Do It Myself Blog – Glenda Watson Hyatt

(Photo credit: Jamielynn Storch)

One of the fringe benefits of travelling to Philadelphia in July to conquer the Rocky steps is meeting a new circle of friends, including first-time author Felice Cantatore from New York.

In his page-turning Rocky Spirit, Felice chronicles how his life’s journey parallels and intersects that of Rocky Balboa’s, and how "go the distance" has become his mantra.

Without giving away the details, my favourite moment in the book is when Felice orchestrates circumstances that enable him to escort Sylvester Stallone to his seat for a Rocky movie premier. Incredible!

In recent weeks I have had the pleasure of interviewing Felice via email. Without further ado…

Felice: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss my book with you. Rocky Spirit, The Rocky Balboa Connection to Success is my true story about an “everyman” and my quest to go the distance in life to understand the true meaning of the Rocky Spirit in our universe.

The inspirational story is a roadmap to assist people to tap into their inner champion. It promotes that you can accomplish anything that you set your mind to utilizing your own power, passion, purpose and perseverance. These inner strengths exist within us all.

The story is unique because it connects multiple life lessons to one of the most iconic movie franchises of all-time and its main character, Rocky Balboa. Millions of people from around the world know about or can relate to the famous saga of what I consider to be the greatest underdog story.

Readers will enjoy and become astonished by the uncanny connections that my life has had to these films. Each connection, like pieces of a puzzle led to my understanding the true meaning of the Rocky Spirit. It is a goal to share the story with others to help men, women and children overachieve or overcome what is present in their lives, so they can discover their own inner Rocky.

Glenda: Through the years there have been countless movies made about an underdog overcoming obstacles and ultimately, triumphing. What do you feel it is about the Rocky movies – and in particular, the scene of him running up the steps – that resonates with millions of people around the world?

Felice: The steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art have become one of the most iconic and energy-filled landmarks in the world. There is an important reason why people run up the steps and thrust their arms upward into the sky in triumph every day.

The 72 steps at this location represent every man’s challenge in life to make it to the top. The original film did a wonderful job by showing the main character’s struggle to run them at first. Then through hard work and determination, Rocky raced up the steps. He extended his arms in victory as a sign of inner strength.

This energizing scene gives people the belief that they too can reach the top step in life and accomplish their dreams. Since a visit to this historic movie location is easy to attain, each visitor adds to the power, energy and spirit that is forever present in the heart of the City of Brotherly Love.

The Rocky Steps have played a major roll in my life and story. The location has even given me a special gift, a glance into its energy. I now have the ability to share its power with the world through the platform of my book.

All six of the Rocky movies deliver life lessons along with hope and opportunity for every human being. The films resonate on many levels to all different people, from starting up to starting over again. These films have masterminded inspiration and set an example for this and future generations. I am proud that my book can contribute to this legacy.

Glenda: I have heard actress, comedienne and screenwriter Emma Thompson describe how she handwrites her screenplays, sitting at a clutter-free desk and using a favourite pen from her Dad. It sounds very idyllic to me. What is your writing process like? Is it as idyllic as Emma’s?

Felice: Rocky Spirit also has a lot to do with my father. His spirit is present and his photograph hangs behind me where I sit to write at my computer. I draw inspiration from life’s lessons, which I learn every day.

My process is to formulate my thoughts and get the words on screen. When I am done, I go back multiple times to adjust, organize or make changes. I have a strong belief that the right words will eventually materialize.

I will never forget the struggle to get the first draft of my book written. One night, I decided to stop and get some rest because the words were not flowing. I woke up at 2 a.m. with almost every word clearly present in my mind. I immediately got up and typed away for more than seven hours straight as the words kept coming out. This is what helped me structure the main part of my story.

In my case, persistence, perseverance and the desire to never give up has allowed me to write and produce a book that is already motivating and inspiring readers. It is no wonder where I learned those traits from. My goal is to have a worldwide reach with my message.

Glenda: Many of my friends have written books and have debated whether to self publish or to go the traditional publisher route. Why did you opt to self publish? What advice do you have for authors who are leaning in that direction?

Felice: The self-publishing industry and the Internet have had a major effect on the world of publishing. As an “unknown” author, I felt that by having a completed project in hand, it would be the best way to get the attention needed.

Self-publishing has the advantage of getting the product out quicker. There are some excellent support services available with the packages offered. This route has given me a chance to go the distance and get the story into the hands of readers around the world. Ironically, my quest to get this book written, produced and now distributed has become the new “Rocky story” in my life.

My advice to others is that they know their goals, understand their resources and have a plan. Remember that getting a deal to be traditionally published will take some time but delivers tremendous distribution and public relation benefits along with great support. By getting started through self-publishing, a first-time author can potentially open the door to become traditionally published. If you choose to go the self-publishing route, my advice is to know what you are getting as part of the services offered and review the fine print in the contract.

