My Year in Transition – Becoming a Phoenix
Explore the Journey Through AF Rose's Personal Journey Book Blog
Whether you are navigating your own path toward authenticity or standing as a pillar of support for a loved one, your courage creates the space for a life defined by joy and radical honesty.
Lessons In Growth
What You’ll Take From My Journey
• The realization that living visibly is the ultimate catalyst for healing from a lifetime of silence.
• Strategies for replacing a foundation of fear with a future of fearless, open-hearted exploration.
• Insights into how we can build safer, more compassionate spaces for future generations to thrive.
• A deeper understanding of the unwavering resilience of the human spirit when it is finally set free.
A Year of Transformation
Transitioning is about more than a singular change; it is a profound process of unlearning the trauma that kept us invisible. My story moves from the shadows of PTSD and fear toward a mission of advocacy sparked by the strength of our community. I invite you to see how choosing visibility over safety can transform a person into someone far more capable and whole. Today, I stand committed to a world where our youth live with complete integrity.
Learning to Love Myself
I invite you into the heart of my healing. After enduring the weight of grief and mental health struggles, I finally discovered that life is a gift worth cherishing. Through my transition, I learned to love the person I see in the mirror for the very first time.
I warmly invite you to spend a pivotal year of my transition with me by reading my memoir, My Life in Transition – Becoming a Phoenix. Let us find the strength together to rise above the darkness and celebrate the beautiful value of living our own authentic truths.
Dive deep into the transformative journey as captured in af rose personal journey book. Learn how courage and authenticity foster growth and healing. af rose personal journey book not only inspires but also empowers individuals to embrace their truths and shape a brighter future. Explore now to connect with meaningful experiences and invaluable insights.
The People Behind A Phoenix
No phoenix rises alone, and I owe my emergence to the community of steady hands that guarded my light. My path to visibility was paved by those listed here, including a dear friend whose absence is felt deeply even as I celebrate the beautiful ways he shaped my heart. I carry his memory forward with gratitude, committed to building a future where everyone finds the strength and support, they need to become a phoenix themselves.
Dylan, along with Ross and Valerie, was one of the first friends I made after transitioning, and that made his presence in my life especially meaningful. Everything about Dylan was endearing—his warmth, his spirit, and the way he made connection feel effortless. We bonded quickly, sharing many deep conversations over our mutual love for the game of pool, finding friendship in both the quiet moments and the laughter between shots. Although we only spent a season together, the impact he made on my heart will last forever. I will always carry him with me.
Jill Pate, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, CFRC, was exactly who I needed at a moment when I truly felt I had reached the end of myself and could not imagine facing another day. I am deeply grateful that she was there when I needed help most. She did more than simply make herself available—she spoke life, hope, and truth into a place that felt completely broken. What may have seemed like simple words carried a weight and clarity that reached me when nothing else could. Her compassion, wisdom, and keen insight helped me begin to see a way forward, and because of her, I am now able to embrace and enjoy a life I once thought was beyond my reach.
Natasha Ozybko once said something as a conference presenter that laid the foundation for my eventual passion for advocacy. Her challenge to “be who you needed when you were younger” resonated deeply with me. At the time, I was just beginning to climb out of the abyss, still far from becoming the phoenix I would one day be. Hearing her speak lit a fire within me—one that continues to grow brighter every day. Natasha also gave me the opportunity to write my first published article.
Tracey Chambers was one of my earliest allies at work. Our friendship blossomed from a work relationship into a deep bond. I affectionately refer to her as the president of my fan club for her steadfast support, affirmation and encouragement. Tracey has been there for me without fail.
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Vanessa Eastwood bridges the gap between complex systems and human connection with her brilliant technical mind. She uses her expertise to make digital spaces more accessible and warm, radiating a gentle spirit of service. By simplifying the difficult, she creates a path for others to find the information and the hope they need to keep moving forward.
Quana Davis serves as a beacon of safety and inspiration, ensuring every soul she encounters feels seen and valued. Through education and deep empathy, she helps build the inclusive world we all deserve to inhabit. Her work is a testament to how kindness and advocacy can transform the community landscape for the better.
Jules is an incredible nail artist and a beautiful person, inside and out. Before I even understood what allyship meant, she was the first true ally I had. I’m so grateful for all the ways Jules has supported me, including nudging me to Bodystain Tattoo and Shawn, who became my tattoo artist.
Madi Blakely is more than just a bartender; she is the anchor at Slammers in Columbus. Early on, I expressed my desire to be like her when I grew up, and that sentiment remains. Madi has been an incredible ally in my journey to becoming a phoenix, embodying love and compassion.
Cristy Hannah was the first person to reach out and offer allyship before we had even met. She became an essential part of my first girls’ nights out, where we shared laughter, hugs, and a few tears. We’re bonded by a love of body art, good music, and having fun. My story is richer, and far more joyful, because she is in it.
Shawn Phay, the tattoo artist behind my entire rose tattoo, earned my trust quickly. His artistry and the countless hours of what I call tattoo therapy have been invaluable. I look forward to seeing my roses continue to grow under his skilled hands.
Jack and Laura are truly an amazing couple. As individuals, Jack shines and Laura glitters, each bringing their own warmth, joy, and light into the world. But together, they radiate something even more special—a fabulous, welcoming energy that makes everyone around them feel seen, included, and loved. I am especially grateful to them for introducing me to my growing Knoxville chosen family, a gift that has meant more to me than words can fully express.
Valerie Warthen was the first friend I made shortly after transitioning, and that will always make her incredibly special to me. She has a welcoming beauty that begins deep within her and radiates outward, making the people around her feel safe, seen, and embraced. I could cry tears of joy just thinking about the tender moments we have shared during our just-us-girls time—moments that reminded me I was not only accepted, but cherished. Shortly after we met, Valerie introduced me to Dylan, and through that simple act, she helped open the door to even more connection, friendship, and belonging in my life.
Ross O’Sullivan was one of the first friends I made after transitioning. We bonded over board games after meeting through a local Meetup, and his warm heart and infectious spirit quickly became a welcome presence in my life. While my purpose was still taking shape, Ross confirmed it as real and worthy. My story is fuller, and kinder, because he is part of it.
If my story speaks to you, you’re invited to:
• Read my memoir, My Year in Transition – Becoming a Phoenix
• Explore Posts & Notes for more reflections
• Reach out about speaking, media, or collaboration