Stephanie Nielson's memoir 'Heaven Is Here' describes faith, trials

Nielson, who is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, freely and simply discusses her faith in God and Jesus Christ, scriptures from the Book of Mormon and how prayer, faith, her testimony and blessings have helped and continue to buoy her up and are interwoven through her continued recovery.

"God is aware of all of us," Nielson said. Throughout her experiences, whether an upcoming surgery or a judgment from a passerby, she felt the peace and comfort from God.

Nielson hopes, too, that readers see that "we can do hard things and we have the ability to change our minds and our attitudes. There is always something to live for."

She has shared parts of her story in a Mormon Messages video, "My New Life," her testimony in the recently released "Why I'm a Mormon" and she has spoken at a variety of events, including Time Out for Women in Salt Lake City last November.

Initially, she didn't agree with the proposed title, "Heaven Is Here."

"I believe that I'm looking to heaven," she said. "But we can make our own little heaven here. We all have personal trials and tribulations here, and find happiness here."

The Nielsons are expecting their fifth child, a daughter, in April, but she could come a little early.

"I am still a mother and I have a beautiful relationship with my husband," she said.

If you go ...

What: Stephanie Nielson book signing and "Heaven Is Here" book launch

When: Friday, March 30, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Deseret Book, Downtown Salt Lake, 45 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City

Web: deseretbook.com, nieniedialogues.blogspot.com

Also ...

When: Saturday, March 31, noon-1:30 p.m.

Where: Deseret Book, University Village, 1076 S. 750 East, Orem

And ...

When: Saturday, March 31, 6-8 p.m.

Where: Deseret Book, Downtown Salt Lake, 45 W. South Temple, Salt Lake City

Email: rappleye@desnews.com