Invisible Yet Invaluable part7

Invisible Yet Invaluable part7

October 19, 2018 by ·

Invisible Yet Invaluable

You know who they are.  People who are passionate and committed to helping while encouraging others.  The invisible are invaluable.  They use their talents to let someone else shine. The invisible do not encourage others for accolades.  They do it out of the passion that is in their hearts.    

On November 3, you will be able to meet amazing encouragers and see some of the work that has been done by those that they encourage at the 2018 LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited.   

Location                        St Augustine Catholic Church

                                          1310 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40203

Time                               5:30-7:30pm (the Walk of Hope is at 7pm)

Let us introduce you to Cathy Upshire, Wholeness Strategist, Author, Speaker and Spiritual Wellness Coach.

HeadshotHi, I’m Cathy Upshire. I help women who have lost their sense of identity and power to not only reclaim it so that they can live their lives with dignity and resolve, but I also help them break free from the clenching jaws of their past.  I am not a doctor or a therapist.  I liken myself to a beautiful butterfly.  The colors and intricate patterns embedded in my wings represent all of the collective experiences and lessons I’ve learned along the way.  I spread my wings proudly (void of shame); I spread them wide; because they legitimize me, they authenticate me, they are God’s signature and seal that I am a transformed being; ready and suitable for the task at hand; ready to take those who are wounded, broken and marred on their own personal journeys to inner healing, wholeness, self-acceptance and self-love.

Filed Under: events, LIGHTFEST, Who Inspires You
Invisible Yet Invaluable part6

Invisible Yet Invaluable part6

October 14, 2018 by ·

Invisible Yet Invaluable

You know who they are.  People who are passionate and committed to helping while encouraging others.  The invisible are invaluable.  They use their talents to let someone else shine. The invisible do not encourage others for accolades.  They do it out of the passion that is in their hearts.    

On November 3, you will be able to meet amazing encouragers and see some of the work that has been done by those that they encourage at the 2018 LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited.   

Location                        St Augustine Catholic Church

                                          1310 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40203

Time                               5:30-7:30pm (the Walk of Hope is at 7pm)

Let us introduce you to Surekha Kulkarni, Founder & Executive Director, Beaded Treasures Projectsurekha

Surekha learned the art of jewelry making while on a trip in India and fell in love, which led to teaching a class for students at Jefferson Community College. While volunteering with Kentucky Refugee Ministries, Surekha encountered several women trying to market their handmade jewelry, and she had an idea. She organized a home party for them to sell their work, and within one hour they had sold over $1,000 worth of jewelry!

Beaded Treasures Project began with this small group of dedicated women. Surekha continued teaching more advanced techniques as well as business skills. It wasn’t long before word spread  and more women joined the project. Since 2011, Surekha has taught jewelry making to hundreds of resettled refugee women in Louisville, KY through Beaded Treasures’ “Skills Training Workshops.” 

Filed Under: Uncategorized
Invisible Yet Invaluable part5

Invisible Yet Invaluable part5

October 14, 2018 by ·

Invisible Yet Invaluable

You know who they are.  People who are passionate and committed to helping while encouraging others.  The invisible are invaluable.  They use their talents to let someone else shine. The invisible do not encourage others for accolades.  They do it out of the passion that is in their hearts.    

On November 3, you will be able to meet amazing encouragers and see some of the work that has been done by those that they encourage at the 2018 LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited.   

 Location                        St Augustine Catholic Church

                                         1310 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40203

 Time                              5:30-7:30pm (the Walk of Hope is at 7pm)

 

Let us introduce you to We Survive Volunteer, Dr. Fred Schloemer.

FredI was a troubled child in many ways. I talked non-stop, disobeyed rules, and even set fires for a time. Teachers always told my parents that I was smart and gifted in art, music, and writing. However, they also said that I “didn’t apply myself,” and “didn’t respect authority.” Naturally, hearing myself described that way took a huge toll on my self-esteem.

Later, as a teenager, I would come to understand how my parents’ drinking problems had impacted my behavior when I was younger. I realized then that my childhood acting out had been a cry for help in dealing with a dysfunctional family and home life. At the same time, I also came to understand how I had been literally saved from worsening problems by the support and encouragement of several teachers, extended family members, and adult friends.

