Shae Pratcher’s journey to becoming an Illumination Award-winning author is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, faith, and storytelling. Her book, Highway to Healing, earned the 2024 Gold Medal in the Digital – eBook category, a recognition that celebrates her vulnerability and commitment to inspiring others.
We had the honor of chatting with Pratcher about her creative process, the inspiration behind Highway to Healing, and her advice for anyone hoping to share their story with the world.
What Winning an Illumination Award Meant to Pratcher
Winning an Illumination Award has been a profound experience for Pratcher. “Winning an Illumination Award is a deeply meaningful honor for me,” she shared. “Personally, it represents the validation of my journey, my resilience, and my faith in the healing process. It signifies that the message I poured into my book resonates with others and holds value.”
On a professional level, the recognition has elevated her credibility and expanded her reach, allowing Pratcher’s message to impact more people. “The award is a reminder that my voice and my work have a purpose beyond myself, touching the lives of those who may need it most,” she added.
Inspired by Her Own Healing
Pratcher’s personal journey through pain and healing served as the foundation for Highway to Healing. She was driven by a desire to provide hope and encouragement to others facing similar struggles. “I wanted to create something that would speak to others who have experienced trauma and loss, helping them realize that they’re not alone,” she explained.
Her faith also played a central role in the book’s creation. “It was my way of turning my own struggles into something positive and purposeful,” Pratcher added.
Writing as Therapy
For Pratcher, writing was both a structured and deeply organic process. She began by journaling and outlining key themes, using her personal experiences as the foundation for her message. “I wrote whenever inspiration struck,” she said, “but I also set dedicated times to work on the book, treating it as both a creative process and a form of therapy.”
Throughout the process, Pratcher remained committed to authenticity. “I approached the work with a genuine desire to be transparent and real, not shying away from difficult topics,” she said. Prayer, reflection, and revisiting memories ensured that every chapter carried the weight and impact of her journey.
Overcoming Challenges
Revisiting painful memories and being vulnerable were among the greatest challenges Pratcher faced while writing. “It was emotionally taxing, but I reminded myself that sharing my story could help others,” she shared. Balancing transparency with privacy was another hurdle she overcame through faith, support, and a focus on her greater purpose.
Self-publishing presented its own learning curve as well. “Investing with the right team to edit and format was very important, and being new to this was scary at times,” Pratcher explained. Yet her persistence and commitment to the message saw her through.
A Message of Healing and Hope
At the heart of Highway to Healing is an empowering message. “I hope readers take away the themes of resilience, faith, and the transformative power of true healing,” Pratcher said.
Her mission is to encourage readers to embrace their journeys and understand the impact of their healing. “By choosing to heal, they’re not only transforming their own lives but also creating a ripple effect that benefits those around them,” she added.
Advice for Aspiring Authors
For those dreaming of writing their own books, Pratcher offers words of wisdom: “Write authentically and with purpose. Don’t be afraid to share your truth and let your voice be heard.”
She encourages aspiring authors to trust their vision and stay resilient in the face of challenges. “Take the time to refine your work and remember that your story matters. Someone out there needs to hear it,” she said.
What’s Next for Pratcher?
Pratcher’s creative journey continues to evolve, with new projects on the horizon. She recently launched her podcast, Shae’s Pep Talk Rally Show, focusing on confidence, resilience, and personal growth. She’s also collaborating with other authors and working on a new book that delves deeper into themes of healing and self-reflection.
In addition, her coaching practice, Showering Seeds of Growth Life Coaching, continues to provide resources and support for those navigating trauma and personal development.
Through her work, Pratcher remains committed to inspiring others to embrace their journeys, heal deeply, and create lasting change.
A Special Message to Those Still Fighting
For Pratcher, winning an Illumination Award is about so much more than personal achievement. It’s a beacon of hope for trauma survivors and those still battling to reclaim their lives. “This win isn’t just for me—it’s for every trauma survivor and for those still in the fight, holding onto truth and choosing to live in truth. I’m doing this for you,” she shared with heartfelt conviction.
Her words offer a powerful reminder to those still struggling: “To those still in the fight, I want you to remember this: we behave the way we believe, and it is what it is… until we do something different. Choose you, just once, and watch your life change for the better. It happened for me, and I wholeheartedly believe it can happen for you, too.”
Pratcher’s vision of healing isn’t solitary—it’s a call to action for a community united by resilience and hope. “Let’s #Heal4Real together,” she concludes, inviting all to join her on the transformative journey of healing.
Submit Your Work Today
If you’re considering submitting your work to the Illumination Awards, Pratcher has one piece of advice: “Go for it! Submitting your work is an act of courage, and it’s a way to honor the time, energy, and heart you’ve put into it. Take that leap of faith—you never know who might be touched by your story.”
