Salt in My Soul

The diaries of a remarkable young woman who was determined to live a meaningful and happy life despite her struggle with cystic fibrosis and a rare superbug – from age 15 to her death at the age of 25.

Diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of three, Mallory Smith grew up to be a determined, talented young woman who inspired others even as she privately raged against her illness. Despite the daily challenges of endless medical treatments and a deep understanding that she’d never lead a normal life, Mallory was determined to ‘Live Happy’, a mantra she followed until her death. She worked hard to make the most out of the limited time she had, becoming a well-known cystic fibrosis advocate and embarking on a career as a professional writer.

For more than 10 years, Mallory recorded her thoughts and observations about struggles and feelings too personal to share during her life, leaving instructions for her mother to publish her work posthumously. She hoped that her writing would offer insight to those living with, or loving someone with, chronic illness.

What emerges is a powerful and inspiring portrait of a brave young woman and blossoming writer who did not allow herself to be defined by disease. Her words offer comfort and hope to readers, even as she herself was facing death. Salt in My Soul is a beautifully crafted, intimate and poignant tribute to a short life well lived – and a call for all of us to embrace our own lives as fully as possible.

Author Biography

Mallory Smith was a freelance writer and editor specializing in environmental issues, social justice and healthcare-related subjects. She graduated from Stanford University and worked as a senior producer at Green Grid Radio, an environmental storytelling radio show and podcast. She was a fierce advocate for those who suffered from cystic fibrosis, launching the viral social media campaign Lunges4Lungs with friends and raising more than $5 million with her parents for CF research. She died at the age of 25 on 15 November 2017, two months after receiving a double-lung transplant. Mallory’s Legacy Fund has been established in her memory at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. www.saltinmysoulbook.com