In 1962, in a small shack meant to be a fresh start for my mother, tragedy struck, forever altering the course of our lives. What was supposed to be a new beginning turned into a nightmare that tore our family apart. Children were separated, and a father, lost in his own world, forgot he had a family. This devastating event would haunt us for many years.
I have lived under three names throughout my life: Joanne Schickler, also known as Joanne Bard, and Joey Pawlin. I was born on May 22, 1954, in Kitchener, Ontario, and am the proud mother of two grown children.
My story, Four Lost Children, was first written 23 years ago. It was during a major surgery, when a doctor removed a tumor near my lung and close to my heart, that I felt an overwhelming urge to finally rewrite this tale—once and for all. I am honored to share my journey with you through this four-volume series. I hope you find meaning and reflection within its pages.
“FOUR LOST CHILDREN” by Joanne Bard is a poignant and deeply moving non-fiction account that delves into the harrowing experiences of a family torn apart by tragedy. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Ontario, this memoir captures the raw emotions and enduring scars left by a mother’s untimely death and a father’s abandonment. Through the eyes of Joanne, the second eldest child, readers are taken on a journey of loss, resilience, and the quest for understanding amidst unimaginable pain.
On a bitterly cold day in February 1962, Joanne and her siblings’ lives are irrevocably changed when their mother takes her own life. Left to navigate a world of confusion and sorrow, the children are separated and sent to live with various relatives. Joanne’s narrative vividly recounts the emotional turmoil of losing both parents in a matter of days and the subsequent struggle to find stability and love in a fractured family. As she grows up, Joanne grapples with the haunting memories of her past, seeking answers and healing. “ Children” is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the power of love and resilience in the face of profound adversity.
“Divided We Fell” by Joanne Bard is a gripping and heart-wrenching memoir that delves into the tumultuous life of the author, marked by a series of harrowing experiences and relentless struggles. From a childhood marred by abuse and neglect to a series of tumultuous relationships and personal battles, Bard’s story is one of resilience and survival against all odds. The book takes readers on an emotional journey through the author’s life, exploring themes of family dysfunction, betrayal, and the quest for love and acceptance. With raw honesty and vivid storytelling, Bard recounts her experiences of enduring physical and emotional abuse, navigating the complexities of broken relationships, and facing the devastating diagnosis of cancer. “ Divided We Fell” is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring hope for a better future. This powerful narrative will resonate with readers who have faced their own adversities and inspire those seeking to overcome life’s challenges. A compelling read, this memoir is a poignant reminder of the resilience within us all.
“Joey VS Frauds” by Joanne Bard is a gripping and heart-wrenching account of one woman’s relentless battle against online fraudsters. This compelling narrative delves into the dark world of internet scams, where predators prey on the vulnerable, manipulating their emotions and finances. Joanne Bard, a 68-year-old cancer survivor, courageously shares her personal journey of being defrauded by cunning schemers who posed as romantic interests. Through her vivid storytelling, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of betrayal, loss, and the fight for justice. Bard’s experience highlights the devastating impact of identity theft and romance fraud, shedding light on the psychological and financial toll it takes on victims. This book is not just a memoir but a call to action, urging readers to be vigilant and protect themselves from similar fates. “ Joey VS Frauds” is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of online fraud and the resilience required to overcome it. Download a free sample today and join Joanne Bard in her mission to expose the truth and reclaim her life.
