From Bedtime Worries to Brave Mornings: What Inspired The Pain in My Belly?

As a writer, I’ve often found that the most powerful stories come from our own experiences—the moments of vulnerability, the quiet struggles, and the deep emotions we sometimes can’t express. The Pain in My Belly was born out of such a moment, a time when I witnessed the raw, heart-wrenching way children carry their worries and fears.

Like many parents, I’ve seen how children often struggle to articulate what’s bothering them. As a mother, I’ve watched my own child try to hold back tears, only to have their pain show up in physical ways—like a stomach ache or a reluctance to go to school. These experiences sparked the idea for The Pain in My Belly, a story about a young girl named Noreen, who experiences anxiety about her mother’s surgery, only to have that fear manifest as a stomach ache.

The inspiration for Noreen’s character came from my own children’s challenges with fear and anxiety, especially in situations that felt out of their control. It’s natural for kids to feel vulnerable when faced with changes in their lives—whether it’s a parent being away or a sudden shift in routine. They don’t always know how to process these emotions, and they certainly don’t have the words to explain what they’re feeling. In Noreen’s case, her fear is translated into a physical symptom—an aching belly—and it takes her time to realize that her worry is what’s causing the discomfort.

Writing this book was not just about capturing a specific emotional experience, but also about showing how important it is for children to have someone to talk to. Through Phyllis, Noreen’s caregiver, we see how gentle listening and empathy can help a child feel heard and understood. The book isn’t just about identifying and validating a child’s feelings; it’s about building the confidence to face those feelings, even when they seem overwhelming.

For me, writing The Pain in My Belly was also a reminder of the value of opening up—of creating a space for kids to express their emotions without shame. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is just listen. The strength of children lies in their ability to share their worries with the right person, and I hope this story serves as a gentle encouragement for children (and adults) to do just that.

If there’s one message I’d love readers to take from Noreen’s journey, it’s this: You are never alone in your fears. Talking through the tears can be the first step toward healing, and even the bravest among us need a little help sometimes. Just like Noreen, I hope every child learns that their feelings matter, and that by sharing them, they can begin to feel better.