Amy Y. Martin

Another Day, Another Interview!

2009-04-06T18:40:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

Just a quick shout out to let everyone know that I completed another interview. This time, it is with a gentleman named Dr. Jones.

I have the link posted on the side with the other interviews and podcasts. Please give a listen and let me know what you think. FYI: Dr. Jones mistakenly mentioned that my book was "fiction" instead of a memoir or autobiography. Just didn't want everyone to be confused!

As always, you can reach me HERE. I'd love to hear from you and if you would like me to speak for your event, organization etc., please contact me and we can talk.

Have a great Monday evening everyone!

Amy

Radio Interviews Wait for No One!

2009-03-30T21:36:00.000-07:00

Just when I thought my radio interview schedule was set, my rep at Planned TV Arts calls!

It seems that she has booked me on a show airing live Tomorrow (March 31) at 1:00pm called "Doctor Radio". The show runs in collaboration with NYU Medical Center so it will hopefully reach a multitude of people!

So, if you have a moment, please tune in!

By the way, I posted my podcast interviews as they become available to the left of my postings. Please feel free to listen in at your convenience. If you have any comments or questions, please contact me by clicking HERE.

See you on the Radio!
Amy

Let the Interviews Begin!

2009-03-20T19:53:00.000-07:00

I just finished my first round of radio interviews! Most of the stations were AM News/Talk Health Shows, which is exciting! I had hoped when I wrote "Living to Tell About it, A Pursuit of Normalcy" that I would be able to help others who were facing the same health issues or just serve as someone that can provide inspiration to get through the difficulties that life sometimes hands us. And, it seems like people are responding to the book!

My first interview was in Boston at WDIS with Dan Collier who was extremely nice and made me feel very comfortable. The second interview was with a station in Colombia, MO, KWIX with Stephanie Ross and the 3rd interview was with Eric Mandel out of DesMoines, IA at KIFG and last, but not least, National Health Radio Program with Barbara Alexander.

I had such a great time talking to all the different interviewers, but I have to admit, the idea of "I'm speaking to millions of people," definitely gave me butterflies! I've even noticed a slight increase in book sales since the interviews began. I've still quite a few interviews scheduled throughout this month and part of April, so please tune in and try to catch one of the shows! As always, I'll update you right here when new appearances or interviews take place.

And the Interviews keep coming...

2009-03-14T08:56:00.000-07:00

Thursday, March 26th

MARKET STATION SHOW FORMAT LIVE/TAPE

Regional, IL WSIU-FM Jeff Williams NPR Taped 10:30-10:40am
___________________________________________________________________
Tuesday, March 31st

Regional, NC WCBQ-AM Dr. Alvin Jones Oldies/Talk Live 9:30-9:40am WHNC-AM
___________________________________________________________________
Saturday, April 4th

Hartford, CT WDRC-AM Talk of Connecticut #2 News/Talk Taped

___________________________________________________________________

2 More Dates for the Radio Tour

2009-03-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

As promised, each time I get an update to my schedule of radio interviews, I will place it on the blog. So, without further adieu,

Radio Interview

March 19th at 11:30am-12:30pm Eastern and the other on March 28th (It’s a weekend show) at 1:15-1:30pm Eastern.

Other Notable News

Imagine my surprise when I was contacted out of the blue by Dorrance Publishing recently.

Dorrance Publishing has approached me about publishing my book through them after one of their reps read my book! It was a complete surprise and the first time a publishing house has approached me. While it sounds tempting, I'm still considering this option. No need to make a fast decision, so I won't.

BUT, as soon as I do, I will let you know!

And, the Radio Tour Begins!

2009-03-06T18:07:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone!

Just wanted to let those who are interested know dates and times of interviews I will be giving. This is not a complete list, but is the beginning of the tour. I hope you will tune in and check out my interviews.

As new dates are confirmed, I will post here on the blog. Have a great weekend everyone!

********************************************************************************
RE: Living to Tell About It Radio Interviews

Below is the update for Living to Tell About It by Amy Martin.

Please Note: All times are in Eastern.

