Survivors of the devastating 2018 Camp Fire have come together to share their trauma recovery strategies in a new book titled Sifting Through The Ashes. Released in commemoration of the fifth anniversary of the tragic event, this collection of stories offers self-care tips, advice on recovering from trauma, and a step-by-step guide to overall recovery.
Darla Gale, CEO and Founder of Heartstring Counseling, played a key role in the creation of the book. As a resident of Sacramento, Gale felt compelled to help the trauma survivors and used her non-profit organization to provide counseling services to those in need. Recognizing the unique experiences of each survivor, Gale saw an opportunity to honor their stories while also offering clinical guidance and mental health interventions through the book.
According to Gale, one common thread among most survivors is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She describes PTSD as a prison in your brain, where sights, sounds, and smells associated with the traumatic event become trapped. However, Gale wants survivors to know that PTSD does not have to be a lifelong sentence and aims to provide them with the tools necessary to regulate their trauma.
The book, Sifting Through The Ashes, aims to offer support to fire victims by sharing the stories of like-minded survivors who have been through similar experiences. By reading the book, survivors can gain valuable insights and tips on navigating their own recovery journeys.
What makes this book even more impactful is that all the profits generated from its sales will go to Heartstrings Counseling Crisis and Disaster Program. This program provides free counseling sessions to trauma survivors and first responders, ensuring that those in need have access to the help they require.
This book serves as a beacon of hope for survivors of the Camp Fire, offering them guidance, support, and a sense of unity as they continue to recover from the trauma they endured. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of these individuals and a reminder that healing is possible, even after the most devastating of events.
