so many difficult times and was beyond fortunate to have you and your family there, filled with love, understanding, and patience, to help him. His story - your story - will encourage others to stand up and do the same.
Smiles and hugs, Carol
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
 |
The title "Unlikely Survivor: Jonathan's Story" would be perfect, Wendy. Against all odds, the young man has fought so many difficult times and was beyond fortunate to have you and your family there, filled with love, understanding, and patience, to help him. His story - your story - will encourage others to stand up and do the same.
Smiles and hugs, Carol
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Thanks so much Carol for your lovely review. One reviewer just mentioned that "Unlikely Survivor" gives away the ending too much. What do you think of "Battling the Odds: A Different Life"?
(which reflects your thoughts also about his fight against all odds ... and ours too). I hope you don't mind me picking your brains! Thank you again.
Wendy
-
I agree... You need a title that draws the reader in to find the answer. I wrote a story about my granddaughter playing ball with all boys and showing she had what it took. I called it Against All Odds. So I think Battling the Odds or Against All Odds will make the reader want to learn what the battle was and whether he won or not. It's a terrific story!
Smiles, Carol
Comment from Wayne Fowler
Well done.
"Unlikely Survivor: Jonathan's Story" - Sounds perfect to me.
As you alluded, adopting Jonathan was a family commitment.
He was most fortunate to have you advocating for him. I'm sure also, that others benefited from your care for him.
Best wishes.
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
|
Well done.
"Unlikely Survivor: Jonathan's Story" - Sounds perfect to me.
As you alluded, adopting Jonathan was a family commitment.
He was most fortunate to have you advocating for him. I'm sure also, that others benefited from your care for him.
Best wishes.
This rating does not count towards story rating or author rank.
The highest and the lowest rating are not included in calculations.
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Thank you very much Wayne, for reading and reviewing every chapter and offering support throughout. So very much appreciated.
Wendy
Comment from Dolly'sPoems
You have learned so much about Jonothan and yourself during this journey with him and your caring has ensured that Jonothan has been treated with respect and that his needs are attended to. It is a pity that Jonothan can no longer taste food, something we all take for granted, a pleasure that was taken away from my father when he had cancer and I shed a tear about it. Having a meal with the family is bonding and these occasions are joyful and satisfying. I can't imagine what life would be like if I never tasted good again Wendy. I felt your pain when you battled with the decision to have Jonothan tube fed and you fought tooth and nail for his rights. I admire your tenacious spirit and without you and your family Jonothan could very well have died a long time ago.
I have enjoyed learning about Jonothan and the care you have given him over the years. Love Dolly x x x
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
|
You have learned so much about Jonothan and yourself during this journey with him and your caring has ensured that Jonothan has been treated with respect and that his needs are attended to. It is a pity that Jonothan can no longer taste food, something we all take for granted, a pleasure that was taken away from my father when he had cancer and I shed a tear about it. Having a meal with the family is bonding and these occasions are joyful and satisfying. I can't imagine what life would be like if I never tasted good again Wendy. I felt your pain when you battled with the decision to have Jonothan tube fed and you fought tooth and nail for his rights. I admire your tenacious spirit and without you and your family Jonothan could very well have died a long time ago.
I have enjoyed learning about Jonothan and the care you have given him over the years. Love Dolly x x x
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Thank you so much, Dolly, for this very positive and supportive review. And for the wonderful six stars. So very much appreciated!
Comment from Jesse James Doty
Yes, my friend, that would be an excellent title for his book. He has meant so much to you and all of us as we grew to learn more about his journey through life in an assisted living environment. As he valued eating so much you fought to save his eating habits so that he wouldn't need to be tube fed but alas, he needed it after all, and thus the discovery of how to work the system of hospital care.
Thanks for sharing his heartwarming tale.
Jesse
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
|
Yes, my friend, that would be an excellent title for his book. He has meant so much to you and all of us as we grew to learn more about his journey through life in an assisted living environment. As he valued eating so much you fought to save his eating habits so that he wouldn't need to be tube fed but alas, he needed it after all, and thus the discovery of how to work the system of hospital care.
Thanks for sharing his heartwarming tale.
Jesse
Comment Written 14-Apr-2024
reply by the author on 14-Apr-2024
-
Thank you very much Jesse, for your very positive and supportive review - and for the six stars. I value them a great deal. I am glad you like the title. The other one I was considering was "Against All Odds."
Wendy
-
Hello Wendy.
Yes, that is a good title too. Both suggest the struggles you incurred as a guardian for Johnathan.
Good luck with the publishing.
Jesse
-
Thank you, Jesse. Apparently only 1 to 2% of manuscripts are accepted from unknown writers by publishers. I need to find one who is interested in the life story of a disabled person, which may not be so easy. I prefer not to self-publish if possible.
-
Don't give up. I know you can do it.
But I agree self-publishing is a drag.