Terry Ryan
Visit Terry Ryan's site (if you've not already done so). It's truly inspirational!
http://www.theprizewinner.com/
Sad to say that Terry (Tuff) Ryan passed away in May 2007. From her website -- still quite inspirational:
Dear Readers: After a long bout with cancer, Terry Ryan died peacefully at home on May 16, 2007. She had been buoyed throughout her illness by notes and calls from readers who had just finished reading the book or watching the movie, and couldn't wait to tell her how much they enjoyed it. More than anything, Tuffy Ryan loved to hear people's comments about her prize-winning mother, Evelyn, whose sense of humor and indomitable spirit surfaced so often in Terry's own response to life. After the shock of hearing her diagnosis in November of 2004, for example, Tuff said pensively, "Well, my old life is over, and my new life is just beginning." This is a legacy her fans have the privilege of carrying on every day.
This is the legacy that Evelyn Ryan left her beloved children - to be strong, courageous, and to face whatever challenges life dealt them. Despite her cruel and debilitating illness, Terry never once gave in to self-pity, and always had time for others. I have never met anyone quite like her before. Like her mother Evelyn, what a great example of spiritual strength. It's so sad she's no longer with us.
shareI offer my gratitude to Terry Ryan in memoriam for bringing such an enriching and honest story to the world, and condolences to all those who loved her.
"It is not enough for parents to understand their children. They must accord children the privilege of understanding them." ~~~M.R. Sapirstein