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Acknowledgments
Many people were very helpful during the long process of interviewing, analyzing the data, and writing up the results of this study. First of all, I am deeply indebted to the women who dedicated their time and emotional energy to the interview process. These women were willing to candidly tell their stories in hopes that other women experiencing similar pain could find the assistance they needed. R. Dennis Shelby was a great mentor, providing not only encouragement but instilling confidence in me along the way. His quick mind was many times able to grasp what was difficult for me to see. He was constant in his attention, encouragement, and dedication to the process. When I was unable to maintain focus and excitement, I could count on Dennis to steer me in the appropriate direction. Barbara Berger and Marcia Adler were instrumental in assisting me in analyzing and interpreting the data. Both women offered considerable clinical expertise as well as theoretical knowledge. I want to extend a special thank you to these two women who were undergoing personal challenges and yet were able to maintain focus on my research.
I have been fortunate to have had access to excellent schools of higher learning. Each of these colleges and universities taught me critical thinking skills and prepared me for the challenge of research.