“Aunt Sadie Loved a Lady has been accepted to the Barrymore Short Film Festival 2021
You can view the festival here:
bfcfilmfestival.org
Then Please vote for “Aunt Sadie Loved a Lady”
Most current review of “My Journey as an AIDS Nurse” Marie Sanchez Bristol, CT (These reviews are not altered)
Hey guys I don’t know if you read the book My Journey as an AIDS Nurse or not. But let me tell you, I didn’t think it would be as uplifting a read as it was, at first I couldn’t understand why different stories jumped from one year back to another and back again, but if you think about it, do you ever remember things in order? I know when I think about my life and things that happened to me from when I was born up till now, I don’t always remember them all at the same time, for example something that happened yesterday I would write down and then I would think about something that happened 20 years ago and I would put that down and then as I’m thinking about what to write I remember something that happened last week so I put that down also, so the timestamps never wind up in the order they would normally be. It’s like flashbacks of you life. If you think about it, that’s what makes this book so interesting, because you see inside the mind of the writer, how he flashbacks from different periods of his life and how interesting they are. They are funny, sad, loving, heartbreaking, Inspirational, scary, and a big time tear jerker, lump in your throat kind of feeling at times. As you get into it you can’t put the book down, You see, you’ll wanna read what happened next and how it was handled or what the outcome was or would be. For instance the story on page 39 Here Comes the Son, That one was truly a tearjerker, lump in your throat read, I won’t tell you what it was about, you’ll have to read it for yourself. As I reference different pages and stories I will give you some of how I felt and alittle bit about the story without without telling you what happened so that you can read it for yourself. I love the readers humor, for example on page 41, lines 9,10, and 11 when he has some trouble getting 2 girls to be his patients. That was quite humorous. Then there’s page 42 lines 5 and 6, Though the writer I call Dom didn’t seem to think so by his reaction/statement, I thought it was quite sweet and was like aww. Then you have the story like on page 44 how most of the read is sad, but then you come to a line that makes you laugh inside. He really knows how to keep you intrigued. Page 47 of Missed Diagnosed, shows how if you have a caring teacher you will flourish. Unlike If you have a nurse/person that is hard and uncaring. In the beginning If this story I was P-Oed On what this one nurse said to Dom, but as I read on, I learned everything truly does happen for a reason, as the end of that story was awesome. In order for the end to be awesome he had to go through the messed up part in the beginning. Page 51 of Up Up and Away, Dominick asks what could he possibly do in Aids Care? As we all feel helpless in certain situations, we got to remember why we did what we did or do what we do. Dominick got into nursing to help people and maybe even save people, though he was losing a lot of friends to this dreadful disease, he got to see that all he’s doing/done for them, is saving them, maybe not always physically but definitely mentally and he’s making their lives a lot more comfortable and peaceful being there for them and doing the things he does/did for them. The day before Ben’s death, if it wasn’t for Dom, Ben Would’ve been sad and uncomfortable because the other nurses weren’t there to help him and that’s where Dom gave him pride and comfort before he died. Remember how I said some of the stories can be funny and out right humerus? Page 52 of My Funny Girlfriend on the 5th paragraph down will have you in stitches. Though there are a lot of sad stories there are also a lot of funny ones which I think is nice, because after your getting a lump in your throat trying to hold back the tears the next moment you’re cracking up laughing. Me as a person who’s been in and out of the hospital all my life knows what it means to have a caring tenderhearted nurse and how not all of them are like that and can prevent you from getting well as quick as you should/could be. You see page 61 of My New Amigo, You see how nurses/friends should really be, and you thank God for the ones that take the time to get to know you. Look, I can go on and on about different stories in this book, but I can never truly express how great this book really is and how it can touch your life, (Like it has mine,) show you how valuable life, friends/family can really be and how you should always have hope because there’s always light at the end of the tunnel no matter how dark the road may seem.
Review: February 16th 2019 (Regina Fortune Black Mountain, NC)
“My Journey as an AIDS Nurse” is a heartbreaking, heartwarming read. I laughed, cried, got angry-the gamut of emotions. I was coming of age at the time AIDS was becoming an epidemic. I never really understood the true horror until reading this story. However, with great trauma comes even greater heroes, and that is what I think this author is: “A Warrior Hero” Thank you Dominick Varsalone for sharing your story and shining a light for so many!
