In a world where resilience in life’s most profound challenges can change everything, Darla A. Calvet is a great example of this determination. Darla is the author of My Life in Stitches: A Heart Transplant Survivor Story, which was just recently released on December 12, 2023. She invites readers into her world, and her memoir celebrates the triumph of the human spirit.
Darla’s journey began with an unexpected diagnosis of congestive heart failure, this of course changed her life. Despite all of the reasonable fears that may arise, she refused to despair. Doctor’s appointments, the harrowing wait for a new heart, near death experiences–through all of this she discovered a strength within herself.
In this interview, Darla graciously shares the moments that led to her book’s creation. From the decision to chronicle her experiences to the surprising reception from a broader audience, she shares the surprises, challenges, and joys encountered on her publishing journey.
Can you tell us a little about the process of getting this book published? How did you come up with the idea and how did you start?
After I survived my heart transplant surgery, I immediately wanted to help others on this path. I attended a Writer’s Conference in Los Angeles and learned about the different publishing options. I liked the Acorn Publishing approach, so I went with them. They have been great and I’m happy with the results.
What surprised you most about getting your book published?
I think I was most surprised that the general population would be interested in my heart transplant journey. I thought the book would have a niche market with other patients, but it appears that everyone seems to be interested in it.
Tell us a little about what you do when you aren’t writing.
I do work as a grant writer for nonprofits and own a boutique consulting business. It is a nice balance with my writing career. I also hang out with my French Bulldog Quinnie and my husband Pat.
As a published author, what would you say was the most pivotal point of your writing life?
First, publishing my dissertation for my PhD. Second, getting accepted as an author with Acorn Publishing LLC.
Where do you get your best ideas and why do you think that is?
Usually when I wake up in the morning. I must give great coffee the honors for getting my brain going.
What is the toughest criticism given to you as an author?
When I first started writing, I joined a writer’s group with some cranky old men who wrote westerns. They did not understand my message or purpose in writing my transplant memoir. They seemed bored and uninterested in the book, which hurt me greatly. I kept going anyway!
What has been your best accomplishment as a writer?
Getting a five star review with my debut book, My Life in Stitches.
How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?
None at present but I am about to begin my next book soon. It’s addicting!
If you had to compare this book to any other book out there, which book would it be?
I would compare it to books like Cancer Schmancer by Fran Drescher, although I am not a celebrity. I liked her funny way of dealing with a very unfunny diagnosis and survival, so I tried to model that style in my book.
Who is your target audience?
The original target audience for this book was transplant patients. I have now expanded this to anyone dealing with a chronic illness/diagnosis and their medical teams and families. Really, I think anyone would be inspired by this book. It is a “rising from the ashes” type of story.
Tell us about your most rewarding experience since publishing your work.
My most rewarding experience was showing the book to the medical team who saved my life. They have so many tough things to deal with at the hospital that it made them all smile and have a moment of happiness. That meant the world to me, since there is really no way I can repay them for saving my life.
Are your characters pure fiction, or did you draw from people you know?
They are all real people.
What do you hope to accomplish with your book other than selling it?
If I help one other patient to deal with the ominous road to transplant, I will be happy.
Where can our readers purchase your book?
It debuted on Amazon on December 12, 2023!
Thanks!
Find the author
My Life in Stitches: A Heart Transplant Survivor Story
Darla Calvet is a thirty-nine-year-old working mom whose life turns upside down when she is diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Suddenly, fear threatens her dreams for the future as doctors’ 
appointments replace her daily routines and she realizes she may not live to see her daughters grow up. After dying twice while waiting for a new heart, Darla begins to understand her own resiliency—her heart may be weak, but her mind refuses to give up.
My Life in Stitches: A Heart Transplant Survivor Story is a candid, witty account of one woman’s determination to transform a devastating prognosis into an inspiring fight for survival. Darla’s story offers insight into the complex world of medicine with a dose of humor about her challenges and victories as a heart transplant patient.
In this sensitive, thorough, and informative debut, Calvet brings compassion and gentle wisdom to a difficult subject in hopes of demystifying the uncertainties that inevitably accompany long-term, life-threatening medical decisions.
