Always Reading: Book Tour: Alive...For A Reason by Jaiden Jackson Smith

What You Don’t Know Will Kill You and It’s Not the Pandemic: Julia’s Story

Nonfiction / Biographies / Health

Date Published: December 23, 2024

You don’t have to die… like Julia almost did.

This gripping memoir tells the true story of a sudden, devastating illness—thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP)—a rare blood disorder with a 90% mortality rate if left untreated.

Through a deeply personal and conversational narrative, Jaiden Jackson Smith brings readers into Julia’s world:

● A body turning against itself

● A mind navigating fear, confusion, and altered reality

● A spirit clinging to faith and purpose

What You’ll Discover

● The hidden dangers of undiagnosed illness

● The link between stress, trauma, and autoimmune disorders

● The reality of hematological conditions and platelet disorders

● The emotional and spiritual battle of survival

Excerpt

Excerpt from Chapter 12: “What’s Happening to Me?” from ALIVE … FOR A Reason| What You Don’t Know Could Kill Yu, and it’s Not the Pandemic: Julia’s Story

Ted hands me several folded sheets of information he printed out from the internet. I didn't notice them in his hand when he came into the room. I

take the papers he gives me. The information has strange paragraphs about blood, plasma, platelets, and throm— something... purpura, and TTP.

"T-T-what?"

"Ted, do you know where my cell phone is?"

"I've been meaning to tell you. Donna has your purse. Your belongings are safe with her. Since you're awake, she'll bring it

and your bag with her the next time she comes."

"I don't understand the meaning of the print-out you gave me of the description of what has happened to me, Ted. Do you understand it?"

"It's not you. It's been difficult for me to understand it, too. I've read that you have a rare and unfamiliar illness. Your doctor—Doctor Tan,

should come around soon. I won't leave until he stops in to check on you. He'll explain it to you better than I can."

As if on cue, Ted casts his eyes toward the hallway. He sees a doctor passing by.

"There he is now. I'll try to catch up with Doctor Tan. He's the doctor that's treating you."

Before I could ask Ted a question about the doctor, he jumped to his feet and hurried into the hallway. Curious, I get up to follow Ted and

stand next to him. He and a doctor are talking. I'm confused. Why doesn't the doctor notice me? I'm right here with them.

The specialist, wearing a crisp, white medical coat, says,

"I'll be in to speak with her soon."

Why doesn't Ted acknowledge that I'm standing right here? Neither one notices me. This isn't a good sign.

"Okay, thanks, Doctor."

In a split second, I find myself in bed. I'm confused. Ted didn't escort me back into the room—and now he's sitting in the chair.

"I caught up with the specialist who's been treating you. He told me he's coming in to talk with you this evening during his rounds."

He must not realize I stood beside them and heard their brief conversation.

Later that evening, the physician walks in, holds out his hand to shake mine, and with a warm smile says,

"Glad to know you are awake. My name is Doctor Tan."

He seems cordial, given that he acted as if I wasn't in the hall with him and Ted moments ago.

Ted was courteous to stand and motion for the doctor to have a seat. The doctor did not sit. Instead, Doctor Tan thanked

him and then looked at me.

"Julia– is that correct?"

Ted answers for me, "Yes, sir; you are correct."

The doctor is not brusque or condescending. I can't believe this specialist is so pleasant.

About the Author

Jaiden Jackson Smith is an award-winning author, advocate, and storyteller whose work centers on truth, healing, and human resilience.

Her debut memoir earned the 2025 International Impact Book Award, marking her as a powerful new voice in inspirational nonfiction.

Jaiden holds a Master’s degree in Law and Public Policy in Nevada and is committed to continuing her education to advocate for:

● Individuals with intellectual disabilities

● People with disabilities

● Senior adults

Her life is guided by three core values:

Integrity. Loyalty. Determination.

Beyond her professional achievements, Jaiden finds joy in:

● Spending time with her husband

● Enjoying music—especially Earth, Wind & Fire