Don Preston has released his debut book 'Bridges Over Troubled Waters: My Life of Faith and Fortitude,' a memoir spanning nearly eight decades that explores profound personal loss, societal judgments against mental illness, and the sustaining power of faith. The book, structured as interconnected stories rather than a chronological narrative, illustrates moments where divine intervention provided strength during times of need.
Preston, who retired in 2023 after a 54-year banking career concluding as Senior Vice President of Cadence Bank, writes about telling his young children about their mother's death and facing societal stigma surrounding mental health. The memoir serves as both a recounting of suffering and a celebration of the human spirit's resilience, emphasizing that faith offers a way forward even in seemingly impossible situations.
Early responses highlight the book's emotional impact and authenticity. Reverend Dr. Nicole Partin Abdnour of Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church noted Preston's narrative points to 'the power and presence of God in all of life - good times and bad.' Steve Mauldin of CNL Financial Group described the work as 'a wholly authentic and soul sustaining story of resilience and faith' distinguished by its unflinching honesty about missteps and hard-earned lessons.
The publishing process itself proved transformative. Publisher FG Morgan of GeeMorgan Publishing described working on the manuscript as 'both a heartbreaking and gut-wrenching experience' that ultimately brought them closer to their faith. Nma Marylyn Uwalaka celebrated Preston's courage in highlighting mental health awareness and the power of community support, while Ifeoma Cynthia Ekenna noted how the author's Christianity informs his professional and personal roles.
Readers can obtain the book through major retailers including Amazon. The memoir's release represents Preston's fulfillment of a lifelong writing dream following his banking career, which included significant roles at Wachovia Bank and Trust, Fifth Third Bank, and First Florida Bank specializing in commercial lending and credit administration.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Preston holds an M.B.A. with honors from the University of Kentucky with additional education from Northwestern University School of Management and Wake Forest University Credit School. An active community member, he participates in Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church, Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, and the Palma Ceia Golf & Tennis Club. The book memorializes his late wife Susan, with whom he traveled extensively to 35 states and over ten countries before her passing in 2022.
'Bridges Over Troubled Waters' arrives as many seek narratives of hope amid personal and societal challenges. The memoir's exploration of maintaining faith through tragedy, professional pressures, and family loss provides a timely reflection on spiritual resilience. Preston's journey from banking executive to published author demonstrates how life experiences across different domains can coalesce into meaningful storytelling that resonates with readers facing their own difficulties.
