Memorable moment: Family, friends and supporters of Fiona Bruty at the launch of her debut book A Beautiful Awakening.
“Fiona Bruty, you beauty.”
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The words from the well-wishers in attendance as the Echuca resident launched her debut book on Sunday spoke volumes.
Fiona was surrounded by friends, family and supporters as she unveiled A Beautiful Awakening.
The book chronicles her journey from pain and suffering to peace and joy.
“This is a great day of celebration for myself,” Fiona said.
“This project, this amazing book took 10 years to compile, in the early, early days it felt a far stretch and in the middle it was an interesting time of being at the close heart of God.
“There is no more striving for my book, it is wonderful to have the book here today.”
The words tell of Fiona’s struggle, from a mental breakdown as an adolescent and chronic mental illness, the introduction to the Christian church, her subsequent healing, redemption and now life as a published author.
“I want to be a person who gives hope through my story to see them saved,” Fiona said.
Family matters: Fiona Bruty with her Dad Mike and Mum Kate.
A Beautiful Awakening, published by Ocean Reeve Publishing, also features commentary from Terry McKiterick.
Mr McKiterick, who gave a speech at last Sunday’s book launch, is a retired solicitor and long-time friend of the Bruty family.
His observations add a different layer to the book.
Fiona’s parents Mike and Kate Bruty penned the Introduction, and expressed pride and love in their daughter’s journey to becoming a published author.
“It has been a 10- to 12-year process getting the book to this point,” Mike said.
“A lot of people have supported it and it is just fabulous to have so many people here at the launch today.”
Pen-tastic: Fiona Bruty signs a book for her cousin Rebecca Carlton.
Photo by
Gregor Mactaggart
The emotions of the day were clearly visible for Kate.
“It is delightful, it has been a long, long journey,” Kate said.
“To have friends, family, neighbours and members of Fiona’s medical team here today is just fabulous.
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