My name is Leah Yodico and I am the author of the second upcoming poetry book entitled, PLAYLISTS TO SURVIVAL' and upcoming recording project of the song, THIRST.
I wrote the book in the depths of sickness, depression, divorce, and struggling as a single mother of a 7 year old daughter. She is now 30 years old.
It was a 'double whammy'. I was healing a broken heart and a broken body simultaneously. My marriage had broken already for 7 years. My ex didn't want a child during pregnancy. Fear of financial responsibility, losing freedom, lacking empathy for me. We continued living together 'for the child only'. Even if we didn't fight openly, tension was there.
The most heartbreaking part of it, was that, I received two pieces of devastating news at once on the same day: letter from the hospital and from the divorce attorney.
There was no social media then, no family for they lived miles away, and when I went looking for friends, I found a bit of frustration, shame, where some went to simply bitch out how lucky they were married.
I moved on. I started writing poetry, lyrics to existing melodies, dance, sing, and published my poetry online.
During Covid, I submitted my first poetry to cosmofunnel.com, a poetry website contest. After 3 nominations, i won second .
I published my first book 5 years ago, entitled 'Flexuousities of Life'
1. This second poetry book, 'PLAYLISTS TO SURVIVAL', is a collection of poems that rose from my harried heart and soul. It is characterized by ardent musicality inspired by music, dance, places I've been to, food, love of friends and family, resilience, and personal struggle. The aims are to raise awareness and provide support for those affected by cancer, a cause that is deeply personal to me after navigating the immense, concurrent challenges of cancer treatment and divorce.
2. Recording of 'THIRST'. (Symphony to Survive)
Music and poetry intertwined. They both stem from the same, primal human 'utterances' of emotion. I believe music is a 'mental jukebox', a curated personal playlists of songs that bring comfort and joy. It helps me in tough times.
In 2024, I wrote lyrics to existing melody. Together with 2 singers. I submitted it to the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland, representing 6 countries including the Netherlands. Unfortunately, we were not selected.
The title 'THIRST' extends beyond the simple need for water. It describes a strong desire for something, such as thirst for love, power, or attention.
In the Bible, it means actual pursuit of moral and spiritual wholeness. Matthew 5:6
I am currently preparing to record 'THIRST' . This project is a crucial step in my life, aiming to recapture a sound that has already resonated with growing fanbase on social media.
I am therefore, seeking donation to cover the costs of editing, printing, distribution, a book launch event, and a concert on my 70th birthday, making it my most unforgettable birthday ever.
Your support would directly enable the production and widespread distribution of this important message;
to cover producer fees, artist, mastering costs, and studio time.
HOW I DISCOVERED I HAVE BREAST CANCER?
I was taking a bath when I felt a lump in my left breast. It turned out to be malignant and underwent both chemo and 28 sessions of radiation. After a year and wasn't finished with radiations yet, I discovered another lump in my right breast.