A new book chronicles the journey of area equestrienne Jessica Phoenix from growing up on an Uxbridge farm to representing her country at the Olympic Games.

Penned by her sister, Julie Fitz-Gerald, Rise: The Jessica Phoenix Story opens roughly two months prior to the 2015 Pan Am Games in Toronto when Phoenix suffered a litany of serious injuries after being thrown from the mount during a competition in New Jersey.

“Jessica and I had talked about writing a book for a number of years, but after the 2016 Rio Olympics we decided it was time to put pen to paper. After two Olympic Games, Pan Am medals in every colour and overcoming a near-fatal accident in 2015, we had a lot to write about,” Fitz-Gerald said.

“From the ICU to the Pan Am podium, her story is really an inspiring call to action to push through obstacles, walk in faith and follow your passion.”

Despite those injuries – which included three broken ribs, a broken clavicle, a broken sacrum and damage to her liver – Phoenix still competed at the Pan Am Games, winning an individual silver and team bronze in eventing.

“As a journalist I get to tell people’s inspiring stories for a living, but having the opportunity to share my sister’s Olympic journey is a dream come true. I’ve witnessed her greatest trials and triumphs first-hand, which I believe translates in the book. It’s a unique situation to be in,” Fitz-Gerald said.

The pair promoted the book at the Royal Winter Fair over the weekend – where Phoenix also collected a $20,000 prize for winning an eventing competition – before heading to Montreal for an appearance on Breakfast Television on Tuesday (Nov. 7)

They’ll be heading to Chapters in Ajax for a signing on Saturday (Nov. 11) before the official launch at the Tin Mill in Uxbridge next Wednesday (Nov. 15).

“The reception has been amazing so far…We’re grateful to Roar Publishing who came on board early on and has supported our vision the entire way through,” Fitz-Gerald said.

“We’re really looking forward to meeting with readers and chatting about the book at the launch event.”

Copies of the book can be ordered online at roar-group.com/product/rise-pre-order/ and will be shipped directly to the customer.

The first 500 copies of the special first edition will be signed by Phoenix and Fitz-Gerald prior to shipping.