In a small, tight-knit immigrant community, Irene Wong faced the battle of a lifetime—one that no mother should ever have to fight. When her son, Joe, began to show signs of mental illness, Irene’s world came crashing down. Torn between cultural shame and the fierce love she had for her son, Irene's journey would test the limits of her strength, her courage, and her resolve. Rosemead is the heart-wrenching true story of one mother’s fight against stigma, a journey fraught with heartache, perseverance, and moments of fragile hope. As Joe’s condition worsens, Irene must confront the unspoken taboos of her community and face the truth that her son needs professional help. Each decision, each painful step, forces Irene to not only fight for her son’s life but to shatter the silence around mental illness that has gripped her cultural background for far too long. This emotional rollercoaster of a story captures the raw reality of a mother’s unwavering love and the sacrifice that it demands. As Irene advocates for her son’s right to care, she becomes a beacon of hope for others suffering in silence, showing them that they, too, are not alone in their struggles. A journey that begins in denial evolves into a powerful mission to break the stigma surrounding mental health in her community. Rosemead isn’t just the story of Irene and Joe; it is the story of every family affected by mental illness, every mother fighting for her child, and every person whose voice has been silenced by shame. It is a call to action, a reminder that the most profound love transcends cultural boundaries and societal judgment. If you have ever felt alone in the battle against mental illness, if you’ve ever wondered how to overcome the walls of stigma that keep you from speaking your truth, Rosemead is the book you need to read. Irene’s story will inspire you to find the courage to break the silence and stand up for yourself and your loved ones.
