In the spring of 1990, Midge Rylander rushes to the hospital because of a persistent cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath. She believes she has pneumonia but her diagnosis turns out to be much worse. Malignant pleural mesothelioma. Lung cancer from prior exposure to asbestos.

Midge's doctors advise her that she has less than eighteen months left to live. While recuperating at home, Midge begins a daily journal to document her experiences during her final months. Eighteen Months To Live is the transcription of Midge's handwritten journal as well as letters that Midge wrote to her daughter Rachele during that time. Midge writes about her emotional struggles, her physical pain, and her search for answers.

After reading Eighteen Months To Live, E.D. Brady wrote in her review on Goodreads that this true story "shows a woman who handled herself with grace, poise, and dignity, as she tells of her daily trials and tribulations, her refusal to go down without a fight, and finally, her acceptance of the inevitable. It highlights the beauty of the human spirit, the vulnerability of life, and the need to remember that every day is precious. I found myself quickly bonding with Midge and commend Ms. Baker for putting this beautiful book out in the world for those who may be facing similar struggles. One word of advice: have a tissue or two ready for the epilogue."