Review: 10/10/19
This book is AMAZING! I recommend anyone from any type of back ground to read this book ! Your story is very inspiring to me and I loved it ! Just hearing your stories , experiences and memories was very intriguing to me. I couldn’t put the book down at all !
Thanks ,
Ariel Edington.
“My Journey as an AIDS Nurse” is the story of my life as a nurse. One chapter of my book is now being made into a short film called.
“Aunt Sadie Loved a lady”
It will be submitted to film festivals across the usa I will be posting more about this in the near future.
Stay tuned!
“Aunt Sadie Loved a Lady has been accepted to the Barrymore Short Film Festival 2021
You can view the festival here:
bfcfilmfestival.org
Then Please vote for “Aunt Sadie Loved a Lady”
There are now a total of 25 reviews
If you have read the book and have not yet given a review you may do so by e-mailing me at:
dpv513@gmail.com
I am thrilled and excited as the first two reviews Of my book have been published!!
The First review iS from POZ Magazine which you can jump to by clicking on Memoirs, Mythology and more
The second review is from the JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF NURSES IN AIDS CARE. This is from the May/June 2017 Issue
As I receive subsequent reviews I will add them at the top in the section after these first two.
More Reviews
“My Journey as an AIDS Nurse”
September 2018
Dear Dominick,
Greetings from India.
First & foremost I'd like to thank you so much for sending the autographed book of yours. You, undoubtedly, wrote your heart out in it. I was convinced that God had put you on this ever spinning planet "Earth" for specific reasons, to protect mankind, to be the helping hand, to understand the pain of those who are suffering from GRID & to offer them the palliative care. This book was really an insightful & intriguing read. I felt really great to know you from this close, togetherness of "You & Bob" (no matter what), your empowerment groups, your life at Broadway House, your journey as an AIDS Nurse, your struggles, & what not, all because of this book, & you know what it made me feel like I'd known you for last many years.
All I can say in the end is that I'm so proud it was written by someone who I call a friend. Thanks for being my friend, Dominick.
P.S. I would always remember this line "The soul would have no rainbow, if the eyes had no tear"
With Love And Gratitude,
Shobhit
This review was sent to me from India. Shobhit is a young man whom I have only met on Linked-In. He does not have kindle so I sent him an autographed copy of my book from Asheville to Mumbai. I am overjoyed that we are now friends and we keep in contact often. We have a goal to meet in person very soon.
This is the latest review of "My Journey as an AIDS Nurse" January 31st 2018
Although we have advancements in treatment and information, Dominick reminds us of a poignant period in our recent history that we cannot soon forget. To allow us into his world as a direct caregiver and share his personal struggles, both professionally and personally, enlightens us as the reader to a view we would not otherwise have experienced. I have a renewed admiration for our unsung heroes in the nursing field.
Carolyn Sue Drover, LMBT Talkeetna, Alaska
#1. I have begun to read your book, “My Journey as an AIDS Nurse” I find it to be very interesting- in fact it is very difficult to close the cover, wondering what the next chapter is going to tell me. You really had quite a journey after deciding to go into nursing. Thanks for sharing your story.
Ms. Margaret A. Johnson Greenville, NC
#2. Powerful memoir on Dominick’s journey that provides insight into the powerful role that nurses and caregivers play in the lives of others. You can’t read this and not be personally affected. Thank you Dominick for writing this and sharing your story with the world.
Michelle B. Buhr Washington D.C.
#3. Very well written. Gives a different perspective on life and survival.
Amazon Customer
#4. Dominick’s book is a compellingly written personal journey of hope, overcoming fear, attaining joy and sharing unconditional love. His book is a must read for medical professionals as he shares deep insight into the true meaning of the life of a nurse: compassion to all.
Solarpwrd on Amazon
#5. Dominick has written a book that takes you through the early years of the growing AIDS crisis. His concern led him to become an ACRN (AIDS Certified Registered Nurse). His compassion and empathy and commitment to his patients and friends is powerful. For thirty years he has dedicated himself to helping AIDS patients who have been shunned by not only society but at times their own families. The story of David G. is the story of how our family met Dominick and how he helped us through a special family occasion with his care of David. Today AIDS is not a death sentence but the care is still very important to many people who still feel the shame of many stigmas. Dominick has written a book long overdue. Congratulations!
