We all have goals in life; no matter how simple or complicated they are. Most of the time we wonder “am I able to reach my dream, and if not, how come?”.

Human nature, most the time, is the problem. Or perhaps our goal is so broad that we already give up before we have even started.

Before I published Life of Love for Atema and Atepa, the true story of my relationship and story between my husband and myself, I asked my self, “what is the reason for writing this book?” I wanted to share a genuine love story for my husband Patrick. He was so humble and he had such a beautiful heart and mind. I am sure my readers have questions in the back of their minds, such as, “what's so great about her Love Story that makes it different than the rest of ours?”. Well, it's a real story of the writer and author. Life of Love for Atema and Atepa captures the true romance from my life with Patrick. Its a story about culture, family, children, different generations and two people separated by opposite sides of the world.  We fell in love through the many letters we wrote one another and despite thousand of miles apart, we were able to endure a life together for 24 years.

Now I would like to raise money for the children in the small village of Mahayag, Philippines, where I grew up. In one of Patrick's letters he dreamt of someday helping those children so that they would be able to receive medical care. Most of the children in the village have never been fortunate enough to visit a clinic or see a doctor. 

There are two schools in Mahayag that I would like to donate to with the sales from my book. Mahayag High School has the medical facilities but are lacking supply along with adequate medical equipment. Mahayag Elementary don't have any medical facilities so this one could use a lot of help. 

All profits generated from sales of my book will be used to start a foundation that will help the children as well as adults living in my former village.

How you can help:

By purchasing a copy of Life of Love for Atema and Atepa for you or a friend or family member, you will be supporting our goal in helping the people who do not have access to or cannot afford the medical treatment that they so desperately need.

Thank you and please feel free to contact me through this site if you should have any questions.

Sincerely,

Dedeth Ford

First of all there is no absolute formula for a strong and healthy relationship. Secondly it's not my place to give advice to any couples out there, although in my own experience it takes diligence and hard work along with sacrifices for both husband and wife; each have to share responsibilities in order for the relationship to work. 

Don't try to change your spouse's personality or character, because sooner or later, our true self will resurface no matter how hard we tried to be different than  who we really are. First, you must be honest to your self and love who you are. This is obviously easier said than done. What worked for my husband and me was the fact that we were always open and honest with one another. We did't have a hidden agenda. Communication is the key role for us.

We had our share of disagreements and fights, but we didn't hold it back. One thing we always tried to do was stay passionate and open. My late husband Patrick always reminded me to never bring our fights with us to bed. 

Material things were not important to us. When there is love, passion, understanding and openness between both husband and wife, life is wonderful and exciting and full. 
Sincerely,
Dedeth Ford (Life of Love for Atema and Atepa)