AwareNow: Issue 51: 'The Roads Edition'

AWARENOW

THE WORLD'S OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR CAUSES

AARON BAKER

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW ‘ADVERSITY INTO ADVENTURE’

JESSICA ZWEIG

‘THE ALCHEMY OF SELF-DISCOVERY’

FOX RIGNEY

‘THE SPOON THEORY’

ERIN MACAULEY

‘GETTING MY LIFE BACK’

JONATHAN KOHANSKI

‘A GOOD NIGHT OF SLEEP’

SABRINA BEN SALMI

‘SUCCESS REDEFINED’

DR. TODD BROWN

‘AMERICA’S POLITICAL AMNESIA’

CRYSTAL FOX

‘THROWN TO THE WOLVES’

PAUL ROGERS

‘THE UPSIDES’

THE ROADS EDITION

PATHS LESS TRAVELLED BY

THE ROADS EDITION

ON THE COVER: AARON BAKER PHOTO BY: CHRIS BOULTON

AwareNow Magazine is a monthly publication produced by AwareNow Media™, a storytelling platform dedicated to creating and sustaining positive social change with content that inspires and informs, while raising awareness for causes one story at a time.

INTERVIEW

ALLIÉ MCGUIRE

SUCCESS REDEFINED

SABRINA BEN SALMI

ADVERSITY INTO ADVENTURE

AARON BAKER

THROWN TO THE WOLVES CRYSTAL FOX, NSSC

THE ALCHEMY OF SELF-DISCOVERY

JESSICA ZWEIG

THE UPSIDES

PAUL ROGERS

THE SURVIVOR PATH

JACK MCGUIRE

BECAUSE I CAN

ALLIÉ MCGUIRE

AMERICA’S POLITICAL AMNESIA

DR. TODD BROWN

IN PRAISE OF CHILDISH THINGS BURT KEMPNER

GETTING MY LIFE BACK

ERIN MACAULEY

THE SPOON THEORY

FOX RIGNEY A

SPIRITUAL AWAKENINGS

SUSAN GRAU

SUPERHIGHWAY

DEBORAH WEED

PUGILIST

SONJA MONTIEL

BEYOND SURVIVAL DENISE REDEKER

SOILHAWK

SAKSHAM BANSAL, TANITH HARDING

INVISIBLE BOUNDARIES

TAYLOR RAU

HANGING COFFEES AWARENOW

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I - I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.

Robert Frost

road: (n.) a series of events or a course of action that will lead to a particular outcome

Our lives are defined by the roads we travel and the decisions we make along the way. Each choice, each turn, carries the weight of our intentions and aspirations, shaping not only our own destinies but the collective future of humanity. As we navigate these paths, the causes we champion and the actions we take ripple outward, affecting communities, societies, and the world at large. In ‘The Roads Edition’, we explore the profound impact of these decisions, emphasizing that the paths we take today will determine the world we leave for our children.

In a time when change is both urgent and necessary, we know it will take each and everyone of us to act. "We will no longer ask for permission to change the world." This edition is a call to action, encouraging each of us to consciously choose roads that lead to positive, lasting change. By understanding the power of our decisions and the roads we travel, we can create a future where the human cause is defined by compassion, innovation, and resilience. Let us take this journey together, boldly and without hesitation, for the sake of our children and generations to come.

WAIVER/DISCLAIMER

ALLIÉ McGUIRE

Co-Director of AwareNow Media, CEO & Co-Founder of Awareness Ties

Allié started her career in performance poetry, then switched gears to wine where she made a name for herself as an online wine personality and content producer. She then focused on content production under her own label The Allié Way™ before marrying the love of her life, Jack, and switching gears yet again to a pursue a higher calling to raise awareness and funds for causes with Awareness Ties and AwareNow Media.

JACK McGUIRE

Co-Director of AwareNow Media, President & Co-Founder of Awareness Ties

Jack got his start in the Navy before his acting and modeling career. Jack then got into hospitality, focusing on excellence in service and efficiency in operations and management. After establishing himself with years of experience in the F&B industry, he sought to establish something different… something that would allow him to serve others in a greater way. With his wife, Allié, Awareness Ties and AwareNow Media were born.

The views and opinions expressed in AwareNow are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of AwareNow Media. Any content provided by our columnists or interviewees is of their opinion and not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, political group, organization, company, or individual. Stories shared are not intended to vilify anyone or anything. Their intent is to make you think.