I have truly enjoyed the self-publishing method. I am proud of my book and the work that iUniverse, one the largest self-publishers in the world, have afforded me. Their initial review of the book and suggestions to take it to the next level was extremely valuable in getting me to the finish line.

The experience of self-publishing and producing my book was truly another connection to the Rocky story every step of the way. It was not easy but it was worth it.

Glenda: What are you hoping people will gain by reading Rocky Spirit?

Felice: My initial goal for the book was simple. I stated: “If I could change just one person’s life in a positive way then I would consider myself a success.” It just so happened that during the first week of the book’s release, a childhood friend’s 11-year-old son downloaded it on his Kindle. After the young man read the book for the second time within a week, I received a message stating that it changed his life. You can only imagine my feeling upon hearing those exact words. I achieved my goal within the very first week.

This is exactly what I hope for people while reading this book. I would like to make a positive difference in many lives through the spirit of Rocky. I trust that people will follow their own dreams and passions toward personal success. I look forward to getting their emails and messages because I feed off of their energy. I have already received a large number of positive responses. It is incredible that it is all happening right before my eyes.

I would want readers to know that anything is possible if they follow their passion and faith.

Glenda: How has writing and then launching your book impacted or even changed your life?

Felice: It has been one of the greatest experiences, ever. The book is opening new doors for me every day. It has given me the ability to connect with thousands of like-minded people worldwide. I am confident that I will connect with many more.

What amazes me is how so many of us share similar goals even though everyone’s passions are different. Every day I learn more about people, including friends and family that I have known for years. The book allows us to connect on new and different levels. I enjoy helping people follow their dreams.

I am especially proud of the positive effect the story has had on children and young adults. While writing the book, I made sure that the content was clean and wholesome, proving that you can produce a great story in this manner. This can promote a healthy change in our society.

In regards to impact and change, I am ready and prepared to accept a role in life to be a strong motivator and communicator. I am looking forward to utilizing one of my passions to connect and assist others around the world.

Glenda: What is next for you?

Felice: Right now all of my efforts are on the distribution and promotion of the book. Ironically, I am the underdog in the book business world. Being an unknown author makes it difficult but I will never give up on my goal of getting Rocky Spirit out to as many people as possible.

I continue to focus on a “million-to-one shot” of turning my Rocky Spirit story into a true Rocky story. As the book climbs up the charts, the goal will always be to get to the top of those steps. When I am successful, we will all raise our arms in victory.

Some of my next plans are to produce an audio book version of the story and a motivational speaking package. I also have a strong website idea that I am preparing to introduce that connects well with my story.

The last words in my book are…“to be continued.” I know there is another amazing story just waiting to be lived and then written. I have a lot dreams, confidence and plenty of Rocky Spirit in my life. I will do whatever it takes to reach my goals.

One last thing: I would love to own a black 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. It would be a wonderful symbol of personal success for me!

Thank you Glenda it has been an honor to have met you.

With Gratitude,
Felice

Glenda: Felice, I would like to sincerely thank you, both for being a part of that day in Philly, a moment that I will cherish for the rest of my life, and for taking time for this interview.

I wish you every success with your book, and in acquiring your 1979 Trans Am. If anyone can make that happen, you can.

I’ve added “Ride in Felice’s Trans Am” to my bucket list!

Readers, Rocky Spirit is available for instant download onto your Kindle. To assist Felice in spreading the word about his inspiring book, please be sure to Like, tag and review his book on Amazon. Watch for details on how to like, tag and review in my next post.

To keep up with my adventures, musings and insights, be sure to subscribe to DoItMyselfBlog.com.

Hey. Wait.

Where did everyone go?

While my deck is still in full colour…

While my flowers are still blooming…

While the Dusty Miller is still growing like never before…

While there are still more leaves on the trees than on the ground…

And while I’m still getting puppy kisses in the park…

(Photo credit: Darrell Hyatt)

I’m still going to enjoy this amazing summer.

Who’s is with me? How are you going to squeeze every last drop of goodness out of this summer?

After my first red-eye flight, followed by my first significantly delayed, and, ultimately, cancelled flight, I finally landed in Philadelphia on the afternoon of Friday, July 27th.

My journey to the City of Brotherly Love actually began a few years earlier when, on a rainy Saturday afternoon, Darrell and I sat at the kitchen table and watched a Rocky movie marathon on Darrell’s laptop. Something about the scene where Rocky runs up the steps, which I later learned were at Philadelphia’s Museum of Art, with others joining him sparked something within me.

A little voice whispered, “I want to do that!” My initial response was “Yeah, right. Sure. How the heck am I going to do that? Get real.” I didn’t even tell Darrell because it was too crazy; and I’ve told him some pretty crazy stuff over the years. The thing is, once that little voice says something, unhearing it is not an option.

