Chapin author releases book on Mississippi River expedition

What began as a journey down the Mississippi River has become something much more personal — and now, a newly published book by Chapin author John Wellens is inviting readers to paddle alongside him through the adventure, the danger and the emotional journey that unfolded along the way.

“Crossing Muddy Waters: Paddle. Endure. Heal” is Wellens' newly released memoir chronicling an expedition that pushed him physically and emotionally while exploring a much deeper subject: the human capacity to endure adversity, find healing and keep moving forward.

The 255-page book, published on Sept. 19, is now available through Amazon.com. The paperback edition sells for $19.31.

“Crossing Muddy Waters” is about far more than an expedition, Wellens says.

Throughout the book, Wellens weaves his adventure together with conversations and stories surrounding mental health.

“Some are heartbreaking. Others are deeply inspirational. Together, they create a message centered on awareness, resilience, hope and the possibility of healing,” a news release explains.

For Wellens, the journey also became an opportunity to turn a personal adventure into a platform for helping others.

During the expedition, he raised more than $14,000 for NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, at the national level. The fundraising effort continues today, with readers able to access the campaign through a QR code included in the book. In addition, 100% of the net proceeds from book sales will be donated to NAMI at the affiliate level.

“I wanted this book to be about more than what happened on the river,” said Wellens. “The expedition became a vehicle for conversations about mental health, resilience and healing. If sharing my story helps someone recognize that they aren't alone — or gives someone hope when they need it most — then the journey was worth it.”

The book's central themes — “Paddle. Endure. Heal” — reflect the progression of the journey itself. What begins as an adventure becomes a test of endurance and ultimately a deeper exploration of what it means to heal.

“A South Carolina resident and a NAMI South Carolina board member, Wellens brings a perspective that blends adventure, storytelling and a commitment to making a difference,” the release says. “His work on behalf of mental-health awareness makes ‘Crossing Muddy Waters’ particularly relevant at a time when conversations about mental health and emotional well-being continue to grow in importance.”

The book is also an invitation to readers to consider their own “muddy waters” — the challenges, setbacks and difficult seasons that can make forward progress seem impossible.

Wellens is a South Carolina-based author whose professional background includes talent acquisition and leadership. For more information on the book, visit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0HHGBMMST?lv.