This story, my story, was not one that I imagined would ever be put into words on paper. Rather, I believed it was enough to have lived it; at times, even living it was more than I could bear. I did not foresee this written version. Had I done so, I would have remembered more ... or less. Therefore, I am calling this 'fiction' based on fact. I will, for effect and constraints of time and paper, condense some incidents. For privacy and legal necessity, I will change some names. But, this is my story, my life, here on these pages for all to see: family, friends, enemies, acquaintances, peers, and my unknown readers.