We chat to Josie about how writing a book has helped her to express herself and connect with others.
Future Pathways supported Josie to complete and publish her book, ‘Finally Back to My Routes’.
Josie had been writing for years. Writing helped Josie to express herself through some of the most difficult times of her life. Josie never thought anything would come from her writing. This changed when her daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer. Before passing away, Josie’s daughter spoke to Josie about finishing her book. Josie was determined to finish her book for her children.
Accessing her care records helped Josie stitch together the story of her past. Josie also learned that she had a sister she had never met before. Josie and her sister have now been able to meet.
“All of the story was in my records. Everything came flooding out.”
Josie would write for hours. Future Pathways supported Josie to finish and publish her book with the Book Whisperers, a service that provides writing support.
“I surprised myself. It was a brilliant experience. I could get rid of all my anxiety and stress. I would just focus on writing.”
Josie is now a published author. To celebrate, she had a book signing event with family and friends. Writing ‘Finally Back to My Routes,’ allowed Josie to be completely truthful about her past with her loved ones. Her friends and family now know her as someone who is always laughing and joking.
“That old life is gone now. I love my life now. I am in a happier place. I am more ‘me’. And my kids are so proud of me.”
Find out more
Josie’s book is available to buy on Amazon here.
You can also read a longer article about Josie’s support from Future Pathways in the Experiences section of our website.
