Many people say that someday they’re “going to write a book” about their life experiences. Victoria Thompson actually has followed through with that thought, with the development of her book of poems, “Mosquitoes of Love.”
“All through my life I’ve had mystical experiences, moments when I’ve been brought very close to knowing what it’s all about,” the Hobart resident said at a recent book signing at St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart. “Each of the poems describes the moment as closely as I could. It’s like trying to put mercury in a bottle … very elusive.”
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For the past 16 years, Thompson has volunteered at the hospital, observing the need for her Volunteer Auxiliary to keep funds in its account for scholarships and purchasing hospital equipment.
To that end, she is donating all sales from the book to the hospital Gift Shop, whose proceeds go into the auxiliary’s account.
During a regular workday, Thompson works at the hospital’s East entrance in registration. She escorts patients to registration and to all parts of the hospital. She also delivers specimens to the fifth-floor laboratory, and files to cardiovascular unit.
But on one recent Tuesday, the dedicated volunteer stationed herself near the Water Fall Café, displaying her book for sale. A large sign near the hospital’s front door alerted visitors to her fundraising efforts.
By mid-morning, four books were sold, and the author had nine orders from those who couldn’t pick up their book at the hospital. Many hospital employees stopped by the book display on their way to lunch in the café.
“This (book donation) is a blessing because of Victoria’s hard work benefiting the hospital,” Terrance Hughes said. “And she’s not asking for anything in return.”
Co-worker Robbin Hood agreed, as she also talked with Thompson.
“This looks very interesting, very inspiring,” she said, leafing through the 27 pages of poems and illustrations.
Hospital volunteer coordinator Theresa Pedroza said the book project is just another display of Thompson’s generosity.
“Victoria not only gives of her time and talents within the hospital, but it’s wonderful that she is donating sales from her book,” Pedroza said. “We are so proud she is part of our team.”
Although Thompson has written other books — several novels, one autobiography, several short stories, and a whimsical book of poems and drawings — this is the first one that will benefit the hospital.
In addition to her writing efforts, Thompson also designed a ceramic mural that was in Hobart Middle School and now is a part of the Hobart Police Station. The dedicated volunteer also fashioned the ceramic mural outside St. Bridget School.
Thompson has a bit of advice for those reading her latest endeavor.
“The poems shouldn’t be read quickly,” she said. “Even though I wrote them, I still find something I’ve missed, something that gives me another perspective in them. One poem a day would be a good diet.”
“Mosquitoes of Love” is available in the St. Mary Medical Center Gift Shop.
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.