Fast forward to March 2010: I was in San Diego to present at the 26th Annual International Technology & Persons with Disabilities Conference (CSUN 2010). While exploring the Exhibit Hall and other displays, I came across a table of information about ISAAC: the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. I hadn’t even heard of ISAAC until that moment, which I thought was odd since I’m was now using my iPad for communication and was being drawn into the AAC community. I also learned their 15th Biennial Conference was to be held in Pittsburgh in July 2012. The young volunteer gave me a flyer about the conference and said, “Hope to see you in Pittsburgh.” Something about her genuine tone of voice planted another seed.

Given my limited American geography, I knew, at least, that Pittsburgh and Philadelphia were in the same State. Close enough. I quietly added “Climb the stairs at Philadelphia Museum of Art with the spirit of Rocky Balboa” to my bucket list more than a year ago.

Since the thought of attending ISAAC was now zinging around inside my head, I figured I might as well contribute to the conference conversation. I spent weeks writing a presentation proposal and submitted it. I didn’t hear anything. Then, with the deadline for submissions only two hours away, I decided to submit a second proposal, which was a quick copy-n-paste job from previous content I had written and I slapped on the cheesy title “The New AAC: Glenda’s Life-Changing Story Starring the iPad”. Wouldn’t you know it: the quick n dirty submission was accepted. Is there a lesson here?

I now had a reason to be in Pittsburgh. What was a few extra hundred miles and a few extra hundred dollars to stop by Philadelphia first?

On May 17th, 2012, I wrote a blog post to put “out there” my crazy idea of climbing the steps at Philadelphia’s Museum of Art in the spirit of Rocky Balboa. What followed was a flurry of tweets and emails: a tweet by my web accessibility colleague and friend John Foliot led to Kel Smith putting the wish-granting organization Wish Upon A Hero in touch with me. From there, Director of Wish Granting JamieLynn Storch worked her magic. People were coming from all directions to be involved. Plans were put into place. It was very exciting and somewhat overwhelming, and to think it all started with a seemingly crazy idea.

Even though I arrived at the Philadelphia airport three hours late, Wish Upon a Hero founder Dave Girgenti and Director of Programs Ryan Rendfry were there, as planned, to pick me up in the wish-granting hummer. Yes, a hummer!

I checked into Le Meriden, a posh boutique hotel in the heart of downtown and a mere mile away from the Museum of Art. I would definitely stay there again, if given a chance, because it was so nice not needing to fight with a so-called accessible room. The hotel gets physical accessibility.

Given that I hadn’t had an actual meal in I don’t know long, I then went searching for food, which is always a daunting task when alone in an unfamiliar city. Unfortunately, because of my late arrival, I missed the Amish sticky buns at the Reading Terminal Market, as highly recommended by my friend Char James-Tanny. However, I did happen across the Italian restaurant Maggiano’s, which seemed a fitting connection to the Italian Stallion, and with Glenda-friendly pasta on the menu. Bonus! I loaded up on carbs for energy for the next day, but decided to forgo drinking the six raw eggs the next morning; I wasn’t aiming for that much of an authentic re-enactment.

Not only was I famished, but I was also very thirsty. When I travel, I limit fluid intake because I do not have easy, if any, access, to a washroom while in the air. And, my unexpected extended trip meant an extended time without much to drink. With a glass of iced tea and a glass of water on the go, I was a two-fisted drinker that night!

With it still light out after supper, I went on a short photo wheel around the area — something I had forgotten I had done until I got home and went through my photos. (Yes, it was a seemingly long trip!)

At the corner of 16th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway, I was surprised to see what I assumed (and later confirmed) to be the Museum of Art. It was humongous! I was so tempted to go a few blocks further to get a closer look, but I didn’t want to spoil anything for the next morning. Besides, I still had to finish the email interview for the Philadelphia Inquirer reporter.

The next morning began rather early, especially given the three hour time difference. But I didn’t mind: excitement was building!

My walk along the Ben Franklin Parkway was pleasant and reminded me of my day in Washington DC — minus security noticeable everywhere.

Breakfast ended up being a few bites of a dry croissant and couple sips of juice across from the museum; not quite what I had envisioned before such a physical activity. Mysteriously, the croissant, juice and bottle of water then disappeared somewhere in the excitement. That’s how it goes sometimes.

"I am going to do what? Are you kidding me?"

But seriously, those steps are rather intimidating when staring up at them. For a nanosecond, I questioned what I was about to do. When the newspaper reporter asked how I was feeling right before we started, I replied, “Nervous.” Now was not the time to trip over my own feet, which has been known to happen.

The first step I took, with H.E.R.O. (Hero Emergency Response Operation) Justin Jack and Ryan, was rather wobbly and I am sure everyone was thinking, “Oh, ya, this is going to take a while.” I was certainly thinking that.

