The Critics Have Spoken…
David Quiroa, Exec. Director of Cranston Dept of Senior Services says:
“On Tuesday, September 24th in collaboration with the Cranston Public Library and Blue Cross Blue Shield of R.I. we were honored to host a local author, Colleen Kelly Mellor. I have to say that this presentation by Ms. Mellor has been by far the most insightful and heartwarming depictions of what a caregiver goes through on the journey of lessening the impact of memory loss on a loved one, while trying to remain sane and healthy in the process. Colleen Kelly Mellor not only touched a chord, but she also touched everyone’s hearts and souls during her presentation. She made it about us, the caregivers!”
Maria Rondeau, Health & Wellness Coordinator, Cranston Department of Senior Services adds: (Mellor’s talk was…) “An insightful presentation… Sharing her life and how she arrived at where she is today was incredibly moving. How she has met each of her challenges head on is extraordinary. Her practical tips are eye openers for any caregiver. Her presentation should be heard not only by caregivers but by everyone. She is truly a role model on coping skills!”
The Public’s Reaction to my Talk:
- Exeter Town Councilman Cal Ellis: “Your presentation was very effective and engaging. Kudos to you for your candor and sincerity.”
- Former Prov Journal Op-Ed columnist, Daniel Harrington, says: “A Wonderful presentation…sublimely important and yet so engaging!”
- Margaret Voit, former West Warwick High School graduate (and one who ‘loved my Dad,’ her principal): “Wonderful presentation!! Keep it going!!”
- Lynne Holden says “I hope you can come to Johnston Senior Center.”
- Former Cranston school principal, Linda Casey, describes “a stellar presentation.”
- Ann M. Harper-Sheriff offers: “You brought tears to my eyes. You were brilliant.”
- JoAnn Lovett adds: “Congratulations! This is good work and so necessary…As a fellow retired Cranston teacher, I am so proud of you for the good and much-needed work you are doing. God Bless!”
- Sandra Nolette says: “I enjoyed your presentation Tuesday night.”
- Rebecca Nero says: “Such an important book, needed by many!”
- Christine Testoni says: “I got your book and I can’t put it down!”
*** My intent is to go everywhere with my message, saving Caregivers from mistakes I made. My book, Az and Me: A Partner’s Journey with Alzheimer’s is easy-to-read and ‘enjoyable’ (according to others). The “chapters” are super-short and I share our experiences and offer tips and suggestions to make your life easier. The mix of my poetry (some are downright funny), photos and texts is ‘refreshing’ according to Dr. Norman Gordon, former Head of Neurology at Miriam Hospital. Three Top RI Docs recommend my book, along with a host of others.
Az and Me: A Partner’s Journey with Alzheimer’s…5 stars on Amazon’s Best Sellers’ List.
Colleen Kelly Mellor, author of 4 books and articles that appeared in the WSJ, AP, and World News, is a former feature writer and monthly Op-Ed columnist for the Providence Journal. As a professional speaker, Colleen has gone before the Association of RI Women Professors; she’s given a Ted Talk at Salve Regina and she has appeared as guest on podcasts and TV shows. She now goes before audiences, inspiring them as to how they can survive—and even THRIVE—despite life’s difficult challenges.
colleenkellymellor.com
**On my website above, read ProJo columnist Mark Patinkin’s front pg story on Paul and my late-in-life marriage at 83 (he) and 78 (me). Book link is there, too.