Thursday, March 19th

MARKET STATION SHOW FORMAT LIVE/TAPE
Boston, MA WDIS-AM Dan Collier Show News/Talk Taped
9:40-9:50am

Columbia, MO KWIX-AM Stephanie Ross News/Talk Taped
9:55-10:05am

Iowa Falls- KIFG-AM Eric Mandel Adult Contemporary Taped
Des Moines, IA
10:45-10:55am
___________________________________________________________________

Tuesday, March 24th

MARKET STATION SHOW FORMAT LIVE/TAPE
Amherst, VA WAMV-AM Bob Langstaff News/Talk Taped
9:10-9:20am

Pending Interview

MARKET STATION SHOW FORMAT LIVE/TAPE
National Health Radio Barbra Alexander Talk Taped
Network

If you have any questions, please contact me by clicking HERE

Updates and News!

2009-02-24T17:58:00.000-08:00

Hello all,

Just wanted to give everyone the latest news on my appearance schedule. The radio tour that was to happen this month has been delayed as you may have figured out by now!

The latest information that I have is that the tour should start within the next couple of weeks. So be sure to stay tuned to this blog for further details.

I just spoke with a representative from Planned TV Arts and they are busily getting the schedule underway. My church, Saint Francis of Assisi and I are also working together on setting up speaking engagements and other appearances that will hopefully be useful in the community.

Is YOUR workplace, church, community group, local bookstore etc, looking for a speaker or a book signing?

Please feel free to contact me and we can discuss! Email me by clicking HERE.

Best,
Amy

Reporting After the Book Signing!

2009-02-02T08:13:00.000-08:00

Hello once again!
Sorry for the delay in writing, but I wanted to make sure I let everyone know how the book signing for "Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy".

It turns out it was a big success! Quite a few ladies came by and I got the opportunity to speak to each person individually before I was formally "introduced."

I found the experience to be very intriguing as some of the women discussed sections of the book, they began to correlate some of the issues and emotions one goes through when traveling through a crisis, whether health related or not. Needless to say, the conversation was fantastic and I felt I had made some new friends.

Also, while I mentioned it in the past, it seems that speaking may be a new avenue for me to explore. The women at the signing gave me such great feedback and I was just hoping for keeping their attention!

Needless to say, a great time was had by all. Pictures forthcoming!
Thanks for your support!

Book signing TOMORROW!

2009-01-25T17:01:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,
After a busy weekend, even I forgot about my own signing tomorrow night! Please see the information on the previous post for location and time and I hope to meet you soon!

Speaking of this weekend, it seemed so surreal for me, but I went to a reunion for our sorority sisters. It had been a long time since I had seen the girls, but was particularly happy to see my big sister, Julie who now hails from Chicago, Illinois.

Shortly after I was inducted into this sorority, "the" car accident happened and obviously wasn't able to participate or return to college. (You can read more about my accident and all the other events afterward when you come to see me tomorrow night at my book signing!)

If you can't make it to the book signing, please feel free to contact me by clicking HERE, I would love to hear from you!

I'll announce when my radio tour begins as soon as I know the schedule.

Till Then-
Amy

First Announcement of 2009!

2009-01-05T19:21:00.000-08:00

Hello All,

Below is a posting from the Senior Living Guide magazine regarding my book! Be sure to check out the url at the end of the story. I hope you enjoy!

An Inspiring Story of Strength and Survival
LIVING TO TELL ABOUT IT, A
PURSUIT OF NORMALCY

Author Amy Martin shares a life story filled with health challenges

Amy Martin is a writer, business owner, wife, and mother who brings her amazing life story to her first book Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit
of Normalcy. She experienced multiple health problems all while still a young woman. Through the amazing support of her family and her positive attitude, Amy met each challenge and won. Along with her husband, Amy now owns Visiting Angels. This service provides in-home assistance in a wide range of areas to the sick and elderly. After her own struggles, Amy now uses her skills and experience to help others in need.

In Living to Tell About It, Amy Martin provides a chronological history of her life to this point. Each chapter brings another hospital visit, upsetting diagnosis, or painful effort at rehabilitation. However, instead of focusing
on the medical details or allowing herself an understandable moment of
pity, Amy focuses on the relationships in her life that mattered so much in her pursuit of normalcy. Her story of courage and faith will inspire anyone who is facing some of life’s hurdles. Amy Martin is an example of the hope
and happiness that can be achieved after overcoming incredible odds.

AUTHOR CONTACT INFORMATION
Amy Martin
(919) 524-7047
Amy's book may be purchased online at Barnes & Noble,
Amazon or www.lulu.com/context/2193894
Visit her storefront a
http://stores.lulu.com/AmyMartin

STORY ANGLES
Overcoming Multiple Health Crises: Amy faced a stroke, cancer, Graves disease, multiple surgeries and a severe car accident that required extensive physical rehabilitation all before reaching the age of forty. Her normalcy was shattered at age nineteen, when most teenagers are enjoying their first tastes of freedom. Her determination to conquer each challenge will
inspire anyone facing a difficult moment in their own lives.

