Widow Maker— The Healing Power of Poetry

When my husband—Al Bartholet—had 5 cardiac arrests in June 2015, I did not know that his/our journey would become a book of poems. I say that—even though I immediately began to write about his/our experiences.

I also did not realize that Widow Maker would become a book that could help others navigate the treacherous journey that is a cardiac arrest.

And, yet, that wonderful outcome is exactly what is occurring, thanks to a generous gift from a visionary who worked with the Summa Foundation to purchase copies of Widow Maker to distribute—for free—to caregivers and their loved ones who are or have been patients in the hospital’s cardiac care unit and rehabilitation centers in Akron and Barberton (Ohio).

There is something deeply satisfying about assembling a collection of poems and, then, having a press (in my case, Finishing Line Press) accept that collection for publication. The process of acceptance to book-in-hand is rather lengthy (Widow Maker was accepted in December 2020; I received my copies on July 29, 2021), and involves multiple proofreadings, creation of a cover (thanks to Kent State University graduates Meredith Balogh and R.E. Anderson for, once again, co-creating a stunning cover!), gathering of blurbs (thanks to Poets Jessica Jewell and Barbara Sabol...and Ohio Beat Poet Laureate John Burroughs), and many other little details. But, for me, it has been worth the work and wait to hold this book in my hands.

Another unexpected bonus was going to the Summa Foundation in Akron to sign 300 copies of my book—copies that will be given to people who are in need of compassion and support as they walk a path that my husband and I walked six years ago. I feel such overwhelming gratitude for the vision of giving this book away and hope with all my heart that it will help.

Here’s to the healing power of poetry!