Jeff Kallis

Retired after more than 39 years at Mayo Clinic, I started diving into my family's ancestry. While mulling over how to put together an ancestry document that tells the story in pictures as well as words, I realized that I love to write. Sixty-eight pages later, the manuscript of my first book, "Puppy Talk", was complete.

Our son, Caleb, added a new family member to our home, Remi, in March 2021. Remi and Grandpa have spent a lot of time together since then. Our conversations have been many and wide-ranging. That led to my first published book, "Puppy Talk: Conversations Between Grandpa and His Son's Puppy - Remi". The illustration for the book cover was created by Dr. Lawrence (Larry) Peterson, Rochester, Minnesota.

In January 2023, I was diagnosed with kidney cancer - renal cell carcinoma. A life-changing event, I decided to write a book about that experience as well.

In October 2023, I published my second book, "Twin Votes: Close But Far Apart". The book takes a light-hearted look into whether fraternal twins have a gene that they carry around that determines which political party they support and how they will vote.

In November 2023, I published my third book, "One Kidney: Dealing with Kidney Cancer".

Most importantly, my wife Cindy and I have three sons (our3sons). They are all out making a name for themselves or in college hoping to make a difference in this world. After 32 years of marriage, Cindy and I are going strong.

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Quotes from people who have read my book, "One Kidney - Dealing with Kidney Cancer", that have asked to remain anonymous include:

1) November 22, 2023

I couldn’t put your book down. Nice job. On so many levels. You offer an honest, frank description of your journey with cancer. I really appreciated that. That was helpful. I am amazed at the sheer volume of information and statistics and tables of information. What a great collection of facts about this cancer. Excellent work.

2) May 16, 2024

Super impressed with your writing style. Very engaging. And, the information for others in your similar situation is priceless. Taking ownership in being up-to-date and informed is so important. It really allows you to ask the right questions. Really appreciate you putting this down in print.

3) July 28, 2024

It is so well written – even though it had my head spinning with all the medical jargon! I can see it was very therapeutic and helpful for you to write the book. Everyone with cancer should read it. Happy that you shared your faith / beliefs as well.