Teen writes poetry to cope with loss of legs

06:59 PM CDT on Sunday, June 26, 2005

By JOHN PRONK / WFAA-TV

DALLAS - Young poet Delecia Ransom held her first book signing at the Children's Book Boutique in Dallas Sunday.

At the age of 18, Ransom has seen more than her share of troubles. However, even with the loss of her legs a few years ago, Ransom refused to let those problems set her back.

Instead, the teen relied on her faith and began to write poetry to cope with her loss.

"When she was first diagnosed she said mom don't worry God's got my back," said Donna Ransom, Delecia's mother. "He'll help us get through this."

She has written hundreds of poems and already has two published books of poetry.

"Poetry is how I get from day to day," Delecia Ransom said. "Writing for me became a serious source of coping. I started writing about everyday issues."

Ransom said she isn't stopping at two books and plans to publish more in the future.

Delecia also said she hopes to go to college and eventually become a psychologist. However, she will always have her poetry.

E-mail jpronk@wfaa.com