Family and Faith: Each of Amy’s life-changing health issues would provide enough content for a book. However, she keeps her focus on her parents,
husband and other loved ones. The emotional language she uses to describe her family demonstrates bonds that will be understood by all readers. The acknowledgement of the role of faith in her healing process is
an important component of this book in which others can take strength.

Giving Back to Others:

Amy recognizes that the support provided to her by family and friends during each health crisis was essential to her recovery. She has devoted her professional life to directing Visiting Angels, a licensed home-care service that provides assistance to those in need. Amy has earned industry awards and the satisfaction of many clients.

http://www.seniorlivingguide.com/ TRIANGLE EDITION 00

"Living To Tell About It.." has BIG Plans!

2008-12-11T12:54:00.000-08:00

Hello all,
Just a note to let everyone know that I am still marketing the heck out of my book, "Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy".

The big news is that in FEBRUARY 2009, Planned Television Arts based out of New York City and I will be doing a Country-wide Radio Tour! The exposure will be priceless! They will be hitting approximately 10-18 radio stations throughout the country.

Don't worry, as the time draws nearer, I will let everyone know more information about where and when to listen to my interview.

AND, if that wasn't enough, a Senior Living magazine that serves Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, North Carolina will be running a feature on me and my book in their upcoming winter issue.

I'll see if I can't scan the article and put it on here for you to read.

Don't worry, I'll be in touch soon with more info!

Have a question? would you like to hire me for a speaking engagement? or perhaps a booksigning? Just email me here: Amy Martin and I would be happy to contact you to follow up.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving! and a Book Signing!

2008-11-26T09:11:00.000-08:00

Hello!
First of all, I would love to wish everyone a very happy Thanksgiving. And,

I have big news: I have a book signing on January 26, 2009 at the Apartments of Stonehenge in their clubhouse, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Plans are still firming up as to what time and so forth, but wanted to get the word out as soon as possible.

As it gets closer to the beginning of the year, I will post the address, contact names etc. for your reference. Much thanks to Marie and the evening book club for organizing the event!

Be sure to come by and have your book signed! I look forward to meeting YOU.

Stay Tuned!

2008-11-12T19:08:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true! I finally have a book signing scheduled for "Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy".

The details are being worked out as I speak so please stay tuned! I'll bring you all the details very soon!

Amy

New York, New York - Next Year, Next Year!

2008-10-15T18:51:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to update everyone and let them know that due to the office (Visiting Angels) being really busy and some family issues that came up unexpectedly, I've had to totally focus my time and energy where it was needed most.

I also checked the status of my screenplay, and it just confirmed to me what I already knew; New York would have to wait until next year. The screenplay just isn't far enough along to show a producer or director.

Never fear! "Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy" will be in the theaters if I have anything to say about it!

I'll post more news as it happens right here. Stay tuned! AYM

Coming Full Circle

2008-09-29T16:31:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have bought my book, "Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy", you will remember my talking about the facility, Thoms Rehab in Asheville, North Carolina. This is where I learned to build my strength and re-learn how to do things for myself.

Well, last week I visited Hendersonville and while I was there, I made a point of visiting Thoms in neighboring Asheville. Walking back into that hospital gave me an eerie sense of coming full circle. All the difficult physical therapy came back to me instantly as I walked the halls effortlessly.

That's me in the center with friends.

I was so pleased to find that one of my old therapists was still working there, a mere 20 years later. Jim, my old physical therapist has since moved on. Last I heard, he was Rehab Director at a hospital in Louisville, Kentucky. I gave the PT department an inservice. I talked with them about what had happened to me as well as show them my old rehab videos. I let them know that I could be available for them if they felt I could be useful to them.

After seeing the dramatic recovery I made since my rehab video they decided that I could be of help by making presentations to families , current patients or whomever would benefit. One of the PT's gave me the number for the person who heads up the Head Injury Association...we've been playing phone tag thus far, but I would really like to get involved in speaking to head injury groups.

Who knew that I would recover so dramatically?

Do YOU know of a group that would be interested in my speaking services?

Also, if anyone who is reading my blog has anyone that they think would be good for me to get in touch with I'd love to hear about it. Please feel free to contact me HERE.

