Writing With and About Chronic Illness and Disability with Sandra Postma

Are you a writer who struggles to write because of a chronic illness or a writer who desires to write a disabled character with integrity and authenticity? 

If so, this episode is for you. 

Certified Book Coach Sandra Postma and I discuss how chronic conditions can shape the creative process, tackling issues like fatigue and brain fog. Sandra, a chronically ill person, emphasizes the importance of empathy, self-compassion, and community, reminding us that acknowledging our limitations doesn’t mean we should blame ourselves. 

Sandra shares practical tips on avoiding stereotypes in writing and highlights resources designed to support chronically ill writers. 

You’ll be inspired as we talk about renowned authors who have faced similar challenges, and Sandra gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming workshop on creating authentic disabled characters—an effort to uplift disabled voices in the publishing landscape.

Episode Highlights:

01:23 – Meet Sandra Postma  

03:06 – Sandra’s Journey to Writing and Coaching  

05:25 – Challenges of Writing with Chronic Illness  

09:37 – Empathy, Connection, and Vulnerability  

13:33 – Overcoming Internal Narratives  

17:09 – Acceptance and Acknowledgement  

18:37 – The Value of Your Voice  

19:35 – Embracing Your Unique Voice Through Illness  

21:28 – The Power of Community for Writers with Chronic Illness  

24:08 – Resources and Workshops for Writing Authentic Disabled Characters  

26:48 – The Emotional Load of Writing and Overcoming Bias  

34:01 – Inspiration from Writers with Disabilities  

35:47 – Final Thoughts and Wishes for Fellow Writers  

Guest Bio and Links

Links and books  mentioned in the show:

How To Write An Authentic Disabled Character Workshop by Sandra Postma

The Mighty Online Network

Writing The Other: A Practical Approach by Nisi Shawl & Cynthia Ward

Sandra Postma is a former journalist who switched from fact to fiction after discovering her own writing held the power for change. Founding Your Story Mentor in 2021, Sandra is now a writer of fiction and non-fiction, and a certified book coach.

In her work as a book coach, Sandra helps writers with a chronic illness, disability or mental struggles. She helps writers embrace their unique voice and develop their story ideas into novels.

Connect with Sandra on her website or follow her on Instagram and threads  @yourstorymentor. 

Learn more about Small-Group Book Coaching for Fiction Writers with Write It Scared!