Carina Francis
Powered by Books.by
Carina Francis
When I couldn't die, I learned to live
by Carina Francis
In this debut memoir, Carina Francis takes readers across continents—from her childhood in South Africa to her life in Canada—sharing a story marked by healing, resilience, and mental health struggles.
This is not just a survival story; it’s a testimony of how trauma can shatter lives and how hope, faith, and self-discovery can rebuild them. With themes of suicide survival, emotional healing, and personal transformation, Carina’s book opens the door to conversations many are too afraid to have.
At its core, Just Wait; There’s More is a powerful reminder that mental health awareness saves lives, and that storytelling can be a bridge to recovery.
I didn’t give up. I gave in.
Carina Francis wanted to die. She couldn’t leave the memories of sexual abuse and the unseen scars of serving in the South African Police Service behind when she moved to Canada. Her family history of depression handicapped her, but it was the loneliness of immigration that made suicide alluring.
This hauntingly honest memoir is an all-access pass into the intimate corners of depression and the relentless ideations of a suicidal mind. The deeply personal battle becomes a public spectacle when Carina is faced with the threat of losing her last reason to live - her kids. This forces her to reflect on faith, identity, connection and choices – both life choices and what she chose to believe about herself.
This book is not only a personal reflection but also an invitation: an invitation to break free from the past, to face our truth, and to embrace healing because recovery is possible. Honest, raw, and deeply inspiring, this book lingers with the reader stirring up hope and challenging perspectives.
“This was an emotional journey and an urgent reminder of the importance of connection—genuine, human connection that goes beyond diagnoses or visible challenges. It reinforced how essential it is to see each person in their entirety: their story, their struggles, and their strengths—not just a label or a moment in time.” – Susan Goll, Executive Director: Canadian Mental Health Association Wood Buffalo
““Wow, Carina’s honesty and candor shines through so plainly – I really appreciated her humanity through it all.” ”
Mara Grunau, CEO at Canadian Mental Health Association - Alberta Division, and Centre for Suicide Prevention.
“"The book is a must read for anyone who works in the mental health field, or people living with trauma and mental illness and their support systems. Carina brings to light the system cracks, the importance of being listened to by care providers and the power that care providers have. Her experiences, however her own, are relatable to so many and her story of recovery gives hope.””
Lauren Beuhler, Licensed Master Social Worker
“I read this memoir in 3 days. An inspirational story of a rise from the ashes that will change many lives ”
Collette
“The story is living proof that suffering is temporary and has purpose. When harnessed, it can lead to growth, redemption and new life. The current Canadian medical system’s prescription of death via MAiD is not health care. It’s false compassion and exploitation of vulnerable people when they are at their weakest. I pray that this book is a wake up call for our society and that it will inspire hope and a path forward for those in darkness. This story of recovery needs to be known far and wide ”
Sherry
“Wow, I couldn't put this book down. I love the honesty, vulnerability and rawness the author expresses. This has made me realise how little I understand about the black dog. I thank you for helping me understand, to be more observant, to listen more and be a better friend.”
Karin
“Full of Hope. What a brave story to write and really does need to be told. An inspiring read and one full of hope and light even in the darkest time”
Catherine
Joined books.by 3 months ago.