1 November 2015 – a year ago today, I launched my first born book, Accidental Aid Worker, at my home, with friends. What a year it has been!

These past 12 months, I have committed myself to getting me and my story out to the world. Being self published, self employed (and not earning as a consultant), a solo woman and without a team or support. I have invested as much as I can of myself to this enormous, complex and worthy story. YES, I believe my story, experiences and messages are worthy and of value to humanity. I believe that they are important, have integrity, heart and are worthy of sharing in this way.

It has not been easy. Far, far from easy.

There have been many dips in the road and shitty happenings along the way. This has been a cleanser of a year. I have done what I wanted to do – make changes that stick. I have really sorted out where I am and who I’m with in the world moving forward. I have FOUND my voice, gained clarity and made a new commitment to my values, hold those values dear, and with absolute integrity.

To explore what it means to write and publish – I sacrificed a lot too, investing creativity, effort, drive, money and energy to:

• organise and deliver 22 x author talks, with 10 scheduled next year (so far) including 2 x NSW regional speaking tours (Northern NSW tour scheduled for next year);
• give 5 radio interviews – 5 on ABC Radio and 1 on 2GB, plus clippings galore;
• OMG… Tom Keneally and Professor Dame Marie Bashir’s endorsement on my book, and launch of my 3rd reprint. – watch the speech at the launch by Sue and Professor Bashir here;
•  print 2 Editions / 3 reprints – totalling Q:1000 books;
• secure distribution by Dennis Jones & Associates and respectable sales via bookstores and throughout in libraries all around Australia;
• develop very respectable relationships with industry professionals, fellow authors and self publishers, libraries and associations;
• potentially write and deliver workshops next year;
• achieve personal sales of the book and cards to raise funds for my causes and support of other communities include: STARTTS , Sydney Development Circle and HandUp Congo;
• gain appreciation, support and feedback from readers across the world.

WAS THE EFFORT WORTH IT? Will I continue to write and publish and where to from here?

One step at a time, and only time will tell. My most urgent need is to get back to the work that earns me a living as a business, marketing and communications consultant – the Chiefette of Zulu Communications and start the final season for Candles for Community – Christmas 2016 Campaign.

Accidental Aid Worker has been a blessing in my life and I hope it will continue to be embraced, educate, inspire, amuse and give people pause to consider “who am I, where am I going and what can I do?”

This is a real and raw story about taking on life with the spirit of adventure, striving to maintain integrity in the face of loss and adversity and the power of connection and community.

GIVING BACK TO COMMUNITY IN EVERYTHING I DO

When you purchase your copy of Accidental Aid Worker directly from me, you’ll receive a personalised, signed copy of the 3rd reprint edition of Accidental Aid Worker that features Tom Keneally and Professor Dame Marie Bashir’s comments on the cover. It comes with a complimentary gift card, bookmark and numbered puzzle token. $5 will be donated to a community project.

Purchase online here at the shop

To those who have read my story: Thank you for taking the time to read, for prioritising this in your busy lives. It means a hell of a lot to me. Thank you to so many of you who have stood close and not let me fall, particularly in these last 12 months since making my life so public. It’s a test of your character as well, to stand in the eye of the storm with me. I celebrate you – and your courage to do so.