I have epilepsy. It sucks. I've also been profoundly touched in my life by crime, first as a crime reporter, then working in law enforcement, and most horribly when someone from my own family was murdered.
I grew up always knowing I wanted to be a writer, but with today's climate, breaking into traditional publishing is harder than ever. Which is why I'm going the "indie author" route of electronic and self-publishing. More on that later.
Because I'm not "stuck" in one genre, I can write about what I want. And I want to write fiction and nonfiction. I'm passionate about victims' rights. I want to give people with epilepsy another place to turn. And I'm excited to be part of the indie author movement.
Below are some links to sites I've found useful, including epilepsy sites, crime victims help, and information on publishing your own book.
CRIME VICTIMS:
http://www.pomc.com/ This is for families who have lost a loved one to murder. A very good resource. I've spent a lot of time on this site myself.
http://namus.gov A national clearinghouse of missing and unidentified victims. Police, medical examiners and the general public can search this database for information on missing persons. You can also volunteer your services here.
http://www.heidisearchcenter.com This program is dedicated to preventing child and adult abductions and locating missing persons
by conducting community education programs, advocating
community awareness, facilitating search and location efforts
and offering assistance and referrals to those with missing
loved ones nationwide. I'm proud to say my family is involved in this endeavor.
EPILEPSY:
http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/ This describes different types of seizures and offers various types of help to patients.
http://www.akfus.org The Anita Kaufmann Foundation is the worldwide sponsor of Purple Day, which is about epilepsy awareness. The Foundation is the only organization that's sole goal is to educate the public about epilepsy. I'm and advocate for the Foundation, teaching seizure first-aid, helping with an elementary school program, educating police and the public about seizure types, and more.
WRITING:
http://www.aprillhamilton.com Ms. Hamilton offers a wealth of information for indie writers/publishers on her site, as well as links to other sites.
https://www.createspace.com/ This is one of many sites that will help you self-publish your book. This site is through Amazon, but your book will be available on all digital sites and, if you choose, through print on demand. You can self-publish completely free if you follow the directions in the various guides available.
RESOURCES
TRACY L. KAROL
WRITER'S BUZZ
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The picture above is a sketch my youngest daughter drew for me. I was touched, amazed and brought to tears. The words in the corner say "Just Like Everyone Else - Epilepsy Awareness" - she took it on herself to do this, just as she's taken it upon herself to help raise awareness at her school and start fundraising. Thank you, Ashley. My older two daughters have helped me through my toughest times, driving me to the doctor and for years looking after me while I was seizing. Thank you Maddy and Emily. I love you all. And my husband is my rock; he has literally saved my life. Thank you, Simon.