These people took a special interest in me and convinced me that I was special. “Yes,” they said, “you are different from other kids, but in a good way.” Realizing how they had uplifted me and my whole life course, I decided I wanted to grow up to one of those adult helpers to other troubled children.

Hoping to be a teacher, I took education courses in college, but the job market for teachers was poor at the time. So, I shifted to studying psychology and sociology and became a clinical social worker. First I worked solely with children, but eventually branched out to adults and seniors, as well. I also achieved my original goal of teaching, at an undergraduate and graduate level.

Now retired due to being diagnosed with cancer four years ago, I can look back on a very satisfying career. For over forty years, I taught, counseled, and did case work for thousands of marginalized people. Volunteering with We Survive and getting to know Sharon, Stephanie, and lots of other talented, committed helpers, has been a welcome extension of my professional career.

I’m glad to be here, and look forward to continuing to be involved with We Survive for years to come.

Filed Under: Uncategorized
Invisible Yet Invaluable part4

Invisible Yet Invaluable part4

October 9, 2018 by ·

Invisible Yet Invaluable

You know who they are.  People who are passionate and committed to helping while encouraging others.  The invisible are invaluable.  They use their talents to let someone else shine. The invisible do not encourage others for accolades.  They do it out of the passion that is in their hearts.    

On November 3, you will be able to meet amazing encouragers and see some of the work that has been done by those that they encourage at the 2018 LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited.   

Location                        St Augustine Catholic Church

                                         1310 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40203

 Time                              5:30-7:30pm (the Walk of Hope is at 7pm)

image (1)Let us introduce you to 2018 LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited Ambassador Sunshine Joe Mallard, World Renowned Tapestry Artisan who adds a spark of light in his work as he records hopes and challenges facing our communities in the tapestries that he creates. 

Sunshine Joe shares his creative artistry gift with children in our local community.  “I try to teach the children that anybody can start a project, but it takes a special person to finish it, and that it’s the little things you do on a daily basis that allow you to accomplish great things over a period of time.” I am making an impact in some children’s lives.” 

Sunshine Joe has definitely made an impact in the children’s lives he has reached with LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited over the 4 past events.image (2)

Filed Under: LIGHTFEST
Invisible Yet Invaluable part3

Invisible Yet Invaluable part3

September 28, 2018 by ·

Invisible Yet Invaluable

You know who they are.  People who are passionate and committed to helping while encouraging others.  The invisible are invaluable.  They use their talents to let someone else shine. The invisible do not encourage others for accolades.  They do it out of the passion that is in their hearts.    

On November 3, you will be able to meet amazing encouragers and see some of the work that has been done by those that they encourage at the 2018 LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited.   

Location                        St Augustine Catholic Church

                                        1310 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40203

 Time                              5:30-7:30pm (the Walk of Hope is at 7pm)

rev carolLet us introduce you to Rev Carol Wieger, Pastor of New Life in Christ Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) located inside Dismas Charities – Diersen and supported by Mission Behind Bars and Beyond Inc.

“I believe that God has blessed each of us with a gift.  That gift may not be readily apparent to us without the encouragement and discernment of another individual.  That gift may not be something that’s exactly tangible, either.  But, regardless, we each have a beautiful gift to share with one another.

When we realize that we have something valuable to share, we realize that we are valuable.  Unfortunately, not everyone has felt this before in their lives. 

My hope is to serve women in a capacity that leaves them feeling empowered, valued, capable, and respected.  When all these goals are achieved, the gifts that are found within each one of us can be shared with others… and that’s when the beauty truly begins.”

Filed Under: LIGHTFEST, Who Inspires You
Invisible Yet Invaluable part2

Invisible Yet Invaluable part2

September 28, 2018 by ·

Invisible Yet Invaluable

You know who they are.  People who are passionate and committed to helping while encouraging others.  The invisible are invaluable.  They use their talents to let someone else shine. The invisible do not encourage others for accolades.  They do it out of the passion that is in their hearts.    

On November 3, you will be able to meet amazing encouragers and see some of the work that has been done by those that they encourage at the 2018 LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited.   

