I AM NOT MY ILLNESS: A Guide to Recovery and Overcoming Trauma During a National Pandemic, continues the story of Ariel Washington. On this journey, Ariel recovers from a breakdown, while trying to navigate life during a national pandemic. Due to systemic racism, and discrimination from respective community helping systems, Ariel is forced to take ownership of her recovery from trauma. She must first, revisit the past and re-examine trauma, assault, and self medication. Unlike anything she has encountered in the past, Ariel must fully accept her illness in order to heal and move forward. April Middleton is a multicultural, licensed mental health counselor. She specializes in trauma treatment and intimate partner violence. April is a two time author, whose focus is to spread awareness on issues impacting minority communities. Moreover, health inequities, racism, and social justice. April continues to advocate for equality, and overall improvement in outcomes for underserved communities.