Sedona News (July 22, 2021) Sedona resident Barbara Kammerer Quayle would not let anything stand in the way of her dreams, not even a fiery car crash that almost derailed them. Instead of being taken down by the calamity, she fought against all odds, returned to her life and authored a book about her experience and struggle titled Chasing My Dreams: From Traumatic Burns To Triumphant Survival.
Her book is an inspirational memoir of a compassionate and determined woman who quietly and purposefully fought for those who needed to find their own voice.
Barbara’s dream job was being a teacher, impacting the lives of junior high kids so they could excel in life. Her dream became jeopardized after the car crash left her with a severe burn injury over 40% of her body. Barbara’s hospitalization in a California burn center for nearly three months resulted in the amputation of the fingers on her right hand and numerous skin grafts.
After discharge, she found herself facing the discrimination of the public’s reactions to her facial and body difference, The public reacted with constant stares and startled glances, intrusive questions and rude remarks, exclusion and discrimination.
Her trauma began a life-long mission to develop behavioral skills to empower burn survivors and anyone with a facial or body difference to manage social situations and to live a meaningful and productive life. In an age when the disabled and facially disfigured were shunned by societal norms, her advocacy paved the way for kids and adults to find their path back to life.
Barbara is active in many organizations throughout the Sedona community. She spearheaded 100 Women Who Care Sedona-Verde Valley Chapter in 2019.
Her book is available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble.
Chasing My Dreams: From Traumatic Burns To Triumphant Survival
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22 Comments
Barbara Quayle is a true inspiration. She possesses a spirit of gratitude and true compassion. I just ordered the book and am looking forward to reading it. She is a treasure!
Nancy ordered the book and we are both looking forward to reading it. I will be sending the link to this page to a friend in Phoenix who is founder and CEO of TeamVeteran.org. He is in contact with many veterans who have gone through similar trauma who might benefit from Barbara’s inspirational book.
Barbara is truly an amazing and beautiful soul! Her story will be an inspiration for so many. Thank you Barbara for sharing your story! I am blessed to know you.
I have known Barbara for over 30 years and count her as one of my very good friends. Can’t wait to read the book.
Barbara is truly an inspiration to all of us.
I am honored to call Barbara my friend of 40+ years…a friendship that began when she returned to the classroom after her burn injury. I knew from the moment I met her that she is an incredible human. Her story will inspire. Her compassion, faith and devotion to helping others are beyond compare.
I’m looking forward to reading Barbara’s book. She’s a beautiful inspiration to all.
I have the honor of calling Barbara Quayle my Friend; and I am so humbled by her Spiritual Power, and resiliency … Barb is incredibly gracious AND graceful. She defines “Grace Under Pressure”. Her constant upbeat attitude inspires us all!
Barbara is a giving person in 2 women’s organizations and always has a warm smile for everyone and a willing heart to always help others. She is generous and kind and I am thrilled for her upcoming book to come out. I do look forward to reading it.
Barbara is a lifelong friend who demonstrates courage, perseverance and a continual desire to help others. I’m happy to see her story in print …..she has touched many lives and continues to do so.
Congrats to you Dear Friend!
Barbara’s story and work has been impacting thousands of burn survivors around the globe for decades. I am so excited for her story to be in print as it will impact those far beyond the burn community with life lessons of resilience, faith and fortitude. She inspires you to take charge of your life and put in the work necessary to make yourself and this world a better place. Congrats to you Barbara for delivering on yet another dream.
Inspiration at its fullest. Can’t wait to read this. Barbara is beautiful person inside and out. Congrats on your publication!
My friend, Barbara Quayle, never ceases to amaze me. I have been honored to work along side her in The Sedona Women and 100 Women Who Care. She is an inspirational leader full of compassion and love for others. I’m looking forward to reading her book. Congratulations Barbara!
My wife and I gave been cherished friends and neighbors of Barbra Quayle for 30 years. She has inspired us every since we met over our back yard arroyo. I am very anxious to read her book, Chasing my Dreams.
Barbara inspired me as a burn rehab professional and as a person. She is awesomely beautiful to the core and I can’t wait to read her memoir. Well done my friend!!
Barbara is truly an inspiration to me and those she touches. I am blessed to call her a dear friend. I have said it before, and I will say it again—she is a “rock star.” The book just arrived. I cannot wait to read it.
Yea Barbara! Congratulations from Nashville, TN!!
When I think of you, I am reminded of the truest value of a person – one’s spirit – and you have an outstanding spirit. You glow with life and I love being in your company.
I am certain this book will help and inspire all who read it. I’m ordering my copy tonight!
Barbara is a true inspiration to all of us. Always a smile on her beautiful face, and the kindest words always spoken. I ordered her book today and can’t wait to read it. She is loved by all!
Barbara has been an inspiration for me. She never complains about what she is unable to do, rather finds a way to circumvent a challenge and work around it.
Barbara has been an inspired for me. With her indomitable spirit, she’s never on the sidelines!!
I’m trying to find Barbara. Anyone know how I can reach her via email? I live in Sedona and am a writer who is working on my memoir about my traumatic brain injury. I need some inspiration and a a beta reader. GG
Can’t wait to read this. Barbara is a gem and such an asset to this community. ❤️