Microsoft Word in dock but not responding how to fix?

I have been using Microsoft Word for the past year for a document Ive been composing but now it is not responding when I click on W in dock. I receive message "Microsoft (Word) not responding" how can I fix this? It has never been a problem before. I'm using the 2007 Version as I prefer this. This is very important Im on a deadline to complete. All help welcome thanks, John