Memoirs, with their unique and profound significance in the literary world and beyond, offer a glimpse into innermost thoughts and emotions. They connect readers with the essence of life. These autobiographical accounts are a valuable opportunity to explore human diversity, fostering empathy across cultures and historical periods. Memoirs bridge generations, preserving wisdom and stories from the past. They inspire reflection on our lives, values, and aspirations. Authors find catharsis and contribute to a collective reservoir of knowledge by sharing their narratives. This enriches our understanding of the human condition, reminding us that every life story is worth telling. In essence, memoirs testify to individual resilience and our shared humanity.

From Nurse to Writer

Kathryn Imler’s journey from a dedicated nurse to a passionate writer is nothing short of extraordinary. With a background encompassing various facets of the medical field, including medicine, surgery, obstetrics, and home care supervision, her life has been full of diverse experiences.

One pivotal moment that ignited the spark of her writing career was a journey to Myanmar as a travel nurse. Accompanying a dying man to his homeland, she embarked on an adventure that would forever change her perspective on life and inspire her to put pen to paper. This remarkable experience laid the foundation for “Burning Rubber” and the subsequent chapters of her life.

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS) and Fibromyalgia (FM)

Chronic diseases like Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS) and Fibromyalgia (FM) are profoundly debilitating, impacting millions globally. ME/CFS entails unrelenting fatigue, while FM involves widespread muscle and soft tissue discomfort. These conditions often bring sleep disruptions, cognitive challenges, and various symptoms. Diagnosis and management of ME/CFS and FM pose challenges. Researchers are investigating their intricate mechanisms. However, there’s still no treatment available to alleviate these symptoms and enhance patients’ lives. Due to the invisibility of their illnesses, patients often face scepticism and misunderstanding, emphasizing the importance of support and awareness.

Returning to Vancouver, Kathryn’s life took an unexpected turn. Her health began to deteriorate, eventually leading to her retirement from nursing. This marked the onset of her battle with two unseen medical conditions: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME/CFS) and Fibromyalgia (FM). These debilitating conditions, often misunderstood and misdiagnosed, cast a shadow over her life, reshaping it in ways she never could have anticipated.

In the pages of “Burning Rubber,” Kathryn candidly shares her struggles with ME/CFS and FM. Through her personal story, she sheds light on the challenges faced by millions of individuals who battle these conditions, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and research. Long COVID, with its overlapping symptoms, further underscores the relevance of her narrative in today’s world.

From Loss to Resilience

“Burning Rubber” exceeds the boundaries of a traditional memoir. It discusses various emotions and experiences, touching upon themes such as:

• Loss of Purpose: Kathryn’s abrupt departure from her nursing career and her new reality as a person living with ME/CFS and FM resonates with anyone who has faced an unforeseen change in life.
• Grief and Healing: Her journey mirrors the emotional rollercoaster of grief, loss, and eventual healing, making her story universally relatable.
• Addiction and Recovery: Kathryn’s personal struggle with opioids, their unintended consequences, and her path to recovery provides a poignant insight into the opioid crisis that plagues societies globally.
• Resilience and Courage: Through it all, Kathryn’s unwavering spirit and determination highlight that even in the face of adversity, one can emerge stronger and more resilient.

Chronicling Extraordinary Adventures

Travelling in a wheelchair presents numerous challenges. Accessibility can be a major issue, with many places lacking ramps or elevators. Uneven terrain and narrow pathways make navigation difficult. Transportation can be a hurdle as not all vehicles are wheelchair-friendly. Booking suitable accommodations can be a struggle. Air travel can be particularly challenging due to the need for assistance and transferring into narrow aeroplane seats. Additionally, finding accessible restrooms and facilities can be a constant concern during a trip. Despite these obstacles, many wheelchair users persevere and advocate for improved accessibility to make travel more inclusive and enjoyable.

“Burning Rubber” takes readers on an unforgettable journey alongside Kathryn and her husband as they navigate the challenges of travelling to Thailand twice, with Kathryn in a wheelchair. These adventures showcase the strong human spirit and the power of love and support in overcoming life’s obstacles.

The Heart of the Matter: Raising Awareness

At the heart of “Burning Rubber” lies a passionate plea for increased awareness and understanding of ME/CFS and FM. With over one million Canadians affected by these conditions, Kathryn’s story highlights the urgency of research, diagnosis, and treatment options. Her firsthand account serves as a catalyst for change, inspiring readers to take action and support initiatives to combat these often-overlooked conditions.

Kathryn’s Ongoing Writing Journey

Kathryn’s storytelling prowess extends beyond “Burning Rubber.” She is currently immersed in a historical fiction project inspired by letters from her great-uncle during World War I. This upcoming work promises to captivate readers with its rich narrative and meticulous research, further solidifying Kathryn’s place as a versatile and talented author.