Northern Exposure Hosts Author Joni DeSchane

BAGLEY — Northern Exposure to Lifelong Learning Hosts Author Joni DeSchane Next Wednesday.

Northern Exposure to Lifelong Learning (NELL) will present Minnesota author and burn survivor Joni DeSchane next Wednesday at the Bagley American Legion October 14, 9:30-11:00.  

DeSchane, whose mother set her crib on fire when she was a toddler in 1980 in the North Woods of Minnesota, sustained burns to over 70 percent of her body and died three times in the ICU as an infant. After more than 70 surgeries and years in foster care and adoptive homes, she has turned her story into a message of resilience.

Earlier this year, on March 29, 2026, she published her memoir, “Out of Fire and Into Light: A Life Born in Flame” (184 pages). The cover features a phoenix rising from flames.

“Through my troubles I have met God. He’s got my back now,” DeSchane writes, and “I am not this hair, I am not this skin, I am the soul that lives within.” — Rumi

NELL’s free program is open to all ages, with a focus on lifelong learners and seniors. Books will be available for purchase and signing.

When: Wednesday October 14, 2026 9:30-11
Where: Bagley American Legion
For more information call 218-401-1651

NELL is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, PO Box 585, Bagley, MN 56621, enriching quality of life in Clearwater and East Polk Counties through 7-8 free programs each year. Funding for this organization is through private donations, membership, sponsorship, memorials, benefactors, one time donations and the freewill donation for refreshments.