Robyn Olfert
2025 The Writer’s Guild Word Awards finalist and Award of Merit
2024 Braun Book Awards finalist
author of
Invisibly Ill and Living with Hope
“I’m sorry, Mrs. Olfert. The results of your MRI were not normal.” 
Those words marked the beginning of the second chronic invisible illness for Robyn Derksen Olfert. As the years progressed, Robyn went on to add two more major illnesses and a raft of less impacting ones.
Living with chronic illness and disability is often overwhelming and challenging, and knowing how to interact with others experiencing these complications can be difficult. In Invisibly Ill and Living with Hope, Robyn candidly shares her story of living with multiple chronic and invisible illnesses and the disability that has resulted. Her vulnerable, transparent, and often humorous writing provides awareness of life with her realities. Robyn empowers her readers to gain understanding of how to relate to individuals in similar circumstances, and she outlines practical ways to make a difference in their lives.
Invisibly Ill and Living with Hope is for people who are struggling and are desperate to know they aren’t alone and for caregivers who want insight into how to be the support their loved ones need. This book is equally for those looking to better understand others who are impacted by health challenges. Above all, this is a book offering hope!
Robyn Derksen Olfert was born and raised in Winnipeg, Canada and has continued to make her home there. She graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Education and enjoyed five and a half years as a middle school teacher. Her career was interrupted when she and her husband, Kevin, joyfully welcomed their daughter, Claire. Claire’s arrival also coincided with Robyn’s “big diagnosis,” which became a life-altering event in her family’s life. Profound fatigue and subsequent disability hindered Robyn’s return to full-time teaching. As the years progressed, she “collected” a total of four significant invisible illnesses along with various less impacting ones.
While in university and managing the first of these illnesses, Robyn completed her Level 10 Piano with the Royal Conservatory of Music, achieving a high standing. This has been one of her greatest accomplishments, and she has joyfully opened her home and heart to students of all ages and abilities in her small private piano studio. Teaching piano has been an ideal blend of her skills.
Robyn and her family have been members of a local church for years, and they have relished their support and community. She enjoys keeping her close extended family and loving circle of friends connected and laughing.
Early praise for Invisibly Ill and Living with Hope
This book explores the different aspects of multiple sclerosis. As described clearly, it’s a lifetime journey, full of obstacles that have been thoroughly discussed. Robyn makes it very clear and easy to read and follow. It’s a mix of subjective and objective professional details that are quite enlightening.
Georges Saab, MD
MS Neurologist
I can say with absolute certainty that this is the first time I’ve laughed out loud while reading about orthotic devices. A delightful read for anyone interested in health care and the intersection of functionality and style—or simply looking to chuckle over some well-placed humour about life with mobility barriers and sweaty feet. Thank you, Robyn, for such a refreshing perspective on health care.Andrew McPhail, CO(c), BHK
Certified Canadian Orthotist
Invisibly Ill and Living with Hope offers a refreshingly honest glimpse into the complexities of navigating life with multiple disabilities. Robyn’s vulnerability sprinkled with humour and detailed descriptions invite readers to walk in her shoes, gaining a deeper understanding of some of the challenges and triumphs that come with living with invisible disabilities. Her teacher-heart shines through as she encourages curiosity and limits judgement, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to be more inclusive and empathetic.Shellie Power, Bachelor of Special Education
Executive Director of Hope Centre Ministries
Robyn’s book is an eloquent and humorous look at a hard and complex journey. She offers beautiful insight into the ways that invisible illness impacts an individual and makes them feel so challenged in our modern society. Luckily, Robyn also offers excellent opportunities to ponder how we can support people better and walk alongside them in ways that are truly useful and validating.Julia Stoesz
Certified Professional Counsellor
With wit, humour, and honesty, Robyn points out the very real struggle between proclaiming the sovereignty and goodness of God while living with disabilities that change our lives. Having personally witnessed Robyn’s journey over the years, I believe she has the qualifications to speak into this reality, sharing the difficulties of her life while also challenging the reader to better understand the world so many with disabilities live in. I’d highly recommend you read it to better understand the journey of so many.Al Letkeman, MDiv
Senior Pastor at Nassau Street Church, Winnipeg, Canada
news and announcements
ordering
Both hardcovers and paperbacks are available to order in the store now. Payment options include etransfer (preferred) and debit or credit card.
The ebook of Invisibly Ill and Living with Hope is now available.
If you prefer, the books will also be available in Christian bookstores and online through the Word Alive Press bookstore, Indigo, and Amazon.
book an interview or speaker appearance
Would you like to interview me or have me speak at an event? Please reach out to me to make arrangements. I’m available to speak on themes covered in the book, which include suffering, finding perspective, disappointment and hope, and living with chronic illness.
let’s connect!
I can’t wait to hear from you. robyn@robynolfert.ca