Modern Athenas

We chose Susan Spencer-Wendel as a Modern Athena because in the face of a diagnosis of a terminal illness (ALS), she chose to live a life of joy, building memories, making special moments, and surrounding herself with her family and friends. Susan also took a special trip with each of her children, and with each of her close friends. Knowing her illness’ destructive path, she chose to embrace life rather than allow the illness to control her. She was, in every way, a pillar of strength and courage. This podcast is about her trips, her journeys inward, and her year of finding peace. INDEX00:00 Intro and Background of the Book01:53 ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)09:29 Decision to Travel12:17 Space Shuttle Launch16:17 The Yukon and the Northern Lights22:15 Susan’s Mother, Facing Death27:37 Christmas31:57 Chickee Hut36:32 John, Her Husband41:09 Steph, Her Sister47:47 The Children’s Trips50:58 Scrapbooking55:00 Writing the Book and the Close57:49 Outro an