With my own life experiences as the needle, I threaded the words and characters in Rocks and Stinky Socks together. My book shares the value of overcoming obstacles through embracing community and diversity, where stinky socks fit somewhere in between, too. This tapestry of words took years to perfect, though years will not measure the infinite impacts one story can hold.

My personal journey with chronic illness has moved me to give back to the field that changed my future and my life's trajectory. 

My book has reached the hands of pediatric patients in fifty hospitals across America, one in each state. I find deep purpose in knowing that my battles can help other children fight theirs, too.

Another beautiful reminder:

During college admissions, I've realized that there is an overwhelming and unrealistic standard for students to volunteer, start non-profits, and "give back". What colleges don't bring up, however, is that giving back often entails money. I spent roughly $890 from my $5,000 EPA scholarship check to fund these hospital book donations. I want everyone reading this to remember this: doing the dishes for your mother holds equal value as donating a million dollars, for it is something that needs to be done. After all, the dishes don't do themselves! Don't you ever, EVER forget that small deeds speak the loudest... for small deeds reveal your character in a way that grand donations can never. If you are not yet in the circumstances to donate or start a charity, I hope you never compare yourself to someone who is. I have been there before. Your life experiences, whether it be cooking for your siblings or helping your parents, hold equal meaning as starting a charity. 

May you never feel pressured to donate or do something merely for the sake of the college application process. People talk about "hooks" and "spikes", but you my friend, are neither a pirate nor a porcupine. You are a human being with a beautiful and valuable set of life experiences. So rock on in whatever way you rock!! Embrace your life's story like it's your own (well, it is!).

My first-ever book signing was at my pediatrician's clinic!! Dr. Janet Pate, my pediatrician, has educated me greatly on how to manage my disease. Now, every time I go for checkups, I see Rocks and Stinky Socks on the bookshelf!

My book is available internationally in over 20 retail stores and in countries like South Africa, Belgium, Japan, and Germany... to name a few!

 Within the U.S., my book can be purchased at Barnes and Noble, Walmart, Target, Magers & Quinns, and Amazon, amongst other stores.