Clarksville, TN – Christina Reyes, an Austin Peay State University alumna, faced a life-changing challenge during her college years. Diagnosed with necrotizing fasciitis, a rare but severe bacterial infection, she spent a year in the hospital. Now, she shares her journey of survival and self-discovery in her new book, Heartbeat.
Reyes started college with dreams of becoming a journalist. But her illness forced her to step back from school, causing frustration and disappointment. “That was my second year when it happened,” she recalled. Fortunately, her professors provided much-needed support during her recovery. She found strength in writing, keeping a journal that helped her process her experiences.
“That journal was a vulnerable space for me,” she said. It became a crucial tool for her as she began to write Heartbeat, reflecting on both her physical battle and her emotional growth.
In her book, Reyes emphasizes the lessons learned during those tough hospital days. “It’s about dealing with not just the illness, but also my heart,” she shared. This profound time reshaped her outlook on life. Her journey taught her the importance of faith and perseverance.
Reyes developed a love for writing through encouragement from her college professors. “One professor kept my paper as an example because it ranked so highly,” she said. That recognition fueled her passion for storytelling. Drawing from her own experiences, she aims to connect with readers. “When you pick up a book and feel the vulnerability, that’s when it comes to life,” she explained.
Despite the hardships, Reyes views her hospitalization as a transformative experience. She encourages others to trust their journeys and recognize that they aren’t alone. “God is constant and loving, walking alongside us,” she affirmed.
Recent research shows the healing power of sharing personal stories. According to a 2022 study by Dr. James Pennebaker, a psychology professor at the University of Texas, expressive writing can significantly improve mental and physical health. Sharing experiences, like Reyes does in her book, helps many people process trauma and build resilience.
Christina Reyes’s narrative is more than just a story of survival. It’s about finding strength, faith, and the power of words. Her journey inspires many to seek their own voices, especially in difficult times.
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