Arlene Goz. Sparta, New Jersey
#6. One of the quickest reads… I didn’t want to put the book down. A most fascinating and highly personal account of one man’s journey to becoming a nurse and caregiver, and his commitment to: those living with AIDS. The author bears his soul and makes you understand why he made a mid-life change in careers after working for the railroad for many years. It doesn’t matter if you are a nurse, male or female, gay or straight, or even an acquaintance of the author. You will be drawn into his story and come to understand the healing and even redemptive power of love and compassion.
Stephen J. Hart Tonawanda, New York
#7. Having known Dominick for years, I can see pieces of his heart in this journey. What a great and inspirational story of the difficult years we all had during the epidemic. Nice job Dominick! Great read!
Adlele Webb Wadsworth, Ohio
#8. This book was so inspirational. I felt as though the author was speaking to me in person and from his heart. What he has accomplished and the compassion that he and his partner have shown puts most of us to shame. He suffered much emotional pain on behalf of himself and those he was devoted to helping. It reveals the truth of what happened at the onset of the AIDS epidemic, something most of us at the perimeter only had a small inkling of. It is an eye opener and a really good read.
Rosemary M. Manchester, New Jersey
#9. This book is amazing! I would definitely recommend it!
Stephanie S. Tripoli, Iowa
#10. I just finished reading “My Journey as an AIDS Nurse” and I want to say it was an awesome journey. God gave this author the special gift of compassion which cannot be taught it is born from within and Dominick has used that gift so beautifully.
Alice B. Weehawken, New Jersey
#11. OMG I cannot put this book down it was such a wonderful read I had to put it on my FB page hopefully others will pick up this book and read it.
Peggy S. Jersey shore
#12. As a Nursing Instructor at Christ Hospital School of Nursing for many years, one of the Authors instructors and mentors I have to say I am happy my daughter bought me Dominick’s book for Christmas. This is the last graduating class (2017) of Our school of Nursing after 127 years. As I sit here I am thinking of many people and Dominick is foremost in my mind. What a wonderful journey he has carved out. His kindness and generosity knows no bounds. I will share the experiences of your life as I teach future students in the clinical area. I would not be surprised to see this author on some television program talking about his book and his life of service to others. It is such a worthwhile story, especially in this day and age. It shows what one person can do to make a difference in the lives of others and Dominick’s story is so inspiring.
Rose O’Connor East Hanover, New Jersey,
#13. I stayed up too late last night to read “My Journey as an AIDS Nurse” I opened the book thinking I would read a few of the many short chapters and just could not put it down. When I was a civil activist in the 1950’s we were taught that “Gay” meant “Cheerful” I can’t tell you all how much I enjoyed this book it was so personal I couldn’t put it down.
Diane S. Asheville, North Carolina
#14. Wow, I just finished reading your book and I can’t tell you how much I liked it. Thank you! I think what really made it compelling was how in telling your story you took your training and service and wove them into your personal life with your friends, family, teachers, co-workers and clients. The fact that you took the role of an AIDS nurse out of just a list of duties and chronological activities and brought it into the realm of a daily lifestyle is what made it so interesting.
#15. What your book provides the reader with loud and clear is an understanding that the AIDS epidemic initially at least wasn’t an illness addressed by scientists or focused hospitals or the government. But it was addressed by a groundswell of compassionate volunteers, friends and family members filling the gap and trying to provide comfort and find a solution to the devastating illness that conventional resources didn’t want to acknowledge or get involved with.
#16. One other thing I want to send you “kudos” on is your focus on developing your career. Regardless of his or her profession, not everyone can do what you did. Knowing what you wanted to do and obviously becoming so successful with hard work and dedication certainly says a lot about you. I’m sure there are a significant number of people who are very thankful for having met you along the way.
#17. When I first met Richard I was volunteering with AIDS Project Danbury and his partner was a client at the time. Unfortunately Michael lost the battle early on. However on the other hand I just lent your book to David, a good friend of ours, who was diagnosed in the very early 90’s and he is doing just fine. He’s very lucky and has been undetectable for a number of years now. I saw him last night and he’s about 1/3 of the way through it. Richard is next in line.
Craig Morrison Bethel, Ct
P.S. Maybe this only relates to people who are close to the issues, but there are a lot of “three hanky chapters” in that book.
