Sheila J. Brooks, RN, BSN, is an award-winning author, accomplished poet, and sought-after speaker with a passion for empowering others through her words and work. A native of New York City, Sheila resided in Mount Vernon, N.Y. for 41 years, where she raised her two children and cultivated a life dedicated to service and creativity.
Initially pursuing a voice major at a prestigious high school, Sheila ultimately found her true calling in nursing. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing and embarked on a healthcare career in 1979, providing compassionate care to those in need. Her deep understanding of caregiving and human resilience became instrumental when she authored her memoir, On the Receiving End, serving as a foundation for her impactful storytelling and offering readers an authentic and heartfelt perspective on her life.
Beyond her work in healthcare, Sheila is a published poet and skilled voice-over artist whose creative endeavors amplify her unique voice. An engaging public speaker, she is frequently invited to share her expertise and experiences at conferences, book signings, women’s empowerment events, and on podcasts.
When she’s not writing or speaking, Sheila enjoys cooking, baking, and doting on her beloved 13-year-old cat, Little Boy. Her dedication to care, creativity, and community continues to inspire those around her.
This one-on-one interview shares Sheila’s background and experience writing On the Receiving End: A Memoir of a Nurse Who Met, Tackled, and Overcame Insurmountable Obstacles.
Tell us about On the Receiving End: A Memoir of a Nurse Who Met, Tackled, and Overcame Insurmountable Obstacles.
On the Receiving End chronicles my triumphant journey through seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Born on Friday the 13th, I grew up as an only child in a household filled with conflict. My father, a deacon, often directed harsh accusations toward my mother, an evangelist, creating an environment fraught with tension and sadness.
My teenage years brought their own set of challenges, including severe mononucleosis that landed me in the hospital for urgent surgery. Yet, despite the hardships, I remained determined to find a better life. My acceptance into nursing school was a turning point that gave me hope and a newfound purpose.
Marriage and motherhood brought joy, but also new struggles. My son’s health issues, an ectopic pregnancy, and the complications that followed tested my resolve. Each chapter of my life seemed to present a new obstacle, yet I refused to give up.
Throughout my life, I’ve faced countless emotional, physical, and psychological challenges, but I’ve also learned the power of faith, resilience, and perseverance. My story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that no matter how overwhelming life may seem, we all have the capacity to become resilient survivors.
What inspired you to write On the Receiving End: A Memoir of a Nurse Who Met, Tackled, and Overcame Insurmountable Obstacles?
As a survivor of countless circumstances—some of which could have been fatal—I felt a profound calling to share my story through this memoir. I invite readers to walk with me through the highs and lows, to find strength in vulnerability, and to discover that even in the face of life’s greatest trials, hope and resilience can light the way forward.
In addition, my 17 years of experience in healthcare and strong educational foundation became a vital part of my writing. They allowed me to demystify complex medical jargon and create a
narrative that resonated deeply with readers, empowering them to face their own challenges with clarity and hope.
What is one message you would like readers to remember?
Life has tested me in ways I could have never imagined, but through it all, I’ve learned that even in the darkest moments, maintaining a positive mindset is key to overcoming life’s greatest challenges. It takes courage, patience, faith, and strength to face adversity, but those qualities can carry you through when the weight of your circumstances feels unbearable. In the end, persistence and determination to survive are always rewarded.
So, instead of saying “I can’t”, continually tell yourself “I CAN!”
Purchasing the Book
On the Receiving End: A Memoir of a Nurse Who Met, Tackled, and Overcame Insurmountable Obstacles has received positive reviews from well-known literary organizations, authors, and reviewers around the world. ReaderViews writes, “Chapter-by-chapter revelations of a life filled with catastrophic events present the author as a walking miracle, a warrior, and an inspirational person whose demeanor is worth imitating...an incredibly motivational true story.” In addition, Amazon Reviewer, Lori Mayes writes, “A compelling and thought-provoking read that highlights the strength of the human spirit in the face of multiple adversities.”
The book is available for sale on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other online bookstores. Readers are encouraged to purchase their copy today: https://www.amazon.com/Receiving-End-Overcame-Insurmountable-Obstacles/dp/B0CK78P478
To connect with Sheila and learn more about her work, visit: https://www.sherichlyspeaks.com. You can also find her on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
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