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Sometimes people who have been married for a long time know that the years can leave love a little flat. But anyone who has faced their partner’s cancer will tell you that the diagnosis sharpens that love into a high relief. Such was the case for David Hallman when his partner of 33 years, Bill Conklin, was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer in August 2009. Conklin died at home 16 days later.

Hallman wrote about Conklin’s diagnosis and their last days together in August Farewell, interspersing it with scenes from their long relationship, in order, he says, to pin the memories down. “Those weeks were so intense and spiritual and profound,” he says. “Being able to support each other in that time was our last great gift of love to each other.”

To watch Hallman talk about the book, or for ordering instructions, visit at davidghallman.com