Marie McKenzie

Tell us a little about yourself:

I was born on the island of Jamaica, West Indies, and relocated to the USA in 1989. I currently reside in Orlando, FL with my George, my husband of over 22 years.

My dream, since early childhood, was to become a registered nurse like my aunt, affectionately called Sister Herma. I’m fortunate that for over twenty-six years I’ve been living that dream.

My literary journey opened the door for me to combine my medical training and experience to expand my advocacy for and service to survivors of sexual violence. Through my work as an Emergency Department nurse, I cared for victims, and also later in the community setting. However, it wasn’t until after my memoir was published that other women began reaching out to me directly for support and guidance. As a result, I founded the International Sexual Assault Recovery Institute, where I help women overcome their sexual assault triggers and find intimacy in their relationships.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

My interest in writing was ignited after I entered a 30-Day Writing challenge hosted by USA Today Bestselling Author, Naleighna Kai, during which I wrote my memoir, Things That Keep Me Up At Night. The opportunity connected me with the NK Tribe Called Success, a group of phenomenal authors—USA Today, international and national bestselling—who freely guided and supported me at every step of my journey.

When did you realize you had a story that the world needed to hear?

A few months prior to writing my memoir, I was a guest on a Podcast, where I was invited to speak about my role as a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner. During the show, I shared my experience as a childhood sexual assault survivor. I later sent the podcast episode to family and friends, and although shocked, they were very supportive and some opened up about their own stories of victimization and survival.

Some were struggling to speak up, find healing, and survive. I call that SHUT IN – Silently Hurting due to Unresolved Trauma (caused by rape/sexual assault) Internalizing (shame, anger, fear, anxiety, reliving the trauma) Needlessly. 

Some verbalized that my story helped them regain their voices and empowered them to speak up and reach out for support. As one person said, “If you have been through all that and survived and are sharing your story, I can do the same.”

What are your favorite genres to read?

My favorite genres to read are inspirational and self-help. I love literary works that help me to improve my life and provide resources and tools that I can share with others, especially the community I serve, those affected by sexual violence.

Have you experienced writer’s block, and how do you handle it?

Yes, I have experienced writer’s block and there is so much one can do.

Tips –

Write about something else, another chapter, or a topic. It doesn’t need to be in order and can be fixed later.

Stop writing and do something you enjoy—take a walk, exercise, (I lifted weights)

Brainstorm with a friend.

Read a book.

Meditation/Affirmations

When did you write your first book and how old were you?

I wrote my first book, my memoir, Things That Keep Me Up At Night, in 2021 at the age of fifty-nine (59).

What is the message behind your title? 

The message is that I am no longer bound by the Things That Keep Me Up At Night. I had tossed around the idea of changing the title to Things That Kept Me Up At Night, but opted to keep it as is. Because like an addict there may always be triggers. Healing from trauma is lifelong, but, when the memories attack, I have the tools and strategies to keep them at bay. I’m no longer SHUT IN.

What would you want survivors to take away from your book?

I would like them to take away:

Healing is possible – they can heal, survive, and thrive.

They can overcome their sexual assault triggers and find intimacy in their relationships.

They are not their trauma – someone did something to them. The shame, blame, and guilt belong to the perpetrators.

They are worthy of living a rich and meaningful life.

If you’re SHUT IN, it’s time to reach out for help to heal.

What might your next book be about?

My next book will be a resource/inspiration for sexual assault survivors.

Where do you do your writing?

I do not have a specific writing area. I’m able to create wherever the mood hits – in the airport, bedroom, kitchen island, in the bathroom, at work, while driving (record).

What would you say is the most difficult part of writing a book?

Marketing is the most challenging part for me. I know most authors don’t view marketing as part of the writing process, but I do. The book will not get to those who need it unless they know about it and are able to access it easily. That requires marketing, marketing, marketing - through various channels – social media, newsletters, paid advertisements, etc.

What are your non-writing hobbies?

My non-writing hobbies include reading, exercising, and cooking, especially my new-found love for whole food, plant-based (WFPB) eating lifestyle.