In a heartfelt mission to support children who have faced abuse, local author Kimberly Souba is using her own experiences to inspire others. Having experienced trauma in her childhood, she has transformed her pain into purpose through writing children’s books aimed at educating youth about love, faith, and resilience.
Growing up in LaMoille, Illinois, during the 1980s, Kimberly became part of the alarming statistic that reveals approximately 40 percent of children in the United States experience some form of sexual abuse. Unlike many, Kimberly found a path to healing and has become a beacon of hope for others. Her journey of recovery has drawn admiration from friends and mentors, including Dan Wujek, who described her efforts as “courageous.” He emphasized her desire to ensure that other children understand they are loved and that there is goodness in the world.
Another supporter, Janean Doherty, who first met Kimberly when she was babysitting her, recognized her remarkable resilience after becoming a psychiatric nurse. “Kimberly’s life story is filled with suffering that could break anyone else,” Janean stated. Yet, she added that with support, Kimberly “bounced back” and has since dedicated herself to saving others from similar situations.
The details of Kimberly’s trauma are not easily shared, but she has gradually learned to open up about her past. Recently relocated to Fargo, North Dakota, she reflects on her journey of healing that began with therapy. Initially resistant, she found a kindred spirit in therapist Mary Ann Akers, who practiced patience during their sessions. “For six months, I sat there and never said a word,” Kimberly recalled. When she finally began to share her story, it changed her life.
Over the course of a decade, Kimberly and Mary Ann built a strong bond, which continued even after Mary Ann’s retirement and up until her unexpected death in May 2023. “Mary Ann was one of many people God seemed to send to help rescue me from destruction,” Kimberly said.
Another key figure in Kimberly’s journey has been Fr. Charles Klamut, a priest in the Diocese of Peoria. Their collaboration began when Kimberly served as a religious education director at his parish. “She has had quite the journey, and I’m super proud of her,” Fr. Charles noted. Despite her past, he emphasized her spiritual resilience and determination to heal.
Kimberly’s latest initiative involves writing children’s books that address childhood abuse and convey messages of God’s love. Her first book, “A Caterpillar’s Journey,” reflects her own transformation and struggles. She has additional projects in the pipeline, including “Mary, Dinosaurs and the Wonders of God: A Backyard Adventure with Momma Mary,” set to be released in time for Christmas 2023.
As she seeks to raise awareness about the effects of abuse, Kimberly also aims to create positive narratives for children. Her new coloring and activity book, “Miriam’s Heavenly Tea Party,” featuring her favorite saints, will be available on November 1, 2023, coinciding with the celebration of All Saints Day.
In pursuit of her goals, Kimberly returned to academia, obtaining a communications degree from Valley City State University. Earlier this year, she accepted a position as a communications specialist with the North Dakota University System. After initially working remotely from Illinois, she moved back to North Dakota in the spring, expressing her enthusiasm for her new role and parish community at Sts. Anne and Joachim Church.
Despite the distance, Kimberly maintains strong ties with her friends in Illinois, including Dan Wujek, who has witnessed the profound impact of the Christian community on Kimberly’s life. “She was so in need, and also so lovable,” he said, acknowledging the transformative effect of her journey on those around her.
Through her writing and community involvement, Kimberly Souba exemplifies resilience and hope, proving that healing is possible and that love, faith, and understanding can lead to a brighter future for children who have faced unimaginable challenges.
