Gillian Marchenko

Gillian Marchenko is an author, speaker, and advocate whose work centers on mental health, disability, faith, and the complexities of life’s challenges. She is the author of Sun Shine Down: A Memoir and Still Life: A Memoir of Living Fully with Depression, both of which offer honest and poignant reflections on navigating life with authenticity and resilience. Gillian’s writing is characterized by vulnerability and hope, as she shares her experiences as a mother, a person living with depression, and a voice for inclusion and understanding.

Originally from the United States, Gillian spent time living overseas with her husband, Sergei, and their family as missionaries in Ukraine, where they worked in church planting and community development. During this time, her life took an unexpected turn with the birth of her daughter with Down syndrome, an event that profoundly shaped her faith and perspective. Gillian’s journey has given her a unique lens to explore the intersections of disability, identity, and grace, encouraging others to find meaning and purpose in their own stories.

As a speaker, Gillian is known for her warmth and relatability, often addressing topics such as mental health, parenting, and faith in the midst of struggle. She is passionate about breaking down stigmas surrounding depression and disability and empowering others to embrace both the beauty and brokenness of life.

Gillian lives in the Chicago area with her husband and their four children. She enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family. Her work continues to inspire audiences with its honesty and its reminder that even in life’s hardest moments, there is room for grace, growth, and connection. Gillian’s voice resonates with those seeking hope and a deeper understanding of what it means to live fully in the midst of life’s complexities.