Location                        St Augustine Catholic Church

                                        1310 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40203

 Time                              5:30-7:30pm (the Walk of Hope is at 7pm)

 blue browningLet us introduce you to Jacqueline “Blue” Browning, a psychiatric nurse who works with patients across the life span and volunteers to offer hope through health and wellness education.

Since a very young age, I knew I was placed on this planet with a mission, that mission being help others heal. Little did I know of the pain and struggles I would have to face and conquer in order to understand the concept of survival and thriving.  Everything I do, I do with the vision of being my best version, so I may impact others who may need a glimmer of hope, a kind word, reassurance. Many people whether it be family, friends or strangers have given me just that along the way. I am eternally grateful to them and work to give back every day. 

My goal is to bring holistic care to my patients and with those whom I volunteer. We all share this planet; this living breathing planet and we are all connected. My hope is to have people re-connect with themselves so that they may connect with others. Connection is what makes us strong. Together we are an unstoppable force.

Filed Under: LIGHTFEST, Who Inspires You
Invisible Yet Invaluable

Invisible Yet Invaluable

September 25, 2018 by ·

You know who they are.  People who are passionate and committed to helping while encouraging others.  The invisible are invaluable.  They use their talents to let someone else shine. The invisible do not encourage others for accolades.  They do it out of the passion that is in their hearts.    

On November 3, you will be able to meet amazing encouragers and see some of the work that has been done by those that they encourage at the 2018 LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited while learning about the “Learn and Earn” initiative.  

Location                     St Augustine Catholic Church

                                      1310 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40203

 Time                            5:30-7:30pm (the Walk of Hope is at 7pm)

carol annLet us introduce you to Carol Ann Balogh, Owner and Founder of Enrichment Activities, LLC.

“I am focused on each Individual finding their purpose.  Thus enabling them to feel more a part of their community. I want to help them to find how they can actually give of their own efforts, which will fulfill and enrich their own lives and increase their own self-esteem.

No matter what skills a person possesses, no matter what challenges he or she is going thru.  Everyone has the ability to move forward.

I want to be the person who helps a person find that talent, that skill, that interest…To take that interest and ignite that passion in their own ability to push forward.  To not only enjoy life, but to expand on the purpose to keep living.  To connect with the community, as a vital part of the community.”

Filed Under: LIGHTFEST, Who Inspires You
A Social Entrepreneurial Initiative

A Social Entrepreneurial Initiative

August 7, 2018 by ·

We Survive – Learn and Earn

A Social Entrepreneurial Initiative

Written by Sharon Cecil

2018 was the inaugural year for We Survive’s VOICES – Passport to Art, held at the Mellwood Art and Entertainment Center on March 24, an entertaining and educational event celebrating the power of various art forms to promote health, wellness and healing.   

https://wesurvive.org/voices/nggallery/thumbnails

Much discussion took place after the event regarding ways that momentum will continue regarding this ideology and turning it into an ongoing program. The conversation turned towards health and diet. Someone there recommended the use of a natural health supplement that can be ordered at kratommasters.com. It is something that we may also employ in a future program, although at this time many details still need to be ironed out.

On July 31, Learn and Earn held a Meet and Greet in order to brainstorm on how this initiative can empower people marginalized by illness, abuse-neglect, poverty, hunger, or homelessness while educating participants on how the arts can be a vehicle to personal transformation and positive social change.

There was a brief writing session regarding HOPE followed by an open discussion on how can we best offer HOPE through the Learn and Earn Network utilizing the creative arts.

Another meeting in the next few weeks will give us the structure and strategic components that will lead to the Learn and Earn kick-off.

Knowing that there are many approaches to mental and physical healing, we will be utilizing writing and the creative arts to offer many choices for participants to express him or herself.   

 “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.

Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”  ~Helen Keller~

 

A Special Thank You to: 

Cathy Upshire – Wellness CoachLearn and Earn

Sharon Cecil, RN – We Survive 

Alison Johnson, MSSW, retired therapist and trainer. 

