An inspirational Sunshine Coast figure known for her resilience and business success following a life-changing accident has shared her captivating journey in her debut book.
In 2014, Paula Gowland’s life took an unexpected turn when she broke her leg in four places after she fell from a bed while trying to hang curtains in her Kawana Island unit. This freak accident ultimately resulted in the loss of her left leg.
Overcoming two years of hospitalisation and many surgeries, Paula’s new book, titled Legless – One Woman’s Journey from Trauma to Triumph, chronicles the remarkable journey of overcoming adversity, rebuilding life and finding strength in the face of challenges.
“It was a very heartbreaking time for my family as we lost our business and our home. Then, as I set about rebuilding my life, my prosthetic leg malfunctioned and I tripped over and broke my other leg. I ended up in a wheelchair,” she said.
“That was the part that nearly broke me. It left me quite devastated and it took a lot of mental strength to get over that hurdle.”
After Mrs Gowland’s recovery, she unsuccessfully searched for work, prompting her and her husband John to reconsider their family business, Chemdry Suncoast.
This then led to their acquisition of Caloundra Art and Framing Gallery in 2018, which they transformed into Sunshine Coast Art and Framing Gallery in 2019.
“We worked hard and grew from four staff members to 24, added a new workshop and a gallery cafe, and opened a second store in Noosaville. It’s been an amazing journey, seeing our business grow from making $800,000 to a $2.2 million turnover each year,” she said.
In December 2022, Mrs Gowland and her husband also purchased Sunquest Signs, employing 10 staff.
With the success of these businesses, she was nominated for and took home the Sunshine Coast Business Women’s Network 2022 Sustainable Business Woman of the Year award.
Mrs Gowland’s book empowers readers to embrace their own journey, confront their inner demons and emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.
“Throughout the book, I reflect on some very raw and vulnerable insights into the transformative power of overcoming trauma, share practical tools to help readers navigate their own setbacks, and remind readers of the importance of love, commitment and compassion in overcoming life’s challenges,” she said.
Mrs Gowland wants her story to serve as an inspiration to men and women who have experienced trauma, those seeking fulfilment and purpose, and anyone looking to overcome life’s obstacles with grace and resilience.
“I want this book to remind them that no matter how dire the circumstances may seem, there is always hope, and with courage and determination, the impossible can become possible,” she said.
A book launch will be held on Thursday, April 11, at Maroochy Surf Club.
“There’s a mix of nerves and excitement inside me as I release Legless to the world after 10 years in the making, but mostly I’m just thrilled to finally share my story in hopes of helping others,” Mrs Gowland said.
To buy the book or a ticket to the launch click here.
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