Why Not Me?

by Tammy Cranston

In three short years, Tammy's life was flipped upside down-she went from planning a wedding to planning a funeral. Tammy admits that if God had told her what would happen after marrying Larry, she may have hesitated, questioning God's plan and her ability to walk through the hard times ahead. However, God knew what He was doing, as He always does. "Why Not Me?" is the story of Larry and Tammy Smestad's quest to live life to the fullest and enjoy the time God gave them while living with cancer. It is a story of loyalty, love, and loss, but ultimately it is a story of faith in a loving God who comforts us and gives us hope when we earnestly seek Him.

172 pages, Paperback

Published October 21, 2015

Reviews

[Merritt Kane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tammy’s story broke my heart and lifted my spirit at the same time. Her honesty about love, loss, and faith made me reflect on my own life and relationships. I felt like I was walking through every heartbreak and triumph with her. This book is a raw, yet inspiring testament to the power of God’s presence in the darkest moments.

[Carol gift · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect to cry so much while reading this, but Tammy’s vulnerability is extraordinary. Her journey from planning a wedding to planning a funeral is heartbreaking, yet filled with hope. I felt every emotion with her fear, sorrow, courage, and faith. Her story is a reminder to cherish every day with the people we love.

[Monica Heisey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why Not Me? by Tammy Cranston is a deeply moving and faith-filled testimony of love, loss, and unwavering trust in God. With honesty and tenderness, Tammy opens her heart to readers, inviting us into one of life’s most painful journeys and showing us how faith can remain strong even when the future feels unbearable.

What makes this book so powerful is its sincerity. Tammy doesn’t shy away from grief, fear, or difficult questions. Instead, she meets them head-on with courage and grace, reminding us that God’s presence does not disappear in suffering it becomes even more real. Her love for Larry shines through every page, making their story not only heartbreaking, but beautifully inspiring.

This is not just a story about cancer or loss; it is a story about choosing hope, cherishing every moment, and trusting God’s purpose even when we don’t understand it. Tammy’s words will comfort anyone walking through grief, illness, or uncertainty, and they will strengthen the faith of readers searching for reassurance that God is still near.

Why Not Me? is a gentle yet powerful reminder that even in our darkest seasons, love endures, faith sustains, and God’s promises remain true. Tammy Cranston has written a book that encourages, uplifts, and leaves a lasting imprint on the heart.

[Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why Not Me? by Tammy Cranston is a courageous and grace-filled reflection on love, loss, and trusting God through life’s most painful trials. Tammy shares her journey with remarkable openness, allowing readers to witness not only her heartbreak but also the quiet strength that comes from surrendering to God’s will.

What stands out most is the authenticity of her voice. This is not a polished or distant story it is real, raw, and deeply human. Tammy’s love for Larry is evident in every memory she shares, making their time together feel precious and sacred. Through her words, readers are reminded that even when life changes in ways we never imagined, God’s faithfulness remains unshaken.

This book offers comfort to those walking through grief and reassurance to anyone questioning God’s plan in the midst of suffering. Why Not Me? doesn’t promise easy answers, but it gently points readers toward hope, healing, and the peace that comes from trusting a loving God.

Tammy Cranston has written a testimony that will strengthen hearts, inspire faith, and remind readers that God never wastes our pain. This is a book that stays with you long after the final page.

[Jennifer Smith]

Why Not Me?" is not just a book it is a testament of courage, faith, and the unbreakable human spirit. Tammy, your story moved me to tears. The way you and Larry faced unimaginable pain with unwavering faith and love is nothing short of extraordinary. I felt every heartbreak, every moment of doubt, and every triumph of hope as if I were walking alongside you.

This book is a reminder that life’s hardest moments can be the very ones that teach us the depth of God’s love, the power of loyalty, and the beauty of living fully even when the path is filled with grief. Your words have left a mark on my heart, inspiring me to embrace every day with gratitude and courage.

Thank you, Tammy, for sharing your journey so openly. You have not only honored Larry’s memory but have also given hope and strength to anyone facing life’s trials. 'Why Not Me?' will stay with me forever, a guiding light through my own storms.

[John Gwynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading 'Why Not Me?' has changed the way I see life. Tammy, your story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of unimaginable pain, we can choose faith, hope, and love. You and Larry showed what it truly means to live intentionally to treasure every moment, to fight for joy, and to lean on God when the weight of life feels unbearable.

This book motivates me to stop waiting for the 'perfect moment' and to embrace life fully, no matter the circumstances. Your courage is contagious, your faith is inspiring, and your love story is unforgettable. 'Why Not Me?' doesn’t just tell a story, it challenges us to rise above fear, to trust in God’s plan, and to live boldly, even when life is hardest.

Thank you, Tammy, for sharing such a raw, real, and uplifting journey. I will carry its lessons with me every day.

[Emilia Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why Not Me? is a deeply moving yet surprisingly uplifting read. Tammy Cranston writes with such honesty and warmth that even in the face of profound loss, her story feels hopeful and motivating rather than heavy. Her faith shines through every page not as something forced, but as a steady light that carries her through love, illness, and grief.

