By CASSIE MOORE / Guest Columnist

Cancer is a frightening word, but according to John Schulz it’s important to find a way to deal with this difficult, sometimes crushing diagnosis with humor and optimism.

As author of “Requiem for a Redneck” and “Sweetie Drives on Chemo Days: Facing cancer treatments with humor and optimism,” Schulz will be the visiting author at the Shelby County Arts Council (SCAC) on May 8 at 6 p.m.

Schulz and his wife, Dekie, currently reside in Rome, Georgia, where they have lived the last 40 years.

It was there they started Wheredepony Press, a company designed to help independent writers self-publish their manuscripts, and where Schulz published his first book.

Described as funny and poignant, “Requiem for a Redneck” is the first in a trilogy portraying the lives of people in the north Georgia hills through a collection of stories. Schulz has since written “Redemption for a Redneck” and is working on the third and final book in the series, “Resurrection for a Redneck.”

“Sweetie Drives on Chemo Days,” Schulz’s most recent book, dives into his cancer story. The book chronicles the loss of his voice, his journey to a new voice through writing, as well as the questions he sought and the answers he obtained along the way.

Schulz explains where he garners strength and inspiration: “I have always been an optimist. I am a professional gardener and I have a caring, loving wife to talk with…I realize that a good attitude is one of the best medications we can have.”

Come hear Schulz speak about his experiences and his writing on May 8 at 6 p.m. at the SCAC. He will also be speaking at the Relay for Life event in Columbiana later the same day.

For more information on upcoming events visitShelbycountyartscouncil.com or call 669-0044.