Asheville – In the wake of Hurricane Helene, Rebecca Wells Phillips found herself on a harrowing journey, one that would ultimately lead her to pen a poignant narrative about resilience and community. “Life is hard, and I hope that the reader will realize that no matter how difficult it gets, they must continue to move forward. You can never give up or surrender,” she reflects, capturing the essence of her new book, Hurricane Helene Resiliency After the Storm Part One.
Background & Origins
Rebecca’s story begins not in her book but on a fateful day in September 2024. As she drove through the wreckage left by the storm, her main concern was reaching her girlfriend in a camper. The roads were blocked by downed trees and flooding. “I remember how hopeless I felt because we had no way to communicate,” she recalls. This moment ignited her determination to document the resilience in her community.
The chapters of her book—An Ocean in the Mountains, Local Heroes, and One Disaster from Homelessness—reflect the stories that emerged from the chaos. “I chose ‘resiliency’ for my title because I saw neighbors helping neighbors,” she explains, emphasizing the unity that blossomed amidst adversity.
Current Work & Achievements
After eight months of dedicated writing, Phillips has crafted a narrative that honors Hurricane Helene victims while raising awareness about America’s housing crisis. Her book is available on platforms like Amazon and Barnes & Noble, as well as local shops such as Noir Collective and Carolina Mountain Pharmacy. A portion of the proceeds will benefit victims and the charity BeLoved Asheville.
In her previous works, including Hating Self and Loving Self by Boo Black, Phillips has established herself as a voice for change. Her published short stories on Reedsy.com showcase her commitment to storytelling that resonates with real-life struggles. “I write to change the world,” she asserts, a mantra driving her creativity.
Personality & Philosophy
Phillips’ philosophy is rooted in empathy and understanding. She recognizes the biases society holds against the unhoused, stating, “Society has told us that homeless people are lazy, crazy, or addicts of some kind. This couldn’t be further from the truth.” Through her writing, she aims to dismantle these misconceptions and shed light on the fragility of stability in today’s economy.
Her chapter titled One Disaster from Homelessness poignantly illustrates how easily one can slip into homelessness due to unforeseen circumstances. “If you have one breadwinner in a household and they are hurt in an accident, you are closer to homelessness,” she warns, urging readers to reconsider their perceptions of those facing such hardships.
Cultural Impact & Legacy
Phillips’ work extends beyond mere storytelling; it serves as a catalyst for change within her community. By sharing the experiences of local heroes like the Chainsaw Brothers—who selflessly helped clear roads during the storm—she highlights the power of collective action in times of crisis. “Even now, they have a business and are helping people as we speak,” she notes, showcasing how resilience can manifest in various forms.
Her commitment to supporting victims through her book is not just an act of charity; it’s a recognition of their pain and a validation of their stories. “The victims who recounted their experiences will receive a share of the proceeds because they opened their hearts and told me their most painful memories from the storm,” she explains, emphasizing her desire to honor their narratives.
Challenges & Conflict
The journey to publish Hurricane Helene Resiliency After the Storm was challenging. Phillips faced the task of gathering accurate information while respecting the privacy of those affected. “I decided not to use actual victim names out of respect for the families,” she shares, highlighting her sensitivity to those who suffered loss.
Navigating the complexities of the housing crisis added another layer to her writing. The rising cost of living in Asheville has made it difficult for many residents to find stable housing. “Most people live in groups just to afford rent,” she laments, calling for a societal shift in our view of homelessness.
The Future
As Phillips looks ahead, she remains committed to amplifying voices that often go unheard. Her work with BeLoved Asheville exemplifies her dedication to community support and advocacy. “They have taken supplies to the Raleigh-Durham area and Kerrville, Texas,” she notes, highlighting their ongoing efforts to assist those impacted by natural disasters.
With plans for future projects already brewing, Phillips is determined to continue her mission of storytelling that inspires change. “I would hope that a donation will support them as they continue to play an integral role in helping people in need following these horrific storms,” she expresses, envisioning a future where compassion prevails over judgment.