Mike Herman of Madison, Wisconsin had a lifelong dream to be a writer. But, for thirty years he pursued a career in industrial sales. Then, at age 46, he was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and his life changed. When his illness interfered with his job responsibilities, he decided to retire in 1995. Refusing to be controlled by the disease, however, Mike now devotes himself to volunteer work and writing. He volunteers at an Adult Day Center where he provides compassionate care for others. And, he writes essays and poems as a way to demonstrate his strong faith, love for his family, and appreciation for the little things in life.
Mike and his wife Ronnie have been married for over 30 years. Because the worst stages of Parkinson's Disease can rob a person of the ability to communicate with others, Mike decided to write letters of encouragement to Ronnie that she would always have. This was the inspiration for writing his book Silent Echoes, a compilation of 21 essays and one poem that are positive, nostalgic, and sensitive.