Author Interview Maggie Bushway: Memoir writing, Advice for Parents, and the Joys of a Weighted Blanket

Summary

In this conversation, Maggie Bushway shares her experiences as a child with brain cancer and the impact it had on her life, family, and friendships. She discusses the importance of autonomy in medical decisions, the role of writing in processing emotions, and the challenges of managing chronic illness while pursuing her passion for writing. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of friendship during illness, the journey of writing a memoir, and the balance between social life and work amidst health challenges.

Takeaways

Maggie felt included in her medical decisions, which empowered her.

Autonomy is crucial for children facing health challenges.

Friendship can provide both support and normalcy during illness.

Writing serves as a powerful tool for emotional expression.

Reading her father's blog helped Maggie process her past.

Maggie's early writing experiences laid the foundation for her memoir.

Journaling can be a helpful starting point for aspiring writers.

Managing chronic illness requires careful scheduling and prioritization.

Finding humor in difficult situations can aid in coping.

Creative expression can take many forms, including fiction. 

Keywords

Maggie Bushway, childhood illness, memoir, writing, chronic illness, friendship, family dynamics, emotional processing, creative expression, support

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