Please note that you may find a spelling or punctuation error here or there, as our Editor-In-Chief has MS and loss vision in her right eye. That said, she still has perfect vision in her left and rocks it as best as she can.

Photo Credit: Maksim Goncharenok

INTERVIEW THE ART OF CONVERSATION

With every story I am told, there’s a truth I find and hold.

My memories are sketched in what others share, a common bond painted, not moments to compare.

A shared reality becomes a connection, a colorful point of our human intersection.

A sacred space etched outside of time, with regarded reason, regardless of rhyme.

In consonants and vowels, the words express what we’re scared to share but long to confess.

But confess we do, to ourselves held true.

And so we converse with no reason to rehearse.

Through conversation we heal with what’s raw, right and real.

A moment illustrated with me and you, in other words, an ‘interview’.

Written and Narrated by Allié McGuire https://awarenow.us/podcast/interview

SABRINA BEN SALMI

UN WOMEN UK DELEGATE, SPEAKER, MENTOR, AUTHOR & MOTHER

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SABRINA BEN SALMI

SUCCESS REDEFINED

NAVIGATING CAREER, MOTHERHOOD & ADVOCACY WITH GRACE

A remarkable woman who has shattered barriers and redefined the meaning of success in her multifaceted roles as a highly accomplished professional and passionate advocate, Sabrina Ben Salmi is a dedicated mother. From her personal triumphs over adversity to her unwavering commitment to empowering others, Sabrina’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and the unbreakable bond of family.

ALLIÉ: You, Sabrina, have achieved remarkable success in your career while also raising five very accomplished children. What has been the most challenging aspect of balancing your professional and personal life?

SABRINA: The most challenging aspect of balancing my professional and personal life has been finding time for selfcare. Managing a thriving career, advocating for important causes, and ensuring my children have the support they need to pursue their passions requires a delicate balance. It's easy to become overwhelmed, but I've learned to prioritse, delegate, and sometimes, simply say no. The key is to remain present in each moment, whether I'm in a business meeting or helping with homework. It was extremely challenging being a married lone parent, unfortunately

SABRINA BEN SALMI UN WOMEN UK DELEGATE, SPEAKER, MENTOR, AUTHOR & MOTHER

Amire, Paolo, Lashai, Yasmine & Tray-Sean Ben Salami w/Clarence Seedorf at the Global Black Impact Summit

“Single parenthood taught me the importance of resilience, resourcefulness, and community.”

SABRINA: (continued) and tell me that I wasn’t good enough and he would often say that I would never ful fill my dreams - this made my job as a mother so much harder as I was left to guide our children alone and for a period of time it caused me to lose faith in myself and my dreams. We were married for over 16 years and separated just over two years ago. Not having the loving and caring support of my husband made my work life balance incredibly challenging as I had to do it all alone, that’s financially, emotionally and physically too.

ALLIÉ: As a UN Women UK delegate and an advocate for diversity and inclusion, what personal experiences or insights have shaped your passion for these causes, and how do you hope to make a lasting impact in these areas?

SABRINA: My passion for diversity and inclusion stems from my own experiences with discrimination and the lack of representation in various spaces. Growing up, I often felt the absence of role models who looked like me or shared my experiences. This drove me to be the change I wanted to see. As a UN Women UK delegate, I aim to amplify underrepresented voices and work towards a society where everyone feels seen and valued. My goal is to create sustainable programs that empower marginalised communities and foster a culture of inclusivity.

ALLIÉ: Your book "Lone Parenthood – How To Create The Life That You Deserve" speaks to your experience with single parenthood. Can you share how this experience has in fluenced your approach to parenting and your drive to transform the narrative of parenting for over 1 million families?

SABRINA: Single parenthood taught me the importance of resilience, resourcefulness, and community. It reinforced that parenting is not just about providing for your children but also about modeling strength and independence. My experience inspired me to write "Lone Parenthood" to offer support and practical advice to other single parents. I want to transform the narrative around single parenthood by highlighting its strengths and fostering a supportive network where single parents can thrive and feel empowered.

ALLIÉ: Being dyslexic and winning the Best Dyslexic Owned Business 2021 Black Achievement Award is a signi ficant accomplishment. How has dyslexia impacted your life, both personally and professionally, and what message would you like to convey to others who may be facing similar challenges?

