MEET THE AUTHOR
COLLEEN
Colleen is an editor and the author of In the Hands of a Fiercely Tender God and the children’s book on suffering, Out of the Shadow World (to be released early 2023). She enjoys dark-dark chocolate, side-splitting laughter, and half-read books piled bedside. She makes her home near Boise, Idaho, with her husband Eddie, their son Jeremy, and Willow the dog.
Writing Workshop this January
I’ve officially been off treatment for a couple of months, and I couldn’t be more grateful. This extended break has given me a chance to
To chemo or not to chemo?
When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017, I was adamantly againstchemotherapy and resolved to heal myself with the help of an alternative
A story for kids (especially those who are hurting)
Several years ago I wrote a story for my son whose world had been turned upside-down by both chronic illness and my first cancer diagnosis.
Cancer Updates 2023
September 21 (This was a brief update I posted on Instagram…) Okay, I’ve guzzled two cups of organic black decaf low-acid mold-free coffee and am
A few thoughts on weakness…
Some days I resent not being further along in my growth and maturity. I wish I didn’t have such deep and long fault lines, such
Aging for the good of others
I grew up on the doorstep of Hollywood and Orange County, the beauty capitals of the world. When out-of-state friends visited, they were stunned by
Why hasn’t God healed me?
I used to think suffering was meant to teach me lessons—hard but good life lessons—and as soon as I learned what God wanted me to
Dear Younger Self
Dear Younger Self—I know it’s cliché,But I would go back if I couldTo say: Make yourself small,Don’t resent being weak—Humility before GodWill set you free.
Let's keep in touch
Newsletters and updates from my heart to your inbox
Our cancer journey
If you know me, you’ve heard me say again and again, “Cancer doesn’t have the corner on the market of suffering.” Nor does cancer define
Merciful undoing
September 29, 2006 You use pain so wisely,With infinite care,Knowing right whereTo push and pull and tearAnd break and burnUntil I’ve finally learnedWith all my
Mystery
June 14, 2022 Mystery— Living in theIn-betweenThe unknownThe not-yet Shadow, substanceLong and shortHandspan, breath…Infinite Holding on andLetting goOpen handedLingering Fragile, fearfulUnmoved, strongLaughing joyBitter drink Hoping