Serendipity at a Bookstore!

2008-08-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

Part of being an author is to market your books. And, the best way to "get your name out there" is to make your books available to readers. This also creates an opportunity for the author to hold booksignings which creates publicity for the book. It's a win-win situation.

Well, one day as I visited a local bookstore here in Raleigh called Quail Ridge Books, I had just made arrangements for the store to carry my books and was about to leave the store until I noticed an announcement on the cash register, "Meeting Saturday Night - Learn about Podcasting, by Write to Publish Group."

I considered myself familiar with podcasting already because I was just interviewed by Yvonne Perry's podcast "Writers in the Sky". However, Tim and I decided to attend the meeting anyway.

Well, I found the meeting to be very interesting. Turns out that the talk was about converting your book into a podiobook. One of the speakers was particularly helpful and very knowledgeable about this new concept. His name is Stacey Cochran and he directed me to his website: http://www.howtopublishabook.org/ . After reading his website, I decided to learn more about this type of publishing. Sure enough, another meeting was scheduled!

It was a smaller group that had several professional people in attendance, including Nancy Stolfo-Corti. She is a professional voice over talent as well as PSA announcer for breast cancer research. Needless to say, the wheels in my brain began turning and I gave her a copy of "Living To Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy" and asked if she would read my book so that it could be downloaded into a mp3 format. She read it almost immediately, and called me the next day to eagerly accept my request! She is arranging for music and professional narration for the book! Needless to say, I was thrilled.

So, I'm feeling very blessed these days! Nancy has also posted my book video on her own website and encourages others to read my book. As we speak, she is almost complete recording my book. I am so anxious to hear the finished product as I know it will be great!

When I wrote my book, it wasn't my intention to do it to make alot of money. I wanted to get my message out there to people. That's why I am going to make my book available by downloads on my blog and other sites as well. Who knows? maybe by making the book available, it will shape somone's future pursuits or interests.

One good turn deserves another, so please, check out my new friiend's book: Stacey Cochran, "The Colorado Sequence". It's also available for a free download on podiobooks.

Stay Tuned for more news!

Holding Out for the Right Agent

2008-07-26T19:41:00.000-07:00

After doing alot of research and considering my options, I have decided to continue my search for the perfect agent for my book!

When I was in Philadelphia recently on a business trip, I was to meet with an agent interested in my book, "Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy." However, my schedule was tighter than I had anticipated and didn't leave much time to discuss the book business!

So, the search goes on. Hopefully, you will be seeing my book come to life as a Lifetime or HBO movie sometime soon. So, if you are an agent, drop me a line and let's talk!

I'm Narrowing the List!

2008-07-01T07:07:00.000-07:00

After searching for a literary agent for some time now, I finally narrowed my search down to a select group. Then, I submitted sections of the book, "Living To Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy."

Sending out samples of work to various agents

The next part is the hardest for me. What part is that? The waiting game! But the wait is over! I received a letter yesterday from a literary agency stating that they would like to represent me! While this is very flattering, I still have some investigating to do on my list!
I have a business trip planned next week for a Visiting Angels conference in Philadelphia and I will be meeting with one agent at that time!

I will certainly keep you posted. Stay tuned!

Start Spreading the News!

2008-06-09T05:58:00.000-07:00

Yep, I will be traveling to New York City in November to attend the screenwriter's conference November 7 - 9th. I don't think I have mentioned that a good friend of mine is working feverishly on the screenplay for my book, "Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy". Her name is Karen Lewis and after reading my book, she felt that a screenplay should be written to "get my story out there".

While we are in New York, we also have appointments to meet with a couple of agents. While our time in New York will be brief, I'm sure we will have an incredible trip! Look for more details and my thoughts about the trip on my blog. If any New Yorkers are reading my blog, I would love to hear from you! Be sure and email me at VisitingAngelsnc@aol.com .

See you soon in the Big Apple!

My Business - "Visiting Angels"

2008-06-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have read my book, (Living to Tell About it, A Pursuit of Normalcy) you may remember that due to my medical complications, I was inspired to become a physical therapist. In turn, that dream eventually evolved into owning my own business!

Visiting Angels is very close to my heart as I truly enjoy working with senior citizens. Take a look at what my company has to offer and if you are in the Raleigh, North Carolina area and need more info, please contact me!