SABRINA: Dyslexia has been both a challenge and a gift. It forced me to develop unique problem-solving skills and creativity, which have been invaluable in my professional life. Winning the Best Dyslexic Owned Business Award was a moment of immense pride, demonstrating that dyslexia is not a barrier to success. My message to others facing similar challenges is to embrace their differences and leverage them as strengths. With determination and the right support, they can achieve their dreams and break down any barriers in their way. My dyslexic thinking has been the difference that has made the difference in my life and in the lives of the people whom i sere, I am blessed to be a blessing to nations.

ALLIÉ: Your children have achieved remarkable success at young ages, with their own brands, publishing houses, and signature programs. What key principles or values have you instilled in them that you believe have contributed to their success, and how can other parents learn from your approach to raising high-achieving children while maintaining a strong family bond?

REDEFINED

Exclusive Interview with Sabrina Ben Salmi https://awarenow.us/podcast/success-redefined

SABRINA: The key principles I've instilled in my children are resilience, and self belief. There’s no such thing as failure - only feedback, the power of networking, love, compassion, respect, kindness, mentorship, curiosity, and the value of hard work. I encourage them to pursue their passions and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. We prioritise open communication and mutual support, creating a strong family bond that nurtures their ambitions. Other parents can learn from this by fostering an environment where children feel safe to explore their interests and are encouraged to persevere despite obstacles. Balancing support with independence is crucial in raising con fident and high-achieving children. My five children have shaped me into the mother I am today. I am super passionate about sharing our family journey to inspire young people and their families what is possible despite encountering adversities. ∎

Meet Sabrina’s children…

Lashai Ben Salmi (24-years-old): TEDx Talk Speaker, UN Women Delegate UK 2023 and 2024, RSA Fellow, Cofounder of HallyuCon, and founder of The K-Way. She is an award-winning author of over 6 books and a guest speaker at the Global Black Impact Summit. Lashai is also a proud contributor at the United Nations SOTF Youth Consultation. For more information: www.lifeaccordingtolashai.com & www.hallyucon.co.uk

Tray-Sean Ben Salmi (19-years-old): TEDx Talk Speaker, Harrovian, and Amazon No.1 Best Selling Author of over 10 books. He is the founder of Teaching Teens How To Trade and In fluencer Publishing House. Tray-Sean has work experience at London Stock Exchange, Lazard, and Schroders, and is a proud contributor at the United Nations SOTF Youth Consultation. For more information: www.linktr.ee/Traysean

Yasmine Ben Salmi (16-years-old): International Keynote Speaker and award-winning author of over 8 books, and founder of The Choice Is Yours Publishing House. She has published a scienti fic article with her mentor, Detina Zalli, and is a proud contributor at the United Nations SOTF Youth Consultation. For more information: www.linktr.ee/YasmineBenSalmi

Paolo Ben Salmi (15-years-old) : International Keynote Speaker, award-winning author of 8 books, and founder of Adventurous Publishing House. He is a climate activist who has planted 10,000 trees in Tanzania and a moderator for 10x Kids. Paolo is a proud contributor at the United Nations SOTF Youth Consultation. For more information: www.linktr.ee/AuthorPaolobensalmi

Amire Ben Salmi (11-years-old): Guest speaker at the Global Black Impact Summit and the youngest honorary STEM Ambassador for Brunel University London. He is the founder of I AM Publishing House and an awardwinning author of over 9 books. Amire is a proud contributor at the United Nations SOTF Youth Consultation. For more information: www.linktr.ee/AmireBenSalmi

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AARON BAKER

QUADRIPLEGIC ATHLETE, AUTHOR, SPEAKER & FOUNDER OF ADVERSITY INTO ADVENTURE

Photo Credit: Cruz

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH AARON BAKER

ADVERSITY INTO ADVENTURE TRANSFORMING TRIALS INTO TRIUMPHS

Aaron is preparing for a journey that will take him across the country and around the globe, pushing boundaries and breaking barriers. His mission is to inspire others by sharing his incredible story of overcoming adversity and raising $25 million for the Adversity Into Adventure Foundation. Aaron Baker, a true embodiment of resilience and determination, is setting out not just to cover miles but to make a difference.

ALLIÉ: So, the Adversity Into Adventure World Tour starts in three days, on Monday, June 10th, 2024, at the Santa Monica Pier. Your journey across the country and around the world will begin. Let me start with this question: How are you feeling?