But once the Rolling Trumpet Ensemble from Rowan University struck the first few notes of the Rocky theme song “Gonna Fly Now” — yes, a band! —

and I found my feet…I felt like I floated up the first two levels!

After a quick sip….

Rocky Spirit author Felice Cantatore and Rocky impersonator Mike Kunda helped me the rest of the way. (Does Mike look like Rocky or what?!)

An increasing number of supporters cheered with each step I took…

This video shot by one of the 40-50 (or more) bystanders captures a majority of the climb:

Apparently we only took 7 minutes to reach the top of the 72 steps. (Karen, Craig and I took half an hour to reach the top of the 81 stairs at the Robson Square Zipline. We must have stopped for coffee along the way.)

(Yes, you do see my scooter in the right side of the photo. Three big, strong guys from the Rocky Spirit team carried my scooter up the Rocky steps so that I had a place to sit once I reached the top. The wheelchair ramp went only so far.)

Once I had nearly caught my breath again, the reporter asked how I was feeling in the moment. I uttered, “Awesome” mainly because it was the easiest word to say. But, in actuality, the word was “Indescribable!”

Indescribable because so many small moments had been pieced together to create that one moment and because so many people had played a role. I now had a view of Philadelphia that I had only seen in a 33 year old movie. How many people get the opportunity to experience that?

In my lifetime I have always made my own path, taken the road less travel, mainly because there was no one out in front leading the way for me. For a brief moment, it was nice to stand in someone else’s shoes — or footsteps — to absorb everything that Rocky represents.

One of my favourite photos of the day…

…standing between Rocky impersonator and author of Cue the Rocky Music, Mike Kunda, and boxing champion who went fifteen rounds with Mohammed ALI, Chuck Wepner, the inspiration for the Rocky movies. Can life get any better than this?!

Apparently, it can! After being in town for less than 48 hours, Kristin Holmes’ article about my climb appeared in the Philadelphia Inquirer. The hotel concierge gave me his Sunday newspaper to treasure.

I would like to sincerely thank everyone — many of whom were mentioned here, many more were not — who were involved in making this day indescribable. I am truly appreciative and will cherish the memories in my heart for many, many years to come. Thank you.

To keep up with my adventures, musings and insights, be sure to subscribe to DoItMyselfBlog.com.

WHAT: Glenda Watson Hyatt, an author and blogger who has cerebral palsy, will fulfill a dream on her bucket list by climbing the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art with the assistance of Wish Upon a Hero and Chuck Wepner, boxing champ and inspiration for the Rocky films, and the inspiration for the Rocky Films and 30 caped volunteers, a five-piece jazz band and a Rocky impersonator.

WHEN: Saturday, July 28, 2012
9:30 – 10:30am (eastern time zone
10am climb up steps begins

WHERE: Philadelphia Museum of Art, Steps
Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia

WHO: Glenda Watson Hyatt – author, blogger
Dave Girgenti, founder, Wish Upon a Hero
Chuck Wepner, boxing champ and heavyweight contender who went the distance 15 rounds with Muhammad Ali
30 Caped volunteers
Rocky Spirit
Rocky Impersonator

CONTACT: Carol Lunger, Star Group Public Relations
610-574-0576

DETAILS:

Glenda Watson Hyatt, author of I’ll Do It Myself, and known as the ‘Left Thumb Blogger,’ has cerebral palsy. She has dreamed of climbing the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art just as Sylvester Stallone did in the movie Rocky. Summiting the steps has become symbolic of overcoming obstacles of all kinds. For Glenda, who is unable to walk without support, the climb will be a mental AND physical accomplishment.

Glenda here: I am totally blown away by the response I have received since I voiced, “I would like to climb those steps.” I didn’t have a clear reason for wanting to do it; other than “because I can, with help,” and “Why not?”

The response, particularly from the team at Wish Upon A Hero, has been way more than I could have ever imagined. A five-piece jazz band?! And…a boxing champion who went the distance with Mohammed Ali! I never would have dreamed that.

I am really excited about Saturday and I imagine many, many photos and videos will be taken and will be shared soon afterwards. For those on Twitter, the official hashtag for this event is #RockyWish.

If you are not able to join us in Philly on Saturday, I still hope you will experience the spirit of Rocky Balboa. I challenge you to go try something new, something different. It doesn’t matter what it is; big or small, it doesn’t matter. Share your “Rocky” moment in a comment below, in a blog post with a link back, in a tweet using the hashtag #RockySpirit, or whatever.

After returning from Pittsburgh (after Philadelphia), I’ll be enjoying a much needed staycation until August 15th. I’d love to come back to a barrage of comments, posts and tweets about your experiences.

Go grab life by the…gloves!