I founded Onyx Ink Press because after a decade as an ICU nurse and my own journey through a season of medical upheaval, I was struck by this realization. While every medical diagnosis is different, the emotional architecture of survival is universal and the psychological terrain we must cross remains the same.
My “WHY” is to bridge the gap between clinical trauma and emotional understanding and healing. Through my books, I aim to name The Survival Gap -to shed light on the invisible process of medical crisis, stripping away the guilt and mystery of the ‘trauma brain’, so parents finally understand the science behind their own survival response. And to equip their ‘village’ with a clear roadmap on how to provide the right support at the right time while these families unpack.
I have identified three phases of The Survival Gap: 1. The Anatomy of Survival Mode, 2. The Remission Crash, and 3. The Paradox of Guilt. My writing is rooted in compassion and a deep desire to support families navigating medical trauma. Through my stories, I explore themes of attachment, resilience, and sibling support.
My books – including The Aftermath: A Book on Attachment with NICU and Surrogate Babies, When the Dust Settles; My Child is in Remission, Now What? And The Secret Signal series – are inspired by my own journey through a high-risk pregnancy, my daughter’s NICU stay, and the experiences of close friends facing childhood leukemia.
I believe vulnerability is at the heart of every meaningful story. My work aims to normalize complex emotions, reduce shame, and provide practical, age-appropriate tools that help children and caregivers feel seen, understood and supported. By blending research with real-life experience, I am creating resources that empower families and the communities around them.
Originally from Salmon Arm, British Columbia, Canada, I currently live in St. Louis, Missouri with my husband and two children Winfield and Esme. When I’m not writing, I enjoy traveling, hiking, staying active, and spending time outdoors with my family. I am deeply grateful to my husband, Darius Dashtaki, for his unwavering support and encouragement throughout my writing journey.
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