AARON: As I just said, it's a full spectrum of feelings. It's hard to stay in any one particular feeling. I tend to vacillate from one to the other quite dramatically and quite sporadically based on what I'm faced with. I'm putting out a lot of fires, checking a lot of boxes, trying to make sure that my checklists are checked off, that my wife and I stay in harmony in the process, and that we give our daughter a lot of good love and attention while doing so. There's a lot in

Photo Credit: Xander Mozejewski

AARON BAKER QUADRIPLEGIC ATHLETE, AUTHOR, SPEAKER & FOUNDER OF ADVERSITY INTO ADVENTURE

(Before we go further, let’s pause here for a personal introduction to this feature written by the CEO of Artists For Trauma, Laura Sharpe, who beautifully connected the dots, and led Aaron to AwareNow.)

“It is an honor and privilege to introduce Aaron Baker, a transcendent and extraordinary individual who has created an inspiring, practical, and mindful interactive platform for self-empowerment and community support for trauma survivors and those with spinal cord injuries. I have had the pleasure of knowing Aaron for over 10 years as a friend, fellow traveler, and community partner. He is a proactive leader for both Artists For Trauma and Wings For Life board of directors. Aaron’s leadership by example in both his personal, professional worlds and the global community have been a blessing to mankind.

You are about to be energetically, intellectually, and emotionally uplifted by Aaron’s testimony and the opportunity to engage with his empowering platform. His newly formed nonprofit, Adversity into Adventure, along with the launch of his global tour, stand as testaments to his resilience and vision. It is my pleasure to introduce you to Aaron Baker, founder of Adversity into Adventure and several entrepreneurial ventures. Despite the challenges of living as a recovering, now thriving, spinal cord injury quadriplegic, Aaron has mindfully navigated the harsh realities of his life. His physical limitations do not constrain his mind or his ability to continuously recover and create a rehabilitative future for himself and others. Ladies and gentlemen, Aaron Baker.”

ALLIÉ: For those who have not yet heard about Adversity Into Adventure and this world tour of yours, please bring them up to speed, Aaron. What is it? Why are you doing it?

AARON: The Adversity Into Adventure World Tour is essentially a mission we're really passionate about in motion. I am a recovering quadriplegic for the past 25 years. Over these last two and a half decades, I've accumulated a lot of knowledge and life experience. I have many resources, friends, and connections throughout a vast network. I want to empower other people with my life experience. I want to raise money for diverse-able people all around the world. I want to empower them through three ethos: neurological research, solving spinal cord injury, and empowering rehabilitation. The quality of life begins with good education, rehab, an active healthy lifestyle, and recreation, which is the reintegration of a passionate life back into the world. I want to live the words that I speak. As a profession, I'm hired to be a storyteller to speak about my history, but I'm compelled to be a ‘storydoer’. I find great purpose in being of service, being in motion, in action. That's where I feel I'm most valuable. When conceptualizing this whole project, I reverted to my basic values. Who do I want to be, and what do I want to do with my time here? Putting myself out on the road with my family is the example I want for my daughter. I want to go out and reach people where they are, not wait for them to reach me. That's the genesis of this entire endeavor: to go out into the world grassroots and be the example. I like this quote: "There are two ways of spreading light. You can either be the candle or the mirror that reflects it." I hope this little light lights a thousand.

QUADRIPLEGIC ATHLETE, AUTHOR, SPEAKER & FOUNDER OF ADVERSITY INTO ADVENTURE

Photo Credit: Chris Boulton

AARON BAKER

“In this process of survival, I’ve learned that the adventure of life is truly in the adversities we face and overcome.”

ALLIÉ: Such an incredible mission and vision that you have. Let's get into the brass tacks of things because this is a big deal. From selling your home to saying goodbye, you, your wife, and your daughter have been very busy preparing for this next chapter. My question for you now is: In all this preparation for the journey, Aaron, what did you find you were not prepared for?

AARON: Oh, I'm not prepared for a lot of things. These are the things that wake me up at 2 a.m. Our real legitimate concerns this time of year right now are triple-digit heat. Dangerous heat in parts of the country that I'll be in soon is a major factor. Putting myself out on the road with my condition, physically exerting myself, our living situation, although it's a nice tour bus, is still susceptible to weather more so than a house. The technical and logistical aspects of living on the road are many moving parts I have to get up to speed with quickly. Again, it's about systematizing life to the best of our abilities to become efficient in problem-solving. Managing myself, and my relationship with my wife and daughter, although I'm not prepared for a lot of things, I am psychologically prepared to meet those challenges with emotional intelligence and composure.

ALLIÉ: In the miles you cover on this tour, Aaron, you will see so many places and meet so many people. Of all there is to be excited about, what excites you the most?