CLICK HERE

Feature Article on Amy Y. Martin

2008-05-25T05:32:00.000-07:00

Published Sunday, May 25, 2008
Amy Yost Martin chronicles her battles to survive: Never give up
By Lindsay LancasterTimes-Staff News Writer

You never would have guessed that Amy Yost (now Martin), an athletic, popular 1987 Hendersonville High graduate and homecoming queen, would have to fight to survive health problems just as she started college at North Carolina State University in Raleigh.

Now a 38-year-old mother of two, Martin has written a book about her challenging experiences called "Living to Tell About it: A Pursuit of Normalcy." In chronological order, the book starts out with her first challenge: She suffered a stroke at age 19 as she was getting out of a pool. A short time later, she faced an auto accident, which left her fighting to live. Doctors induced a coma. Martin wasn't brought back to consciousness until about a month later.

Next challenge: She spent seven months at Thoms Rehabilitation Hospital in Asheville to re-learn how to speak and regain her motor skills. She had to learn how to write with her left hand because of the extent of the accident injuries to her right side. But the nightmare most certainly didn't end there.

Colon cancer ran in her family, and she faced a partial colectomy at age 20. When she was 26, she learned she had Graves disease. At 28, she had to have a full colectomy, but suffered major complications, including a MRSA infection (a strain of staph infection that is extremely resistant to antibiotics).

Surgeries didn't stop there. She had two C-Section surgeries to birth her two sons (Christopher, now 5, and Micheal, now 2) at age 33 and 36. Next she needed ankle surgery at 34 and gallbladder surgery at 37.It's hard to imagine one person enduring so many challenges so young - and surviving. Martin can't explain how she got through it all."I don't know. Maybe it's just inner strength," she says. "I've always kind of been a self-motivated kind of person. ... I've learned from myself that I am an extremely strong person. I'm not somebody who will crumble at something."

A tally of the surgeries/illnesses Martin has faced: Exploratory surgery and physical therapy at 19; partial colectomy at 20; Graves Disease at 26; full colectomy, MRSA and takedown surgery to complete the colectomy process at 28; C-section at 33; ankle surgeries at 34; C-section at 36; and gallbladder surgery at 37. Part of getting through it all may be related to the fact that Martin never asked, "Why is this happening to me?" "That never entered my mind. I can remember thinking, just because I've had this happen, doesn't mean that something else isn't going to happen," she says.

Her experiences with physical therapy, especially at Thoms Rehabilitation Hospital, ultimately led her to want to help others the way they have helped her for so many years. After her car accident, Martin longed to return to a "normal" life as she watched former classmates earn their degrees and progress through life."I was really frustrated because I didn't have a goal, or even any idea of what to do," she says, explaining that by this time, many of her friends were already getting their college degrees. "Through my own therapy, I feel like I developed a bond with my physical therapists."After seeing a career counselor and taking tests to determine her interests, "I decided that getting an associate's degree in physical therapy would be the way for me to go," she says.

After beginning her career in physical therapy, she met the man she would marry, Tim Martin, and tied the knot in 1995.When she had been working in physical therapy for about seven years, she and Tim looked into opening a non-medical home care service, where clients could be helped with cleaning, meals, hygiene assistance and shopping, among other services."I had never heard of this kind of service," Martin says. "I just knew it would work."They opened a franchise called Visiting Angels and haven't looked back. And the business is a success.

To this day, Martin is still affected by health issues. She still has a slight case of double vision that gives her trouble when staring at the computer screen or reading a book. Her left ankle still gives her trouble. And she has arthritis in her right knee and hip. But she still hits the gym two to three days a week. Martin feels as though exercise might have aided her recovery. "It kind of has re-taught my body normal movement," she says. It has been trying for Martin because she can't do all of the activities that she used to enjoy, such as running or swimming. She is deaf in her left ear, which makes it difficult to hear in certain situations.But these obstacles haven't stopped her from enjoying life or doing things many people shudder at the thought of doing.

In fact, in 1994, Martin did something the vast majority of the population hasn't tried. She went skydiving from a small plane at 12,500 feet altitude with a fellow physical therapist."It was really unbelievable. It all seemed very surreal but it was great!" she says. "I'm glad I did it!"

Though she doesn't feel like she will ever truly be "normal," she has always maintained a positive outlook on life."It's almost eerie in a way, like there's a guardian angel, or somebody directing my life in the ways that it's gone, and for years I've felt that way," she says sincerely. "I have a very blessed life.""Living to Tell About It: The Pursuit of Normalcy," published by LuLu.com, is a quick read and you won't want to put it down. It details her story from high school on, chronicling her ups and downs, experiences and relationships.