What makes this book so powerful is its balance: it acknowledges pain while still celebrating life, love, and purpose. Tammy’s journey with Larry is tender, courageous, and inspiring, reminding readers to cherish time, trust God’s plan, and live fully no matter the circumstances.

This is a heartfelt testimony of resilience and faith that leaves you encouraged, comforted, and quietly strengthened. A beautiful, hope-filled read for anyone walking through hard seasons or simply needing a reminder that joy and meaning can still be found. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

[James Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tammy, reading 'Why Not Me?' felt like holding a mirror up to life itself raw, fragile, and breathtakingly beautiful. Your journey through love, loss, and faith shook me to my core. I laughed, I cried, and I paused to breathe, realizing how fleeting and precious every moment truly is.

This book isn’t just a story; it’s a call to live intentionally, to love fiercely, and to trust God even when the path seems impossible. Your courage and authenticity inspire me to face my own challenges with hope, to embrace life fully, and to find grace in the hardest moments.

Thank you for turning heartbreak into a beacon of light. 'Why Not Me?' is more than a book, it is a gift to anyone who has ever dared to hope in the midst of pain.

[Bolu Opake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why Not Me?’ is more than a book it is a wake up call to live courageously. Tammy, your journey through heartbreak and faith is a testament that even when life shatters us, we can still rise stronger, love deeper, and find purpose in every moment. Reading your story made me reflect on my own life and the way I face challenges, reminding me that strength isn’t the absence of struggle, but the choice to keep moving forward with hope.

This book ignites a fire in the heart, encouraging us to trust God’s plan, embrace every precious day, and never take love or life for granted. ‘Why Not Me?’ motivates, uplifts, and inspires a rare story that will stay with me long after the last page is turned.

[J.A. JANCE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why Not Me?’ touched my soul in a way I can’t put into words. Tammy, your courage to walk through unimaginable pain while holding onto faith is awe-inspiring. This book isn’t just about loss it’s about resilience, love, and the power of hope.

Reading your story reminded me that life is fragile, time is precious, and every moment is a gift. It motivates me to face my own challenges with bravery, to love more deeply, and to trust that even in our darkest seasons, God has a plan. ‘Why Not Me?’ is a guide for anyone who wants to live fully, love without limits, and find strength when life feels unbearable.

[Shadrach · Rating 5 out of 5]

This memoir is incredibly moving. The way Tammy trusted God while caring for Larry through his illness shows strength, loyalty, and love that is rare to find. Her reflections on grief and hope inspired me to look at my own challenges differently. A book that truly stays with you long after the last page.

[Laila Buckley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this felt like being beside Tammy during her most difficult years. She doesn’t shy away from the pain of loss, but she also shows the blessings that can emerge from hardship. Her faith in God’s plan is humbling and uplifting. I finished this book feeling more hopeful and reflective about my own life.

[Christine Halvorson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tammy’s courage is astounding. Her love story with Larry is heartbreaking, but it’s also a testament to the power of faith and perseverance. She openly shares the ups and downs, the joys and the grief, making her story authentic and relatable. I recommend this book to anyone navigating loss or seeking hope.

[Eugene Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was deeply touched by Tammy’s story of resilience. The book beautifully balances grief and hope, showing that even when life feels unbearable, God’s love remains constant. Her vulnerability and honesty make this memoir powerful and inspiring. I feel like I learned a lot about faith and human strength.

[Priscilla Dorcas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most heartfelt memoirs I’ve ever read. Tammy’s honesty about grief and her reflections on faith and love made me pause and appreciate the people and moments I sometimes take for granted.

[Lachlan Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tammy’s story is beautifully written, honest, and full of heart. Her journey through loss, love, and faith inspired me to reflect on my own life and embrace every moment. I highly recommend this memoir to anyone seeking hope and comfort.

[Callum Fraser · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is heartwarming and deeply inspiring. Tammy’s account of her journey through love and loss reminded me that faith can provide strength even when everything seems impossible. I will carry her lessons with me for a long time.

[Kathleen Ken · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully moving story that combines faith, love, and resilience. Tammy shares her deepest emotions in a way that feels authentic and relatable. This book gave me comfort and encouragement.

[Everett Lang · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tammy’s courage and openness are inspiring. Her journey with Larry through illness and grief shows the power of love and faith. I felt both heartbroken and uplifted reading this memoir.

[Renji Kato · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tammy’s story is unforgettable. It shows how love, faith, and perseverance can sustain us through life’s hardest challenges. Her memoir is a beautiful example of courage and trust in God’s plan.

[Lucien Durant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was profoundly moved by Tammy’s story. Her honesty about pain and grief is paired with a deep faith that offers hope to anyone reading this book. I felt encouraged and uplifted, and it gave me a new perspective on handling my own challenges.

[Paul Hartford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Why Not Me? was a profound experience. Tammy’s raw honesty, courage, and unwavering faith make this a book that touches the soul. It is both heartbreaking and hopeful a memoir that will stay with me forever.Tammy CranstonTammy CranstonWhy Not Me?