Local publishes ‘graphic and honest' e-book

Kim Vedegys recently released an e-published biographical novel about her childhood. But, she warns, before going to download it to your Kindle, brace yourself.

“It’s very graphic and honest,” said Vedegys.

Vedegys, who says she is a recovering victim of child abuse, wrote the first draft for the book in 1999 to help herself heal and to share the message with those who may be suffering.

“It’s been a long process. Sometimes I had to just back away,” she said.

At 13-years-old, Vedegys brought the abuse to the attention of her assistant principal.

“He saved my life,” she said.

Since those troubled times, things are looking up for Vedegys, who moved from Ohio to start a new life in Santa Rosa Beach five years ago. She says her only son, T.J., now all grown up, is the light of her life.

“He’s put everything from my childhood right,” she said. “I didn’t have a childhood until I had my son.”

And he even contributed to the book by designing the cover.

She is getting married next month to her high school love interest. Although the two grew up in the same town, their love never came to fruition. However, decades later, by the powers of Facebook, Vedegys and local photographer Randy Chestnutt rekindled their relationship.

Not only are they getting married, they are starting their own catering business, Chestnutt Catering.

“I love putting on huge spreads,” said Vedegys. “I would always insist the Christmas party would be at our house. And I would use any excuse to have a party for the neighborhood kids.”

 “You’re to Call Him Daddy” is available for $2.99 at Amazon.com. For more information about Vedegys, the book, or for a list of agencies to help prevent and stop child abuse, visit youretocallhimdaddy.com or “Like” You’re to Call Him Daddy on Facebook.

“It’s not about the money; It’s about getting help to the people who need help,” she said.