AARON: That's a great question. When I close my eyes, I can see the rehab centers and hospitals we will ride and drive into. I get to get out of that bus or off that bike, embrace people, shake hands, sit down, and engage in conversation and connection. Those connections are special. What lights me up is when the other person is lit. You can see it in their eyes, in that energy exchange. It's powerful. That's one of the driving forces behind why we are doing this. I look forward to those moments. We have one coming next week at Casa Colina Hospital here in Southern California, just about 60 miles from the start point. I will be riding right onto the hospital campus. We'll meet and greet patients, their families, and the hospital staff. We'll have a great event. I look forward to that.

ALLIÉ: It's all the stories within your story that you'll be able to tell after this adventure. It's phenomenal. Speaking of this tour, you will be riding over 25,000 miles on an intercontinental route that you've mapped with the goal of raising $25 million for the Adversity Into Adventure Foundation. With a lot of miles to ride and funds to raise, challenges will come. Of these challenges, what is it at your core that makes you confident about the task ahead?

AARON: My history. I've faced and endured significant real-life adversity. That's why I feel confident to even call it the Adversity Into Adventure, because in this process of survival, I've learned that the adventure of life is truly in the

Photo Credit: Cruz

AARON: (continued) adversities we face and overcome. I know this will be fraught with challenges, but it's not unlike anything I've experienced before. I welcome it because I know what it will do for me personally and for my family. I know the example it sets for my daughter and what it means to others to see me living it and encouraging it in others. It's the adventure. Life is now…

ALLIÉ: You’re right. Life is right now, it's about making your mark in the world. You also have a speci fic trademark: ‘diverse-abled’. This term is central to your mission. It describes the world you want to create with your work. I'd love to hear, in your words, what diverse-able means to you in its fullest expression.

AARON: Diverse-abled is the essence of humanity. We are a diverse species of beautiful, loving beings. It symbolizes our similarities versus our differences. No matter how we navigate life, we have a common, united essence… a spirit, a love. If we focus on that, we can rise above turmoil and conflict. Embracing a more inclusive term, I think the old dividing language should fade away. We are diverse and should embrace that, recognizing that we're better together.

ALLIÉ: Well said. Better together. While you're out making your mark, you’ll be making connections. Let’s talk about our connection. You and I were first connected by a fellow traveler, dear friend, and CEO of Artists for Trauma, Laura Sharpe. You, Laura, and your mother LaQuita have done much to support fellow travelers on their journeys while healing from trauma. What do you personally hope to give and gain from the connections you make on this tour?

AARON: What I give first and foremost is my time and love. I've learned these are the two most important aspects of being alive. Sharing those is all we can do. I'm out there sitting with people facing adversity, just being with them. I give my time and empathize, understanding to the best of my ability, giving my love. I also want to create impact on a broader scale by empowering high-impact organizations through our three ethos and on an individual level. I want to stimulate and help people in some way. Money is an easy way to change a person's life. If I'm the steward of great resources, I'm compelled to pay that forward. The money we raise will go directly to this mission and these people. That's my give-back. I want to be a hybrid of Forrest Gump and Johnny Appleseed. I want to do it in a way that's not been done until now. And what I get in return is a full heart. I'm living my purpose, being the most useful I can be on this planet.

Resilience and tenacity are terms thrown around frivolously. I want them rooted in my effort.

AARON BAKER

QUADRIPLEGIC ATHLETE, AUTHOR, SPEAKER & FOUNDER OF ADVERSITY INTO ADVENTURE

Photo Credit: Xander Mozejewski

ADVERSITY INTO ADVENTURE

Exclusive Interview with Aaron Baker https://awarenow.us/podcast/adversity-into-adventure

“I’m

just the catalyst…”

ALLIÉ: There's nothing much better than that. Let's talk about a story. While some tell them, you're living, writing, and sharing yours in real-time. In a previous conversation, you said you're more than a storyteller, you're a story doer. With the story you are living and writing as we speak, what do you hope it will ultimately do?

AARON: It's cliché, but if I can impact a single life the way I've been impacted, then I'm doing my job. By living these words, there's a lot of talk these days, a lot of internet conversation. But I'm attracted to those souls that are gritty, embodying tenacity, optimism, hope, and a passion for creating. I want to echo my grandmother's fierce tenacity and my mother's passion. I want to show my daughter what she comes from. Those characteristics are needed in the world. Resilience and tenacity are terms thrown around frivolously. I want them rooted in my effort. I have a Harley Davidson and other ways I could easily ride or go be an example, but I want to push pedals, work hard, sweat, and show grit. That example will land more effectively and impactfully. That's what I hope to achieve by doing the story.

