Publishing is rife with rejection. As a physician, I wasn’t prepared for this reality when, several years ago, I began venturing into the writing world, taking classes and submitting pieces with little understanding of the industry or norms, without any concept of what I might expect.

As I’ve delved more seriously into writing, I’ve learned to accept frequent rejections, listen and learn from the talented and established artists and editors around me, and I hope become a better writer myself in the process.

Given how gray my Submittable account usually is (you writers all know what I’m talking about!), I was absolutely thrilled to get the very unexpected and welcome call that my 2019 Artist Trust grant proposal was accepted. Artist Trust supports Washington State artists by encouraging “artists working in all disciplines to enrich community life throughout Washington State.”

My grant will support professional development to further my book manuscript exploring mental illness and identity. This award came at a time when I was questioning my validity and voice as a writer, so this support is not only a financial boost to my project, but also serves as an inoculation against the imposter syndrome lurking within. I am indebted and honored to be a GAP award recipient, especially among such outstanding artists.

I’m so grateful to Artist Trust for the important work they do to amplify and energize Washington State artists, and I’m particularly appreciative of the recognition and encouragement the GAP award provides.