A 21-year-old Pella resident, who has overcome many challenges in her life, published her first book “There is Blessing in the Battle: The Best is Yet to Come” in December.

The book, which was written by 2021 Pella Christian graduate Marijka Michmershuizen with the assistance of local writer Carol Van Klompenburg, recounts her journey through the obstacles she’s faced since suffering two strokes at the age of four. In the book, Marijka discusses how she has used faith to find blessings throughout her health battles, including a rare immune disorder, additional strokes, multiple fractures, 18 brain surgeries, and multiple life-threatening respiratory infections. Marijka said that publishing the book was a long-time goal of hers and that she hopes that her story will inspire others to be positive in spite of what they may be going through.

“For as long as I can remember I’ve wanted to write a book, and my memory isn’t great. So, the fact alone that I remember that I wanted to write it for x amount of years tells me that it’s something probably from God that I’ve seen come to fruition. It’s just about my life, and I feel like my life is very unique, and I usually have a positive outlook and I was trying to spread that with the world.”

In addition to Michmershuizen’s story, the book also features a section of tributes written to Marijka from family and friends. “There is Blessing in the Battle: The Best is Yet to Come” is available on Amazon, or can be purchased at Promotions by Design at 604 Franklin Street in Pella. Hear more about Marijka’s journey and book on today’s Let’s Talk Pella.