#18. ByAmazon Customeron March 15, 2017
Verified Purchase
A poignant, heart-warming and heart-breaking journey of one incredible man as he experiences first-hand the struggles and triumphs of the AIDS crisis. Having known Dominick for many years, I have always admired his compassion, dedication, and determination, which provide the foundation of the nursing vocation. However, this book provides such an intimate account of the challenges he faced, I was frequently moved to tears. Perhaps the final words of his book sums it up the best: "One of the most important things I've learned on my journey is simple.... To a nurse, it should never matter why or how someone becomes sick. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity so that when their time comes, they can leave this good earth feeling love, compassion, and the loving touch of someone holding their hand." Well said, Dominick! Godspeed!
Barbara Davey Verona, New Jersey
#19. If we are lucky we are able to find a book that speaks kind, loving words to our souls. This book was able to do that for me. I found new sparks of creativity, support, encouragement and ideas reading this book. This book brought back ideas of what I wanted to accomplish in my life and what I felt my purpose in life is. Not only is this book an amazing read, very well written, but it is also so inspirational and such a real good feel good book, despite the subject nature. This book gave me a new lease on my career, creativity, and purpose. Thank you so much!
Jason H. Asheville, North Carolina
#20. Just received from Dominick P. Varsalone, the kindest man on Earth, his new autobiographical book.
Here are its opening lines: "1995. It's my first evening as an AIDS Nurse at Broadway House in Newark and I'm at the nurses' station when the telephone rings. I pick it up and a male voice on the line says. " There is a bomb in an attaché case under the piano in the rotunda. I put it there to kill all the AIDS-infected faggots and the bitches that care for them."
And here is how it ends: "Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity so that when their time comes, they can leave this good earth feeling love, compassion and the loving touch of someone holding their hand."
"Love has a wide reach, and sharing it is never wrong. Together, we can move forward."
Vsevolod Vlaskine, Sydney, Australia
#21. I've just finished reading your book, ”My Journey as an AIDS Nurse” and in so many ways it is a beautiful book despite the subject matter and the stories of so much love that was lost on the planet during those years, family as well as "patients" who always became family within our hearts...and so many moments of redemption. How you remembered all those details is absolutely encyclopedic. What has been the response of others who've read the book? I know you will understand when I say that, in some very strange way, I miss the way so many gay men and others came together to work at defeating an awful scourge...it was the complete antithesis of the "me" generation, and I miss that special bonding spirit when men go to war together, even to this day.
#22. What comes through most compellingly in the narrative, is YOU...all of your devotion, all of your commitment, all of your caring, all of your love, all of your community organizing, and on and on. All the time I was reading the book I was thinking of that era gone bye and wishing we could all be together again at one of the many parties we’ve shared. Thanks so very much to the Author Dominick P. Varsalone for keeping our friends alive in spirit.
Ray Boeri: New York City, New York
#23. I just read the first story in your book (little Jake passed out). I'm crying already.
Tori A. Orlando, FL
#24.
5.0 out of 5 starsA Must Read!!
By Victoria on December 7, 2017
In order to really understand what this man had to go through to be his real self you must read this book. He pursued his goals and won. His compassion and empathy for a world no one wanted to talk about draws you into this narrative. i could not put down the book. All the people and their families who you helped during the AIDS crisis years were fortunate to have you as their nurse and caregiver. Thank you for sharing your intimate story with the world.
#25
So I finished reading your book, and here are my thoughts on it:
This book is a treasure on so many levels. First, from a technical standpoint, small chapters, short sentences, and clear language make it a very pleasant and easy book to read.
Secondly, it is very informative for people, like me, who before this had no in-depth knowledge of how the process of becoming a nurse, dealing with AIDS or forming help organizations worked in real life. It gave me a much clearer picture.
Thirdly, and most importantly, the emotion with which all the sensitive bits were treated is inspiring. There were moments when I felt like crying and other moments when I felt so angry.
I’m reminded of a quote by Aldous Huxley who wrote that “the proper study of mankind is books”. As I was reading the life experiences of the author, who I was very fortunate to meet, I couldn’t help but think that the range of emotions on display is exactly what makes life have meaning.
"This review was written to me in an e-mail from "Joao" who Bob and I met in Portugal. Joao was one of our tour guides there in 2017 and during our travels he told us of his love for reading books and suggested we go to the oldest book store in the world while in Lisbon. I asked Joao if he would like to read the book I wrote, my memoir and then when I got back to the US I sent it to him." I am honored now to call him friend.