Another letter from a reader of The Ditchdigger’s Daughters

Written by yvonnethornton on July 29th, 2009

It always moves me to hear from readers that my book inspired them. But I’m amazed that I’m still getting such letters, 14 years after The Ditchdigger’s Daughters was first published.

Here are a few excerpts from what a young nursing/pre-med student named Maria, who said that my book changed her life, wrote me:

“I read your book last summer The Ditchdigger’s Daughters and I have wanted to email you for so long but I have been so busy with school full-time and working part-time. But I really want you to know that I admire you so much. My dream is to become a pediatrician, take care of children, and to encourage them, especially young girls, that they can become whatever they want, to never give up, have faith in God, and believe in themselves. I have three sisters and three brothers and my parents have really sacrificed a lot to make sure we could all go to college. Financially it has been difficult and for a while I even contemplated not going to med school because it was so costly …


“I will be graduating with honors and then enroll at The College of William & Mary to finish my pre-med courses… I love to read and I am truly blessed to have come upon your book.”

Hearing from people like Maria is especially gratifying because I know how difficult it is to keep such a dream in sight when money is tight.

I’ve heard from so many readers over the years. I can’t tell you what it means, knowing that my book helped someone get through difficult moments. What I can say to Maria and others is, I’ve been there. I know it’s tough. Keep going. You’ll make it. And when you do, you’ll inspire others.

– Yvonne S. Thornton, MD, MPH

 

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