My Life in Stitches: A Heart Transplant Survivor Story is author Darla A. Calvet’s debut book, the story of her journey and survival in a matter of life or death. From triumphs on the ballroom dance floor to leading Blue Tiger Inc. in strategic planning, Dr. Darla A. Calvet’s life brims with accomplishments. She not only survived a heart transplant but emerged victorious, embodying resilience in every step she takes. Her academic pursuits include a Doctorate in Education from Claremont Graduate University, complemented by degrees from San Diego State University and the University of California, Berkeley. Nestled in San Diego, California, Darla finds solace in the company of her husband Pat, their cherished French Bulldog, Quinn, and proudly raises two daughters, Claire and Annie. Read on to learn more about Darla A. Calvet’s journey, as well as her debut book My Life in Stitches!
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.
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.
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!
How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?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!
If you had to compare this book to any other book out there, which book would it be?
I would compare it to books like Cancer Schmancer by Fran Drescher, although I am not a celebrity. I liked her funny way of dealing with a very unfunny diagnosis and survival, so I tried to model that style in my book.
Who is your target audience?
The original target audience for this book was transplant patients. I have now expanded this to anyone dealing with a chronic illness/diagnosis and their medical teams and families. Really, I think anyone would be inspired by this book. It is a “rising from the ashes” type of story.
Tell us about your most rewarding experience since publishing your work?
My most rewarding experience was showing the book to the medical team who saved my life. They have so many tough things to deal with at the hospital that it made them all smile and have a moment of happiness. That meant the world to me, since there is really no way I can repay them for saving my life.
Are you more of a character artist or a plot-driven writer?
More of a plot-drive writer. I am a Virgo, and we like order and rationality.
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, whom 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.
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.
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