Beyond the Melody is unlike anything you have read before. It is a fitting tribute to two women of great substance who experienced an extraordinary journey and a friendship that most of us can only wish for. Combining households was the easy part in light of what they later faced through a labyrinth of medical facilities, personnel, specialists, and, finally, hospice when Sheila resolutely faced her terminal illness. Nancy kept their many friends informed through beautifully crafted emails that were positive in their message while honest in the facts-not an easy task. Seven years following the loss of Sheila, Nancy decided to memorialize this friendship by telling the story behind the emails. The result is riveting. The author's ability to inject humor into the daily travails of the journey allows the reader to identify with-and perhaps prepare for-this all too human and somewhat inevitable experience many may face.