Author Spotlight: Sonya Johnson

Sonya Johnson is the author of the new powerhouse book, “Forgiven but Never Forgotten: A story of abuse, loss and New Life” and contributing author of “Women Who Lead”. She was born and raised in Gettysburg, PA. Sonya, is the owner of AIJ Healthcare Solutions, LLC in Northern California. She holds certifications as Licensed Practical Nurse, Congregational Health Nurse, CPR Trainer, and DSD. She volunteers at Wardrobe for Opportunity in Oakland, CA. There, she serves on the Women’s Empowerment Board, as a guest speaker and advisor.

Sonya is the Executive Director at one of the top assisted living communities in the U.S. She also does health talks to local senior centers and assistant living for the elderly, not to mention motivational speaking for women. All this while being a wife and mother to five kids.

Sonya has been faced with everything from molestation, domestic violence, and loss of a child, just to name a few, all before the age of 24. Her story will leave you speechless and inspire you all at the same time. How she was able to pull herself through all the turmoil, hurt, pain and loss in her life is a true testimony. Her motto is “You have to go thru it to get to it.” Based on her own personal story of strength. Sonya has stated, “If I had not gone through all the things I had I would not be the person I am today.” Just listening to her story and how God brought her from her lowest to know is said to be remarkable and empowering. Learn more about this author spotlight below.

Fancy: How would you describe your swagher? What makes Sonya, Sonya?

 

Sonya: My swagher would be “being real”, and being true to myself and others and my faith is what makes me Sonya.

 

Fancy: So what inspired your book “Forgiven but Never Forgotten: A story of abuse, loss and New Life”? Please share a little about it. 

 

Sonya: My book was inspired by me. My book’s main character is Renee, and it’s the story of her life from a small child to adulthood, going through everything almost everyone has experienced from molestation, teen pregnancy, to losing a child. The book is really my life, my own story!
Fancy: Did you find any relief in sharing your story?

 

Sonya: Writing my story was very therapeutic. It reminded of where I came from and how far I have come. Some parts did bring up bad memories, but I knew I had to write this and complete it for women who have had some of these issues to help them through it.
Fancy: Your background is in the medical field, correct? How did you begin writing?

Sonya: I have been in the medical field since I was 16. Writing was truly God speaking to me. That’s the key when GOD speaks to you. LISTEN!
Fancy: So you also contributed to the “Women Who Lead” anthology. How did you come about that opportunity and what was it like?

 

Sonya: I was approached by Dr. Sharon- what a terrific opportunity! She is amazing, I was very blessed to be a part of the book with the other women. To read the completed book and share it with other women who are “on fire” there are no words but BLESSING.
Fancy: You dealt with molestation, domestic violence and loss of a child just to name a few all before the age of 24. Can you share a little about?

Sonya: Without giving too much away, molestation and abuse is very real, and people really just started opening up about it. To be honest, my parents didn’t know about that or half of the things I went through in the book. Back then you just didn’t talk about it. I wish 1,000 times I would of just told someone. That is what we need to teach to our kids daily, and what I teach to mine. Don’t ever have secrets or be afraid to tell me anything I will always listen.

Fancy: How did you yourself go about forgiving whomever or whatever hurt you?

Sonya: Forgiveness is not easy and doesn’t happen overnight. In order to forgive the people for what they did to me and for taking my baby’s life, I had to first find GOD. Get to know him, ask him for forgiveness for my wrongs, and then I learned how to forgive others. I will never forget my past, but I forgive the people of the past.
 

Fancy: What tips or advice would you give to those struggling with forgiveness?

Sonya: Don’t rush it, it’s a process. You must know GOD first before you can forgive and understand what forgiveness means. The key is you HAVE to mean it. Not just say it.

 

Fancy: Do you have any upcoming events or projects that you care to share?

Sonya: At this time I am currently working on my last book! (For now) I learned to never say never lol! Also working on movie scripts!
Follow and connect with Sonya below.

Twitter: @sonyajohnson977
IG: sonyajohnsonauthor
Website: sonyajohnsonauthor
Facebook: sonyajohnsonauthor
All books available on Webuyblack, Amazon and Barnes and Nobles
Books also available on website. All books on website are signed and includes s&h.