Deaf, Me, My Life: Stories of Strength, Struggles and Survival

Deaf, Me, My Life: Stories of Strength, Struggles and Survival is a deeply personal memoir by Samantha Smith-Blackmore, a writer and creative artist who grew up navigating two worlds - Deaf and hearing. Born deaf and diagnosed later in life with Borderline Personality Disorder and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Samantha spent decades bottling up pain, confusion, and questions she didn't know how to ask. Her story includes surviving bullying, sexual violence, physical assault and emotional trauma - experiences that shaped her but never defined her. This book is her courageous act of release. English remains her second language, and being Deaf from birth has heightened her sensory awareness - especially through smell, vibration, and visual details. These gifts shape the way she creates and connects with the world. Through raw, honest storytelling, Samantha shares the moments that broke and shattered her, but she took strength to rise again. Her journey is not about perfection or resolution - it's about truth. As a writer and creative artist, she brings a unique lens to communication, identity, and belonging. Her stories reflect the tension, resilience, and beauty of living in both worlds and the power of finally speaking out.