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"Writing is just something one does. Living your life joyfully is who you are." Ann Bennett Cookson
Mainely Writing
Ann Bennett Cookson, Author
Welcome to my Website
Hi, I'm Ann. I am a writer, mother, grandmother, literacy volunteer, and mom who lost a daughter to substance use disorder. My first book was born through loss and grief. My second book was born through healing and love for children. My third book, currently in the works is born through the need to continue my fight for awareness and the continuous need of reducing the stigma attached to addiction and offer hope.
I am a mother of a child who died by overdose, but I refuse to allow grief and loss to define me.
My Life Philosophy
Be open to possibilities, willing to forgive, cultivate love rather than hate, listen more, judge less, be curious about everything, learn acceptance, and fill your life with people and activities that bring you joy!
"Writing is just something one does. Living your life joyfully is who you are." Ann Bennett Cookson
Secrets: A Story of Addiction, Grief & Healing
Breaking the silence! Using Sarah's journals, our words mingled as one. Her voice would be heard!
When a child dies, no matter what the cause, grief can be paralyzing, overwhelming. However, with an overdose death, the stigma attached to addiction often induces emotions that a grieving parent should not have to experience. Slowly, I came to realize it is possible to survive heartrending loss such as this. A memoir of loss and the journey towards healing.
Available here and on Amazon.
Projects
This book is being written by parents who have experienced firsthand the devastating effects on their families surrounding substance use and mental health disorders.
You Are Not Alone: Offering Hope
Substance Use Disorder-The Family Connection
We are two moms who have been profoundly impacted by addiction. The stirrings of writing this book together emerged as our friendship strengthened. We each felt the need to voice our convictions, to speak out to a broader audience the truths we have experienced regarding addiction. We realized the importance of offering a text that enlarged upon the problems that families and those in the active throes of addiction face. We desired to write a book that not just spoke clinically or shared dreadful stories, but also offered hope and solace.
Facebook Support & Awareness
Faces of Addiction
This is a Facebook page to promote awareness and to provide updates on the progression of my current project. As we complete this book our hope is that families will be given the opportunity to gain some insight and perspective on a loved one who struggles with substance use disorder.
Taking Care of Our Health
Addiction is complicated and does not discriminate Regardless of financial status, race, gender or age, the harmful effects of trauma and mental health challenges are real. But that does not mean it is hopeless. We do have the power to manage lifestyles while seeking methods to manage stress and life challenges. It is okay to reach out for help.
Importance of self-care and healthful habits.
Cultivating mindfulness and the connection between mental health, trauma and substance use.
Contact Me
Get in touch if have questions about our literary endeavors, for updates on new releases, or if you'd like to share your story. I also offer proofreading services. Include your name, email and a brief message explaining your reason for contacting Mainely Writing. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you for visiting Mainely Writing!