Dr. Fred Schloemer –  Development Director We Survive 

Diane Corsey – Passport Health Plan

Surekha Kulkarni – Beaded Treasures Project  

Dr. Marlene  Will – Spalding University 

Blue Browning – Our Lady of Peace 

Pastor Carol Wieger –   Mission Behind Bars and Beyond – not in picture

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Learn and Earn – A Personal Perspective

July 3, 2018 by ·

Learn and Earn

A Personal Perspective

Written by Sharon Cecil

Growing up in a dysfunctional family and my mother’s death my senior year of high school set me on a journey full of exploration and discovery that included a failed marriage, multiple moves and several jobs.  I was full of doubt, had no self-esteem or confidence in myself. But, I knew that I had to learn in order to earn my way in life.

While married to my first husband, I experienced a turbulent yet MIRACULOUS pregnancy, I gave birth to a beautiful, healthy, bouncing baby girl in 1972.  Whew—after experiencing a Postpartum Depression, I was in need of a full body wellness experience.  

In order to be a good mother, I knew that I was going to need a lot of guidance.  Mental health seemed to be what was needed the most.  Part of the health care plan was to become engaged in therapeutic crafts.  This seemed to be the most beneficial part of my care plan, it was important to learn as much as I could.

In 1974, I started a craft class at Bardstown Road Presbyterian Church in Louisville, KY with the Highland Community Ministries.  This class lasted until the mid-1980’s.

During this time, I found myself to be a single parent after a difficult divorce.   I learned how to barter, and sell consignments utilizing my craft skills.  In order to supplement my income, I began:

  • doing cleaning at a local sewing center in exchange for sewing lessons and material to make my daughter and myself clothes 
  • making craft items to sell at a shop in St. Matthews, KY
  • learning a simple painting style while talking ceramic lessons in order to teach lessons for a craft shop in Jeffersontown, KY.

In 1979, an opportunity was available for me to go to college on a grant. During the discussion with my advisor, I shared that I would like to do hair styling, be a seamstress, chef or baker—something artistic.  He said that the only college course that would fit the list was chef through a Culinary Arts Program, which was not recommended.  He said that if I wanted to do something artistic, “you need to minor in art and get a traditional degree.”  He pushed business.  

I decided to get an Art Degree with no business in the mix.  

Some years passed, and I became a Registered Nurse. Since then, I‘ve applied my art and nursing skills as a psychiatric nurse, university lecturer, health educator and social advocate to design creative programming that benefit others.

As cancer survivors, my late husband, Moody Cecil, and I co-founded We Survive in 1994.  In 2012, Moody became dependent on me for much of his care.  Choosing to keep Moody at home was a choice I don’t regret making. Although it drained our finances and I am now experiencing financial fragility, I am a fighter who will not sit back with self-doubt.  That will not get me anywhere.   

In 2014, it was decided to re-ignite an event that was originally held in 1997—LIGHTFEST.  By 2015, we became less involved in the community because of both of our medical challenges.  But it was still possible to keep LIGHTFEST Re-Ignited (LFR) viable.  In 2017, LFR was celebrated in over 70 cities and 2 countries. It has been the goal of LIGHTFEST to reach an international level whereby everyone around the world will shine a Light of HOPE.

I faced life’s tragic obstacles that came with a dysfunctional family, the harshness of not being loved by a parent to watching people self-destruct through poor choices. Once I married Moody, I learned how to be loved unconditionally, believe in myself and dare to dream. 

Moody and I faced many obstacles and yet never gave up our passion to help others.  We blended our talents and created We Survive.  Our obstacles were many but our resolve was strong.

My actions have been from acquiring a deep-seated desire to never have another person feel alone or afraid.  As my husband would say to me and I now say to others, “I will believe in you until you believe in yourself. “  

Moody passed away in December of 2016.  Today I sit here writing this story thinking about the Business Degree I didn’t pursue and the lessons I have learned along the journey life has taken. Having personally experienced the power of hope, I am inspired to share that message with others through art and nature. I believe that “Art Saves Lives.”  It has saved mine numerous times.  

This year, We Survive is kicking off a Social Entrepreneurship Initiative—Learn and Earn which had gained momentum due to We Survive’s Voices – Passport to Art that took place in March 2018.

