An Interview with AJ Wyman on his Upcoming Memoir, The Grace to Carry On
In "The Grace to Carry On," AJ Wyman shares his profound experiences as a father navigating his daughter Emma’s aggressive cancer diagnosis. Emma, diagnosed with undifferentiated sarcoma, faced life-threatening complications during her treatment, leading Wyman to struggle with his mental health. His inability to cope resulted in a near-fatal substance addiction, which he addresses openly in the memoir. Wyman stresses the importance of caregiver self-care, stating, “You still have to care for yourself even when caring for others. ” Scheduled for release on September 1, the book serves as a cautionary tale aimed at social workers, oncologists, and caregivers.
Wyman’s narrative is not just about his daughter’s battle with cancer; it also reflects his journey to recovery and understanding. He hopes to promote communication and openness regarding mental health challenges faced by caregivers. Writing the memoir has allowed Wyman to release pent-up emotions and find relief after a decade of reflection.