I am delighted to have the chance for this brief email interview with Alan Kalmanoff, a brilliant writer, an attorney, a recipient of a heart transplant, and the author of Second Ticket To The Dance. If you haven't read the complete book review from the last article, please click HERE.
I highly recommend this book!

Sincerely,
Cara Newman, Bella Online Editor

What inspired you to write this book?
A heart transplant changes everything, especially if you were ready to die; I was ready, and saved by the bell, propelled into a wonderful second life. The thoughts, feelings, changes and growth in philosophy; the ways of thinking, and the surrounding events, all called strongly for expression as a story, a message to friends and the world, and a way of processing the enormity of it all. The book called upon me to be written, and forced its way into my schedule, and new heart.

Perhaps the writing became another inspiration, as I started to wonder if I could write books, and perhaps work at something new in the distant future when I might have to retire from consulting.

How has your life changed since the publication of this book?
Well, I’m not sure the book changed my life, but it is an awareness that is new; being an author has its own inner satisfaction, and sometimes I find myself telling strangers, so it must be part of my identity now.

What I love most about your writing is your honesty and a sense of connection. I think it is very difficult for any of us to go through serious health challenges alone. Besides writing the “nightwires” and the great support from your friends and family, what were other factors that contributed to your successful recovery and strong optimism throughout the entire process?
I had such a lucky and in many ways satisfying life that I was ready to let it go as complete, and yet, without the stress of a fear or dying, I guess I was clear and focused and hungry to go on.

Through your writing, it is apparent that fatherhood is a very important part of your life. How has the experience of your health crisis and heart transplant brought your closer to your girls?
I couldn’t be closer but I do feel the heart transplant impacted my kids for the better as they appreciate the tiny moment between life and death quite well for their ages, and are highly respectful of all life. I worried that they’d be marked by the anxiety and guilt of daddy catching their cold, but it seems they’re used to my immune suppression.

Video: Triana's Christmas Gift to Kal

Besides what’s already presented in the book, is there anything else you like to say to your readers?
Well, now that it’s written and I’ve learned a lot from the reactions of others, including your very thoughtful comments, I guess I feel more inclined to recommend to others, a book that might help them live a better life.

To read the complete book review, please click HERE

Editor's Recommendation