By TIFFANY REPECKI trepecki@breezenewspapers com

Reservations are open for a free upcoming workshop that will focus on therapeutic writing

The Captiva Civic Association will host “Voices of the Storm: Writing Your Story in the Aftermath of Hurricane Ian” on March 14 from 10 to 11:30 a m at the Captiva Civic Center Led by author, editor and island resident Ilie Ruby, participants will learn how to process their experiences through writing

E x e c u t i v e D i r e c t o r

E m i l y H e s s A n k e r s o n explained that Ruby proposed the workshop to help people process any trauma through writing, particular- ly as it relates to what they have dealt with with Ian

“All storms become personal, and if you drill down deep enough, the personal becomes universal,” Ruby shared “While many of us have been pouring our energy into rebuilding our homes, businesses and communities, it's vital that we include ourselves in the 'rebuilding' equation Processing our personal experience through writing can help us restore our inner resources.”

“Telling our story is a proven and powerful tool for healing,” she added

Ankerson explained that Ruby has experience teaching others how to use writing to heal In the workshop, she will guide participants through the process by using examples and her background

“She will lead people through the process of writing to process trauma,” she said c a p t i v a s a n i b e l . c o m