The Woman Who Can't Forget (20 page)

I want to thank everyone who has worked with me on this book. I want them to know how much I appreciate all they have done. It hasn't been an easy road, nor have I been the easiest person to work with—but their kindness and dedication to me and my story will always be remembered. In that spirit, my sincere thanks to:

My writer, Bart Davis: The moment I heard his voice I knew he was the person to walk this journey with me. He understood from the beginning what my memory has done to my life. With his friendship and support, I have been able to tell my story.

My agent, Eileen Cope at Trident Media Group, whose professional guidance, understanding, and support were valuable beyond measure. She has stood by me every moment of the way.

Robert Gottlieb and Dan Harvey of Trident Media Group, whose belief and commitment were unflagging.

My editor, Emily Loose at Free Press, who moved from fascination to true understanding—and who to me is the standard for all editors. She has been truly devoted, spending countless hours in her quest for the best, most accurate, and meaningful story, and has made me proud to have my name on this book.

Free Press Publisher Martha Levin and Editorial Director Dominick Anfuso, whose enthusiasm could be felt from the beginning.

Free Press Publicity Director Carissa Hayes and my publicist Heidi Metcalfe, who have worked tirelessly to make sure my story reached the world.

Trident assistant Amy Meyerson and Free Press assistant Danielle Kaniper, who were always sweet to me even when maybe I wasn't.

My attorneys, Jonathan Erlich and Robert Strent, for their commitment to me and this project.

The girls in my bubble, with over a hundred years of friendship: Wendy Lavoie, Tina Roberts, Laura Green, Teri Levy, Andi Olden, and Caitlin Keats. Your love, understanding, and friendship have meant the world to me.

Those closest to me through the years: Bob Chafey, Jodi and Damian Greenberg, Gary Salem, Donna and Rob Bruza, Rochelle Hyman, Sara Escala, Vivienne Friedman, Melissa Buyer, Jan McGuire, Craig Lavoie, Barry Green, and Tres Pryor—I love you.

My stepsons, Ben and Tyler Price: I love you both and always will.

My aunt, Ruth Tillman, whom I felt most like and who always wanted the best for me.

Danny, Beverly, Matthew, and Adam Wells; Stuart, Deidre, Jennifer, Christopher, and Alexander Damon; Arnold, Carol, and Max Sank; Earl, Barbara, and Jennifer Kate Barret; and Miriam Garfield—with whom I spent my childhood. You are my second family, and I love you.

The women in my Bereavement Group: Cherie Beller, Phyllis Berke, Marj Bravin, Renee Gordon, Arlene Lottman, and Dalia Ulmer, for your wisdom, friendship, and total understanding.

My special thanks to the scientists at the University of California at Irvine, Dr. James L. McGaugh, Dr. ElizabethS. Parker, and Dr. Larry Cahill, for listening to me and believing in me and for taking me on this incredible journey that has meant so much to my life. You showed me the way to understand myself and helped me to bring that understanding to others in the hope of advancing the science of human memory.

My new scientists, Dr. Jill M. Goldstein, Ph.D., and Dr. Nikos Makris M.D., Ph.D., with whom I will take the next part of my journey.