Darla A. Calvet is the spirited author behind My Life in Stitches: A Heart Transplant Survivor Story whose life changed forever with a diagnosis of congestive heart failure. In her book, readers are in for an inspirational journey of their own. Beyond her role as an author, Darla balances a career in grant writing for nonprofits, and cherishing moments with her family.
In this interview we get the opportunity to ask some questions and learn about Darla’s inspiration behind the book, from her poignant survival, humble beginnings, and to the surprising reach of her transplant journey beyond anticipated audiences.
Can you tell us a little about the process of getting this book published? How did you come up with the idea and how did you start?
After I survived my heart transplant surgery, I immediately wanted to help others on this path. I attended a Writer’s Conference in Los Angeles and learned about the different publishing options. I liked the Acorn Publishing approach, so I went with them. They have been great and I’m happy with the results.
What surprised you most about getting your book published?
I think I was most surprised that the general population would be interested in my heart transplant journey. I thought the book would have a niche market with other patients, but it appears that everyone seems to be interested in it.
Tell us a little about what you do when you aren’t writing.
I do work as a grant writer for nonprofits and own a boutique consulting business. It is a nice balance with my writing career. I also hang out with my French Bulldog Quinnie and my husband Pat.
As a published author, what would you say was the most pivotal point of your writing life?
First, publishing my dissertation for my PhD. Second, getting accepted as an author with Acorn Publishing LLC.
Where do you get your best ideas and why do you think that is?
Usually when I wake up in the morning. I must give great coffee the honors for getting my brain going.
What is the toughest criticism given to you as an author?
When I first started writing, I joined a writer’s group with some cranky old men who wrote westerns. They did not understand my message or purpose in writing my transplant memoir. They seemed bored and uninterested in the book, which hurt me greatly. I kept going anyway!
What has been your best accomplishment as a writer?
Getting a five star review with my debut book, My Life in Stitches.
How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?
None at present but I am about to begin my next book soon. It’s addicting!
Did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?
Yes, but I usually write from firsthand experience. If I decide to write fiction, I will probably use a pseudonym.
Does your family support your career as a writer?
Yes, but I have always been working at other jobs full-time while writing. Some of my occupational roles have required that I am a writer.
If you could invite any three people for dinner, who would you invite?
Mel Brooks, Rosalind Russell, and Stephen Spielberg. Mel Brooks for his creative genius and social commentary, Rosalind Russell for her daring acting and breaking the mold on female roles in Hollywood and Stephen Spielberg for his creative genius.
If you could be mentored by a famous author, who would it be?
No doubt, it would be David Sedaris. I love his memoir-based books and the humor he brings to ghastly situations.
Where can our readers purchase your book?
It debuted on Amazon on December 12, 2023.
Thanks!
Find the author
My Life in Stitches: A Heart Transplant Survivor Story
Darla Calvet is a thirty-nine-year-old working mom whose life turns upside down when she is diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Suddenly, fear threatens her dreams for the future as doctors’ appointments replace her daily routines and she realizes she may not live to see her daughters grow up. After dying twice while waiting for a new heart, Darla begins to understand her own resiliency—her heart may be weak, but her mind refuses to give up.
My Life in Stitches: A Heart Transplant Survivor Story is a candid, witty account of one woman’s determination to transform a devastating prognosis into an inspiring fight for survival. Darla’s story offers insight into the complex world of medicine with a dose of humor about her challenges and victories as a heart transplant patient.
In this sensitive, thorough, and informative debut, Calvet brings compassion and gentle wisdom to a difficult subject in hopes of demystifying the uncertainties that inevitably accompany long-term, life-threatening medical decisions.
Purchase My Life in Stitches
