On Poetry & Schizophrenia

Via the MEDSOC listserv, I learned of an opportunity for medical humanities programs to host Pam Spiro Wagner, who is about to publish a new book of poems:

Pam is an award-winning poet, and is one of the best writers I know. Pam's poetry addresses the usual range of topics, as well as addressing her decades-long battle with schizophrenia. She also co-authored an acclaimed memoir a couple of years ago.

Pam is about to publish a book of poems, and is eager to arrange speaking engagements (regarding either or both books). Because she lives on Social Security Disability, she can't earn more than $700 per month, so while an honorarium would be nice, it's not essential.  She would, however, need airfare and lodging. Also, her doctor requires that she travel with a companion, who needs about $250/day
to cover loss of income.

Here's a link to her poetry book:
http://www.amazon.com/Climb-Shaky-Ladders-Laurel-Books/dp/1933880104/ref=pd_rhf_p_t_1 

Pam can send sample poems to anyone who is interested. Her email
address appears below.

Pam's bio:

A writer who lives with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, Pamela Spiro Wagner graduated magna cum laude from Brown University and attended medical school for one year. Despite having spent at least eight years of her life in psychiatric units, she has won many awards, including a First Place in the 2001/2 International Poetry Competition sponsored by the BBC World Service. In 2005, she co-authored, with her twin sister, a psychiatrist, Divided Minds: Twin Sisters and their Journey through Schizophrenia (St Martin's

Press, 2005), which won the national NAMI Outstanding Literature Award and was a finalist for the Connecticut Book Award. Her work has appeared in the New York Times Sunday Magazine, LA Weekly and Tikkun among other places. Born in Washington, Wagner has lived most of her life in Connecticut.

Her email address is pamwagg@cox.net