Because Brenda Novak’s son has diabetes, about ten years ago, she started an auction to raise money for diabetes research. I’ve donated either a basket or books or a critique for most of those years.
I’m diabetic as well, but type 2. There are differences between the causes of each although it’s the spiking blood sugar that is a symptom of both types. I’m fully aware that research into the cure for type 1–what used to be called juvenile diabetes–may not help us older folks at all.
But I do know there is no cure. Insulin brings blood sugar down but insulin also causes weight gain which starts a cycle of weight gain, higher doses of insulin, weight gain, etc. And complications arise: damage to eyes, kidneys, heart, etc. In fact. a person with diabetes is treated as if he or she has already had one heart attack.
This year, I’m donating a basket with items from Butternut Creek and signed copies of the first two books in the series. 
Hard to see all the goodies in this picture, but go to the site and there’s a listing. If you don’t bid on my basket, keep browsing. There’s a lot of good stuff. You’ll find something!
http://brendanovak.auctionanything.com/Bidding.taf?_function=detail&Auction_uid1=2446091
May 27, 2012-It’s A Twitter Party!!!!
Brenda Novak’s Online Auction For Diabetes Research will be having a final Twitter Party on May 27, 2012 at 1:00 PM PST hosted by Julie Rowe from Carina Press and will last until 2:00 PM PST. One lucky tweeter who uses the hashtag #bnda during the hour will receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card. Be sure to follow @bnovakauction to be part of the Twitter Party. More details to follow.
I’ve always dreamed of being a writer. Since being a volunteer on the auction and seeing all the fantastic items that have been donated for writers I’ve made up an imaginary wish list of items if I were to live out my dream as a writer. I thought I’d share that with you: The Complete Author Package Book Collection from COOL GUS PUBLISHING (Bob Mayer & Jen Tatly) (Current Bid: $34), Contract Review from Agent Marisa A. Corvisiero of Corvisiero Literary Agency (A) (Current Bid: $67), Submissions Workshop (3 Weeks Online) POLISH YOUR PARTIAL SUBMISSION from Document Driven (Current Bid: $30), NEW!!! Lawson Writer’s Academy: Ten Online Classes! Donated by Margie Lawson ($350-$400 Value!), (Current Bid: $130), First Three Chapters of Your Novel Edited by Document Driven ($420 value!) (Current Bid: $42), Up to 20 HOURS of Consultation Time with Forensic Expert Tom Adair!! ($3500 value!) (Current Bid: $140), “MICROSOFT WORD FOR WRITERS” Workshop Lesson by Catherine Chant, (Current Bid: $35), YOUR BIO (Short!), Written by Donna Erickson of AFLAIRFORWRITING.com (Current Bid: $12). These are all the items I believe I would need to start my career as a writer.
Brenda has decided to put some of the money she normally dedicates to promoting a new book toward her Annual Online Auction for Diabetes Research, so this means great things for those of us who chomp at the bit for her next new book . . .
Anyone who pre-orders WHEN LIGHTNING STRIKES at Amazon or Barnes and Noble BEFORE the end of this month will be entered into Brenda’s Fan Club, which gives you access to the password-protected part of her website and the contests and goodies she makes available there. Plus, you will receive a $10 GIFT CERTIFICATE you can use at the auction toward anything you want!