Thank-you,

Katharine

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It is said that one is only given what one can handle! That may be the understatement of the year for this author who here tells her story, a real life journey through physical illness with its accompanying mental and emotional challenges as well.

For Katharine Kroeker has endured through most of her life the debilitating illness of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis which began when she was five years old. Learning to deal with treatments, medications, several very difficult surgeries, a destructive marital relationship and numerous other accompanying challenges fill these pages with hope. Yes, that's right - I said hope!

For this is a feisty individual who works her way through each challenge and refuses to be daunted into resignation or submission.

It is an accurate account of the medical possibilities for this disease which also offers a different opportunity for anyone else who may be experiencing a similar medical problem.

And it, last but certainly not least, opens a window for those who have no idea of the multiple adversities of this physical disease, added to the normal life challenges everyone experiences.

Katharine Kroeker's life story is educational, calling not for sympathy or even empathy but an inspirational call for meeting adversity with gusty, life-affirming triumph!

Reviewed by Viviane Crystal on April 3, 2005

http://www.crystalreviews.com/index.htm

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Hi Kat

I need to let you know how powerful your first book was to me.  By working together with your Mom, Kat you shared the first part of your life (family and friends) in writing with a mix of sadness, pain, fear, hope and humour. You’re both definitely an inspiration for many people across the board.  My personal opinion is anyone considering entering the medical establishment in any aspect should have to read your book first. Hey maybe you could get our tax dollars to some good use and apply for a grant to implement this. 

While I will never know what it is to walk in your shoes (I think they may be a bit small for me (trust you get the humour in this)), I have spent time in hospital myself and can relate. Through your book, Too Much for One Lifetime, you confirmed to me that when I left the hospital all those years ago, I wasn’t loosing my mind in feeling depressed and fearful. Physiotherapy was another one, and I completely agree Kat, we know our bodies better than anyone else does. 

I waited until I was through, Too Much for One Lifetime, before I opened the package with, Too Many Speed Bumps. I did this on purpose, and when I opened the package today and read your autograph I was so very moved, thank you.

Theresa VanDyk, Vernon, B.C.

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"Here is a story of courage and faith for those who think they've lost their way through a wilderness place."  

Jane Kirkpatrick, Award-winning author. 

www.jkbooks.com

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I liked the book! It was SO informative and very heart wrenching to go through your individual trials and to see, at the end, your optimism and "forward looking" nature. I really appreciated your effort to explain each surgery/injury/etc.

Melanie Luschen, Columbus GA. USA

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I have had the opportunity to read your Bio Kat and I am absolutely amazed with your endurance, strength and courage! As the reader one can clearly imagine that you have indeed been through "too much for one lifetime".   For those of us that are fortunate enough to be blessed with healthy bodies your BIO really helps us to understand (if even a glimpse) of what you have gone through. Congratulations on writing your dream and living your life to the fullest despite your obstacles along the way.  I applaud you for doing what you have always wanted to do.  Many of us don't take on challenges or reach for our dreams.  BRAVO!

Traci Acton, Lumby, BC

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I read your book - WONDERFUL!!  I was so surprised that you could put all that material in it, and not lose a reader in the "details".  Most people trying to write this kind of book would have readers snoring after page 2 - I hated to put the book down to do things during the day - Peter, (my hubby) would catch me picking it up at every spare minute of the day to "read on!"  You DO have a talent, girl!   Well done!  Now, when are we going to have, as Paul Harvey would say, "The rest of the story"???  I want to read it again, and when I have a little more peace and quiet and fewer things on my mind. 

Debbi Renes, South Carolina, USA

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"In every doctors life there comes along an individual who not only inspires you but also makes you humble. Katharine is certainly one fine lady whom we should all hold in the utmost esteem and try to emulate her courage and conviction. Enjoy a great read."

Dr. Robert J. Pye D.D.S., Diploma Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Burlington, Ontario

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"An inspiring book about facing lifes daily challenges, while living with debilitating Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. This book will uplift and help you put lifes problems in perspective."

Dr. Dwayne Hackett, D.C. President of the Lumby & District Chamber of Commerce

Lumby, BC.

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June 7^th 2003

It’s difficult for me to type that I enjoyed this book…because how can you "enjoy" reading about all of the trials and tribulations, pain and suffering that a friend has gone through in her life? How can you enjoy reading about a friend being teased and tormented by other kids and adults alike? How can you enjoy experiencing first hand the pain of her many surgeries?

And yet, I did enjoy the book, because throughout her suffering, Kat maintained a positive attitude. And was always there to help a friend in need. And had a backbone of steel to stand up to people who tried to do her wrong. I also enjoyed reading about her relationship with her mom…which explains their closeness to this day.

I highly recommend reading this book, as inspiration when any of us hits a speedbump in life. Kat’s life was one huge speedbump after another, and yet look at her now…an author, writing not only her memoirs but kid’s books as well…and still with that same positive attitude. Kat, you go girl. I wish you tremendous success with this book, and all books to come.

Susan Woitovich,

Mesa, AZ.

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I received a very special gift today

April 20^th 2003

The post office box lobby is open 24/7, so, on my way to WalMart (which turned out to be closed), I stopped at the post office for some stamps and mail pick-up. There was a locker key in my box so I went to locker #108 and there was an envelope from Kat. I knew her book was in it...I couldn't wait until after WalMart, so I ripped it open in the truck.... I experienced "shivers down my backbone".... there it was in my hands, with a little note from Kat on the inside.... I started to flip through it, reading bits and pieces, recalling them from the editing, and came to the color photos in the center...... that's when I lost it... totally..... I guess during the time I was editing, I kept the emotional aspect of this story at arm's length as much as I could.... but today.... today the dam burst and I just sat there on the post office parking lot with tears running all over the place.... here was someone's long-held dream right in my hands.....that I played a small part in that dream, that I was able to help someone achieve her dream.... it all just overwhelmed me with such a joyful, peaceful feeling. I don't know that I have ever been so happy for someone else...you will have no idea what I 'm talking about unless you buy and read this book.... then you will know.

Edward Munson

Palm Springs, CA.