Hey Friends, 

It seems that everyone has a book lately, especially in the world of self-publishing. And, given that I had trauma from writing a dissertation, I certainly had no desire to ever write a book. 

Then, my friend, R.J. Gillespie, MD, approached me and said, “Hey, how about writing a book about the work we’re doing?” R.J. is a pioneer in ACEs Screening and I have dedicated the past seven years to creating a curriculum for pediatricians about how we can respond to early adversity. Together, we’re quite the powerhouse; and I’m so grateful for R.J.’s expertise, friendship, and willingness to partner. 

As we considered who/where to submit our idea of a book to, we decided to shoot for the moon. After all, our audience is pediatricians and healthcare providers. So, we submitted our book idea to The American Academy of Pediatrics. And they said yes!!

Over a year later, our book is now available for pre-order. Seeing the cover in print, a link to the AAP and Amazon (I have a book on Amazon!!!), was incredible. I felt honored, humbled, excited, giddy, overwhelmed with joy, and relief. Mostly, the relief that we’re almost done, if I’m honest. 

Don’t get me wrong, this book NEEDS to be out in the world. R.J. and I even scoffed at the idea that we had to wait SO LONG for this book to be published and available. I firmly believe that EVERY healthcare provider and professional who works with kids should read this book! But writing a book as a mom, wife, and full-time psychologist was exhausting! The other feeling of relief is this – NOW WE CAN DO THE HARD WORK!! Our book: The Trauma-Informed Pediatric Practice: A resilience-based roadmap to foster early relational health, will be available in June, but you can pre-order it now. Our book walks you step by step through created trauma-informed, resilience-building practices in pediatric and healthcare spaces. Let’s do this!

And, if it wasn’t already surreal – here’s part of the forward from Dr. Andy Garner: 

In the hands of Gillespie and King, what may seem like an overwhelming undertaking becomes one that we can—and must—undertake to fully support the health and wellbeing of children.

Friends, I’m still pinching myself. I cannot wait to talk more about this work we’re doing. Let’s walk through this roadmap together and create MORE trauma-informed spaces for children and families. 

Together, we can do this! 

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