Benefits & Costs

. . . the benefits and costs

Over and over, gerontologists and therapists are discovering the wealth of benefits that come from telling one’s story, from lowering blood pressure to coming to terms with childhood trauma (this from a study by Dr. James Pennebaker of the University of Texas).

That’s beyond the great gift that others receive in connecting to family and history.

Realizing this, Time Magazine featured personal histories in its November 11, 2002 issue. Wrote author Sarah Stich:

“It's a human need to want to leave something behind: experiences, values, feelings that may not have been fully expressed. But a concrete legacy is only one of the benefits of creating a personal history. Experts agree that reviewing and assessing one's life also has emotional and physical benefits.”

Others find the process of reviewing their lives unusually affirming. They discover the real meaning their lives have had. Ultimately, this is a journey into wholeness....

Benefits & Costs

About Donna Gold

So What Does a Story Cost?

It depends on the project.

The most basic project, an oral history (left in question & answer format), costs $500. This is a booklet based on the transcription of a two-hour interview, and includes a copy of an audio tape and two copies of the booklet. Pictures, digital copies, changes and more interviews are extra.

Larger projects usually begin at $1000, depending on the length of interviews.

Since there are so many variables, please contact me to dicuss your project, whether it is a life story, writing an ethical will, creating a commemorative album, offering a workshop or helping you complete your own manuscript.

Camden: A Place in Time

Contact me at carpenter@acadia.net or 866-567-4172 to discuss your project.

Client Comments

“Your encouragement, commitment and suggestions have made this process exciting and possible. I have learned more about myself and have a better appreciation for all the people in my life. Thanks, Donna, for taking an interest.” —RW, Carlsbad, California

“I can get drunk on this work.” —JS, Dorado, Puerto Rico and Harrison, New York

“Working this way gave me greater insight into my mother. I was able to understand her in a new and profoundly refreshing light.” —SS, Brooklin, Maine

“Can we have more books? There aren’t enough for all the people who want them!” —KL, East Blue Hill, Maine

“My brother delivered the book to my mother on her 80th birthday. She read it six times that day and I don’t know how many times the day after.” —JC, Stockton Springs, Maine