Martin really decided to write about her life when she went to her 20th high school reunion last year. Although she had given thought to writing her story before, it was after former classmate and valedictorian Furman McDonald, who is now a doctor at the Mayo Clinic, encouraged her to put a book together.

"I guess his approval made me kind of feel that maybe it is worth writing a book," Martin says. She and her husband looked for writing services online and contacted Writers in the Sky, based in Nashville, Tenn. Working with the agency, Martin began the book in November 2007 and finished four months later in March."Unfortunately, we weren't able to really go into a lot of detail about every incident," Martin says. "There was just so much that happened, we couldn't do much more than just touch on things."

After reading Martin's book, friend and fellow HHS graduate Karen Lewis was inspired to begin writing a screenplay about Martin's life. Although Lewis had heard about the beginning of Martin's health problems, she didn't realize how much more happened in Martin's life until she read the book."When I read the book, I was just taken with the story," Lewis says. Now she is about 30 pages into the screenplay. "The way I've done it so far is starting off where she did in the book while she was in college, but then doing flashbacks in high school to kind of set the stage for the person she was to kind of make people understand how her life really has changed."

Martin offers a tidbit of advice for prevailing despite numerous challenges. She says: "When you're faced with what you feel like is an insurmountable obstacle, ... persevere, and know that whatever situation it is you're in or whatever you're doing, it will go away - it'll pass. The sun always comes up tomorrow."The book is available for purchase online at Barnes & Noble, Amazon and www.lulu.com/content/2193894. The video trailer for the book can be found at http://youtube.com/watch?v=icJTWmtpWDI. To see Martin's blog, visit www.amy-y-martin.blogspot.com.

Check out the Amy Y. Martin's PODCAST with WITS

2008-05-24T05:13:00.000-07:00

Writers in the Sky (TM): Amy Martin on Overcoming Tragedy

TGI Friday! I have uploaded a new show to my podcast this week! Amy Martin will be joining Sarah Moore today on Writers in the Sky Podcast !Amy Y. Martin is an entrepreneur, author, philanthropist, wife, mother and quite literally, a survivor. Mrs. Martin is originally from Schenectady, New York but her family eventually moved to North Carolina where Amy and her family continue to live today.

During Amy’s teenage years, she endured and conquered incredible odds in her life by overcoming colon cancer, Graves disease, and severe brain trauma from a serious car accident. While most teenagers are enjoying college and extra-curricular activities, Martin was teaching herself how to walk, talk and speak again. Her medical ordeal inspired an interest in physical therapy where she excelled as a therapist. She was able to complete her schooling and holds an Associate Degree in Applied Sciences-Physical Therapist Assistant.Click here to listen to part 1...

After enjoying a career in physical therapy Mrs. Martin and her husband decided to become business owners and opened Visiting Angels, a licensed home-care service that provides services to those in need with companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation and transportation services. Their business has earned various industry awards as well as kudos from their customers.Click here to listen to Part 2...

Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy is a memoir that details the harrowing medical illnesses and automobile accident of Amy Y. Martin. Follow her incredible journey as she details a series of illnesses ranging from Graves disease to Colon Cancer and a car accident that would require her to re-learn motor and speech skills – all before the age of 20. Her fight to return herself to “normalcy” is one that is both inspirational and unforgettable. This is Mrs. Martin’s first novel and in addition to writing books, she and her husband own a healthcare business. Amy currently resides in North Carolina with her husband and two children. When Amy Martin isn’t writing, she enjoys reading, going to the gym, taking the kids and dog out for a walk and spending time with her family.

To purchase Amy Martin’s memoir on Lulu.com, please visit: www.lulu.com/content/2193894 or at https://stores.lulu.com/AmyMartin.
Purchase on Amazon Purchase on Barnes & Noble View Amy's Book Trailer created by WITS team member Taryn Simpson
http://www.amy-y-martin.blogspot.com// (BLOG)************************************
Listening to Writers in the Sky Podcast on a computer is easy. Just click this link: http://yvonneperry.blogspot.com/ and go to my blog. On the right sidebar there is a list of archived shows. Click on the interview you would like to hear and it will open a post that has a link to the audio file.For information about being a guest on Writers in the Sky Podcast, see http://www.yvonneperry.net/Writing_Packages.htm#Publicity_Packages_
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Colon Cancer Information

2008-05-23T18:09:00.000-07:00

Colon Cancer – The Family Connection

The general population may not be familiar with the term Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP), but for those with a history of colon cancer in their families, the search for the symptoms of this genetic mutation is a routine part of any medical review.

