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"Alan Birkelbach, Texas Poet Laureate" Sometimes we don't know how strong we are until we are asked to survive a horrific thing. In "Sometimes You Have to Laugh" Marilyn Stacy gives a realistic, and still poetic, voice to the cancer experience. Her words, full of optimism and hope, will speak to not only the person afflicted with the disease--but also to anyone associated with those people: the doctors, the families, the friends. Marilyn lets us know we do not have to suffer alone and she tells us we can all be survivors. With unfailing courage, unblinking honesty, and practical advice Marilyn shows us the terrifying way onto the cancer path, the grueling journey, and the glorious destination. This is a personal book that transcents the personal experience, a book that will inspire and give hope. It ends up belonging to everyone involved in the cancer battle. It will enlightn you, embrace you, and lift you up.
(Reprinted from back cover)

"Sometimes You Have to Laugh: A Poet's Look at Cancer" Small is often beautiful, and in this small book of poems and sage advice, the reader finds Stacy's beauty, grace and courage. The deep bonds and connections between family, friends, and nature are the core of Stacy's strength and ability to live through her situation with honesty and hope. I bought copies for all of my friends; what a great gift!

"Sometimes You Have to Laugh: A Poet's Look at Cancer by Marilyn Stacy" Broaching a subject most women find so frightening, Marilyn Stacy in her book Sometimes You Have to Laugh has given glimpses of the emotional turmoil that comes with a dreaded disease along with bits of humor. Far from withdrawing from society and hiding her illness, in her poems she has revealed innermost feelings some in her position might have feared were too personal and has provided straightforward guidance for those undergoing chemotherapy and their loved ones who stand by them, tips for a day-to-day journey through an abyss and then out again. Her prevailing spirit shows us that bad sometimes comes but is often followed by good. The acknowledgement of family caring and support is heartwarming and inspires me to be more grateful for my own family.

"Sometimes You Have to Laugh: A Poet's Look at Cancer" A few years ago we talked about breast cancer and the terrible threat it posed in whispers. Now, poet Marilyn Stacy has written this uplifting account of her breast cancer experiences in clear, lucid, form. Without ignoring the "down" aspects of breast cancer, she has managed to give the reader an appreciation of the positive approach she has taken on her journey through this dreaded experience. In addition to these very reader-friendly poems, Marilyn also gives excellent commentary in the form of helpful suggestions to cancer patients. The reader will laugh and cry along with the poet. Buy this book!

"An immensely honest book" If you have cancer or just know someone who has it, and whether you think you like poetry or not, you need to read this book.

Marilyn's plain-spoken matter-of-factness about her journey through the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer is proof that attitude makes a difference. And she does it without being maudlin or whining or being a Pollyanna. I'm impressed!

I found myself smiling, laughing, tearing up and appreciating the information and encouragement found in these pages. My brother is going through chemo for colon cancer, and now I understand better what is involved.

Most of Marilyn's poems are short, but OH! the impact they make.