It is important to do what gets you excited–Purposeful Living is about living a life that you love.

I feel that Learn and Earn is not just about the potential to earn money. It’s about earning self-respect, self-confidence, recognition and support, and learn entrepreneurial skills. If some money can be earned, great!!!

Watch this short video to learn more about We Survive and some of its programming.


 

Filed Under: events, Inspirational Stories, LIGHTFEST, Luminating Letters, Portrayal of Hope, Stories, Who Inspires You, Words to Inspire, Works that Inspire, You Inspiring Others
Aaron – Doing the Work

Aaron – Doing the Work

May 22, 2018 by ·
Clearback-60-Anniversary-Logo-Dual-Version
Doing the Work
Written by: Aaron
 
My name is Aaron and I’m 33 years old. I’m a native Kentuckian, I graduated from high school, and I went to college for five semesters. I’m going to start with the good stuff. Like how Bridgehaven has helped me.
 
Cognitive Enhancement Therapy is like no other treatment modality. Let me explain what CET is by first explaining what it is not.
 
When somebody has mental illness, and goes to the doctor, two things are often recommended: medication or talk therapy. CET has no risks or side effects, which the others can have. As a matter of fact, I believe CET is SO safe and effective that it will become the gold standard in treating mental illness.
 
CET breaks down your brain and rebuilds it, much like exercise. Or joining the Marines, like my grandpa! Breaks you down, builds you up. Your brain actually feels physically sore, a sensation that is veeeery interesting. After several hours of CET on Thursdays, I used to go home and go straight to bed, exhausted.
 
The commitment is for a year. Our trainers emphasize things like not speaking without raising your hand, and being supportive without being judgmental. We would exercise our brains on the computer before class, then learn a lesson. My worker described it as “watching the gears turn in our heads.” Homework came next. Then I’d talk to my therapist about how the results applied to my life. At the next group, we got feedback from the other members. It was a complete process.
 
My life has been forever changed by Bridgehaven and Cognitive Enhancement Therapy. CET changed my thinking, my behavior, and my communication skills. It’s also increased my motivation and tolerance, which is called mental flexibility.
 
Bridgehaven has taught me what emotional safety means. It’s been an absolute leader in advocacy. Bridgehaven has combated stigma, and helped protect me from it.
 
This is exactly the kind of thing I sought when I came here in the first place. In 2003, a ’76 Buick came into my life and my body and my head. I was ONLY 19.
 
I was hit from behind. At the time, I didn’t know the damage my brain had sustained. I lost everything within six months:  my job, my insurance, my school… my fraternity, my home, my girlfriend …and most critically, my health.
 
Prior to the accident, I had been diagnosed with narcolepsy, which causes excessive daytime sleepiness, and cataplexy, which is physical body paralysis triggered by strong emotion. I went a long time without correct diagnosis of a Traumatic Brain Injury.
 
Having experienced eight years of living hell, my attorney finally won my disability, giving me insurance for the first time since the wreck.  Up until then, I hadn’t been able to see doctors regularly nor receive the appropriate medication. I DID get a referral to Frasier Neuro Rehab, where we finally made the connection between the accident and my pain, grief, and confusion, the last of which was probably the worst.
 
There’s an additional level of pain to lose everything and have no idea why. I was told I was crazy or lazy. Knowing I had a TBI, I could find the right therapy to FIX it.
 
Frasier treated me on and off for two years, until a wise case manager took me to BRIDGEhaven. When I arrived here, I took every class I could. I’m an overachiever, so I worked as hard as possible, but I was still struggling. I had a lot of anger outbursts and lack of motivation, which were symptomatic of the TBI, but manifested as emotional issues. They’re very different, and but have a lot of overlap. CET helped me differentiate between the two.
 
Bridgehaven has inspired me to stand up for the vulnerable, no matter what their illness. It’s been a cultural eye opener for me. I want other members to gain what I have gained. The key to it all is DOING THE WORK. People who are untreated for mental illness have tried a lot of things that DO NOT work. Bridgehaven and CET DO work, and whatever you’re going through emotionally, this place and this therapy can be an answer. 
Filed Under: Uncategorized