People with the classic form of FAP may begin to develop multiple benign polyps in the colon as early as their teenage years – hundreds or thousands of these growths is not uncommon in persons with FAP. Removal of at least part of the colon is necessary in such a circumstance, as these same polyps will eventually become malignant. If only a partial colectemy is performed, regular surveillance of the remaining portion of the colon is necessary as the individual still carries significant risk of developing colon cancer.

Why does a person with FAP require such close monitoring? The average age at which patients with FAP are diagnosed with colon cancer is thirty-nine. Without any treatment, a person with FAP will, with absolute certainty, eventually develop cancer.

Unfortunately, there is little to indicate the presence of FAP until the polyps develop. Often times, these polyps first make themselves known by bleeding and this blood is then found in the afflicted person’s stool. Another tell-tale sign is anemia, as the development of polyps leads to an iron deficiency. The best defense that a patient has is to be aware of her family history, as 75-80% of people with FAP have multiple family members who were diagnosed with polyps and/or colorectal cancer at age forty years or younger.

There is one available preemptive measure that can be taken if FAP does run in your family. Genetic testing can be done as early as infancy to determine if the mutated gene is present. Parents who are considering this option for their children must be aware of a possible pitfall – if a child is tested and the results are positive, obtaining medical insurance becomes a difficult proposition. This consequence must be weighed against the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your child is free from the medical problems that FAP brings.

In Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy, Amy Martin shares her personal story as someone afflicted with familial adenomatous polyposis. Ms. Martin lost her mother to colon cancer at a relatively young age and she underwent first a partial, and then a full, colectomy to avoid the same fate. Upon reading the first page of Ms. Martin’s book, you realize that FAP is far from her only medical hurdle. The author also had a stroke as a college student, a severe car accident that required extensive rehabilitative therapy, Graves’ disease and gallbladder surgery. It’s an amazing story that provides hope for anyone struggling through life’s many challenges.

Living to Tell About It is the first book written by Amy Martin. It can be purchased through Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and at www.lulu.com.

2008-05-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT Amy Martin
VisitingAngelsNC@aol.com
www.amy-y-martin.blogspot.com

AMY MARTIN’S FIRST BOOK PROVIDES HOPE THROUGH LIFE’S CHALLENGES

Wife, Mother and Caregiver Shares Insights Gained from Amazing Series of Medical and Family Crises

CHARLOTTE, NC – May 23, 2008 – Amy Martin has experienced many medical challenges in a life that has barely spanned forty years, only one of which would have been considered a major health crisis for any person. In her first offering as an author, Ms. Martin lets us into her thoughts as she deals with each new blow to her health, and shares the insights she has gained on facing all of life’s challenges. Her memoir, Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy (ISBN Number: 978-1-4357-1449-6) has just been released.

Amy Martin’s first medical nightmare started at the age of nineteen, when she experienced a stroke upon exiting the pool on her college campus. As she writes in the first chapter, “I came up to the surface and experienced an excruciating pain above my right eye … Little did I know this would be the beginning of a long journey.” As Mrs. Martin shares with the readers, she was an athlete who appeared the picture of health. Who thinks of a teenager as being prone to a stroke while swimming laps in the pool? This striking scenario of the first chapter automatically reminds the reader that nothing in life can be taken for granted.

Living to Tell About It goes on to explain Amy Martin’s struggles with a partial and later a full colectomy, a resulting MRSA infection, head trauma from a severe car accident followed by intensive and lengthy physical therapy, Graves’ disease, gallbladder surgery and the death of her mother. Amy’s story unfolds in a chronological fashion, meeting the readers during her freshman year at North Carolina State and bringing us to her current life nearly twenty years later as wife and mother of two sons. Ms. Martin currently serves as the Director of Visiting Angels, a senior home care agency, in her home state.

Martin will discuss the release of Living to Tell about it, A Pursuit of Normalcy as a guest on Writers in the Sky Podcast (WITS). The online show about writing, publishing and marketing books provides information about the industry to book lovers and writers alike. Amy Martin employed Writers in the Sky to assist with the process of preparing and publishing her memoir, and will discuss this working relationship during her interview with host Sarah Moore. Martin’s interview is scheduled for May 23, 2008 and will be available for download on iTunes as well as from http://yvonneperry.blogspot.com, where many other shows are also archived.

Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy can be purchased through Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, and www.lulu.com or by request at your favorite bookstore.

A Review of My Book!

2008-05-12T21:20:00.000-07:00

Book Title: Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy
Author: Amy Y. Martin
ISBN Number: 978-1-4357-1449-6
Publisher: LuLu.com
Genre and Target Market: memoir; women; personal medical issues
Publication Date: 2008 Book Length in Pages: 149
_____________________________
When young men and women leave for college, they anticipate the newfound freedoms and responsibilities that will come with life away from home. Like all teenagers, Amy Martin likely felt invincible as she prepared to take on the world. However, in her first endeavor as an author, Mrs. Martin shares with her readers an amazing series of health crises that took her down roads she never could have anticipated. Her story is one of strength and survival, and her determination to live a normal life leaves each reader as her personal cheerleader.

Amy Martin’s first medical nightmare started at the age of nineteen when she experienced a stroke upon exiting the pool on her college campus. As she writes in the first chapter, “I came up to the surface and experienced an excruciating pain above my right eye … Little did I know this would be the beginning of a long journey.” As Mrs. Martin shares with the readers, she was an athlete who appeared the picture of health. Who thinks of a teenager as being prone to a stroke while swimming laps in the pool? This striking scenario of the first chapter automatically reminds the reader that nothing in life can be taken for granted.

Living to Tell About It goes on to explain Amy Martin’s struggles with a partial and later a full colectomy, a resulting MRSA infection, head trauma from a severe car accident followed by intensive and lengthy physical therapy, Graves’ disease, gallbladder surgery and the death of her mother. Amy’s story unfolds in a chronological fashion, meeting the readers during her freshman year at North Carolina State and bringing us to her current life nearly twenty years later as wife and mother of two sons.

While brief explanations of the diseases are given and resources are provided for those who wish to learn more about each condition, details about Graves’ disease or colon cancer is not the focus of the book. I do not believe the author ever intended to thoroughly inform us of the specifics surrounding each medical crisis that she experienced, as a much longer book would have been needed to do each episode justice!

Instead, the most compelling aspect of Martin’s book is the sense the reader gets of her unending battles to keep her body and mind healthy. As each page is turned, Martin experiences a new, unexplainable symptom or prepares for another surgery. She makes us feel the exhaustive repetition with which each new hurdle was met and conquered. As I progressed through each chapter, I kept reminding myself, “This is all actually happening to one person!” Just when you think you will get a chance to take a deep breath and enjoy a sense of normalcy with Mrs. Martin, another episode knocks you out of complacency.

I am drawn to how relatable Amy Martin becomes through the course of her memoir. Through all of the compelling problems of surgeries gone awry and life-threatening infections, Mrs. Martin uses ordinary details to help us feel connected to her extraordinary life. The sports store where she met her high school boyfriend, the time she played hooky from physical therapy to enjoy some chocolate and a soap opera, the songs played at her wedding–all of these moments could be written by us or the people we love.

Amy Martin has a casual, storytelling style with her writing that makes her approachable to the reader. We are introduced to her parents, her boyfriends and eventual husband and the healthcare workers who were integral players in her recovery. She takes the time to proudly share the military service of her father and grandfather and still feels an amazing bond to a therapist with whom she has had no contact in years. Through Mrs. Martin’s emphasis on the other people in her life, she reminds us that relationships are tested and strengthened when tragedy strikes. None of these illnesses is faced in a vacuum.

The first offering by Amy Martin, Living to Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy is an amazing story of faith, family and survival. By getting to know Amy, I am now drawn to learn more about the various conditions she has endured through her life. It is obvious that the author has a passion for the care and well-being of others, and has offered her story as testimony to others who may be feeling despondent over their own life situations. As she tells us, she will never return to “normal” but she spends each day working towards the general sense of normalcy. With the many trials she has faced in this process, I am certain that Amy Martin has more powerful stories to share through her writing in the future.

Podcast Interview - Coming SOON

2008-05-11T19:32:00.001-07:00

Just a note to let you know that my podcast interview with Writers In the Sky will be posted in a couple of weeks.

In the meantime, please stay tuned for upcoming appearances, booksignings and more book information.

Interested in purchasing my book? CLICK HERE

Feel free to contact me by clicking HERE.

Here are some shots of my family

Living To Tell About It, A Pursuit of Normalcy - A Memoir

2008-05-11T19:05:00.001-07:00