Say Her Name: My Story of Foremothers and Daughters

From the depths of despair, betrayal, violence, drug use, and death, there was always hope and optimism for the future and the author believes her journey can serve as a guide to those who feel lost. The author's family faced challenges that many in the underserved community currently face. Love and devotion to one another is what kept them together, even when they made mistakes, they found forgiveness. When family members were drowning in their own mistakes, a helping hand was always stretched out, ready to save a life. The love and devotion of the strong women in the author's family is what kept the family together and united. The warmth, care, and nurture they provided the author shaped her and gave her strength to carry on even when she was 10 feet deep in water, fighting the current, she carried on. Her Foremothers made her who she is today.

JoAnn Brannon-Chanthanivong is a conscientious writer, mental health professional, veteran, and a community advocate. She earned a bachelor's degree with honors in Health Administration from Purdue University and a Master of Social Work with a concentration on Mental Health from University of Southern California. Growing up as an under privileged youth, JoAnn has always felt a desire to serve marginalized populations. After completing an internship at Youth Build Charter School- Antelope Valley, serving the under privileged youth population, she embarked on a career as a Mental Health Therapist in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation system and the Mental Health department at Antelope Valley Hospital. During her undergraduate years, JoAnn had the opportunity to write Op Eds for the local town newspaper focusing on the impact of local citizens with mental health concerns had on the community. Prior to completing her education and embarking on a career serving the marginalized and underserved community, JoAnn committed to serving her Country by enlisting in the United States Army National Guard. JoAnn raised her right hand and took an oath to defend America. The Army allowed her to serve a greater purpose and instilled the importance of having honor, integrity, resilience and discipline in all of life's endeavors in order to overcome obstacles and be successful. JoAnn currently resides in Los Angeles, California with her husband and two children. Say Her Name: My Story of Mothers and Daughters is her first Novel.