Marianne McDonough, a freelance journalist, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012. During the crucial first weeks, she found that soul-level honesty, “getting real,” empowered her to be stronger and more proactive in her cancer journey. Now, as a survivor, she seeks to encourage cancer warriors to fight this brutal disease with confidence and freedom. Her compassion for cancer patients, especially newly diagnosed, is palpable.

With a Master’s Degree in Mass Communications from the University of Minnesota, Marianne loves the process of writing, whatever the genre. Her writing experience includes direct marketing, magazines, and community newspapers as well as inspirational writing such as devotionals, memoir, and poetry.

In addition to her writing career, Marianne directs Great Commission Artists, a Christian visual artists network dedicated to community service. She also serves on the board of the Minnesota Christian Writers Guild as its Communications Director.

Marianne loves to read and relax on her porch at the cabin, play bridge, dance, and attend live theater, especially musicals. She and her husband enjoy two adult daughters and three delightful granddaughters.