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Rearranged at Kaneko. Image provided by Mark Gilbert.

Rearranged at Kaneko. Image provided by Mark Gilbert.

By Gabriel Escalera

Kathleen Watt: A Journey of Resilience and Self-Discovery

March 27th, 2024

 

At the age of 43, Kathleen Watt, a seasoned professional opera singer, confronted a life-altering diagnosis: osteogenic sarcoma, a form of bone cancer, nestled behind her cheekbone. Despite undergoing multiple surgeries that successfully eradicated the tumor, the lingering physical scars reshaped her perception of self.

Mark Gilbert, an Associate Professor of Art, Art History, and Medical Humanities at UNO, has shared a longstanding connection with Watt. Witnessing her resilience firsthand, Gilbert has been a stalwart supporter throughout her journey.

Turning to alternative avenues for expression, Watt rediscovered her passion for writing—a pursuit she had cultivated alongside her operatic career. In her latest literary endeavor, “Rearranged,” Watt delves deep into the intricacies of transient beauty and the profound quest for self-acceptance following her battle with cancer.

This Friday at 6 pm, Kaneko in Omaha will host an evening with Kathleen Watt. In collaboration with The Bookworm, Mark Gilbert will moderate an engaging session encompassing a reading, discussion, Q&A, and book signing. Join us as we celebrate Watt’s resilience and embark on a journey of introspection and empowerment.