ALLIÉ: You give weight to words through your actions and intentions. I'm honored to be on this journey with you to share and elevate your story and the stories you collect along the way. We're with you, Aaron, as you travel along on your adventure with your column, writing this story you are living.

AARON: Thank you, Allié. With the platform you're providing with AwareNow Magazine and the community you've beautifully built, there are many stories we'll flesh out and share, reinforcing everything I've said today. So many beautiful people deserve a light shined their way, an opportunity for their voices and efforts to be seen and heard. I'm just the catalyst for so much in the world.

ALLIÉ: You're the catalyst… You’re the candle, and we are honored to be a mirror to reflect that. Thank you so much for sharing your story, your journey, and helping us all become a bit more aware now. Thank you so much.

AARON: I love it. Thank you. ∎

CRYSTAL FOX

JOSHUA’S MOTHER

‘BEYOND

STIGMA’ EXCLUSIVE COLUMN BY NATIONAL SHATTERING SILENCE COALITION

THROWN TO THE WOLVES JOSHUA FOX’S STORY

My son, Joshua, was a kind child who loved writing, art, rap music, and wolves. Joshua developed signs of schizophrenia at age fifteen, but the symptoms were intermingled with substance use, so he didn’t get appropriate psychiatric treatment.

At age eighteen, we tried to petition our son for involuntary treatment after he stabbed his leg with a knife, jumped out of a moving vehicle, ran into traffic, and started asking to purchase a gun. Joshua was a classic example of being a danger to himself and others, but he was repeatedly released from involuntary screening centers because of Arizona’s severe shortage of acute psychiatric hospital beds. Currently, Maricopa County is releasing hundreds of dangerous and disabled individuals every month without treatment.

During one attempt to get Joshua hospitalized, he was jailed for domestic violence instead. A psychiatrist diagnosed him with severe psychosis requiring medications, but the county jail didn’t follow up on the report. Tragically, Joshua never received treatment for his serious mental illness. A total of seven mental health agencies failed to recognize or treat Joshua’s schizophrenia. Joshua was released from jail with increased illness and trauma each time and without any psychiatric services.

My adult son was released into my 'custody’, with the expectation that I would get help for him. Like thousands of American mothers with mentally ill adult children, I was given complete responsibility, however, was not provided with any resources or authority to do so. At the very least, I should have been given emergency temporary guardianship with the mental health authority.

The day of Joshua’s release from jail, I took him to the hospital, and he was turned away because of the arbitrary admission criteria requiring that he answer “yes” when asked if suicidal. The next day I called the mobile crisis team who suggested I take Joshua to the hospital emergency room because he was insisting that he had syphilis. Though he tested negative as expected, the medical doctors recognized Joshua’s signi ficant mental illness symptoms and transferred him to the Banner Behavioral Hospital.

At the hospital, Joshua became combative, still convinced he had syphilis. Since they could only accept voluntary and cooperative patients, the hospital staff filed another petition for involuntary treatment. Unbeknownst to me, my son was transferred to another overcrowded psychiatric screening center. I received a call from Joshua the next day, from a Burger King in Avondale; he had been released to the streets without treatment.

Joshua frequently refused to eat, claiming his food was poisoned or contaminated with semen and feces. He often seemed emaciated or catatonic. He remained convinced he had syphilis, and thought his parents were trying to kill him by withholding treatment. To ease his mind, I finally took Joshua to a sexually-transmitted-disease clinic that would give him a penicillin shot, even though he didn’t need it. It didn’t help.

Like many individuals with schizophrenia, Joshua was too sick to recognize his illness or to voluntarily accept help. He was legally an adult. Multiple agencies refused to speak with John and I because we were not his legal guardians.

On June 4th, 2021, my 20-year-old son Joshua stabbed his father to death in his vehicle.

During a trip to the grocery store, Joshua’s hallucinations caused him to hear "clicking sounds like Morse code” coming from his dad’s car instructing him to kill his father. On June 4th, 2021, my 20-year-old son Joshua stabbed his father to death in his vehicle. He offered a bizarre explanation that his father had accused him of molesting children and had posted sexual content on the Internet.

“One day, he called me to say that he wished he hadn’t killed his dad. I explained that he didn’t kill his father, his untreated schizophrenia did.”

Joshua was chronically suicidal in jail. He starved himself, attempted hanging, and jumped off the second- floor balcony, injuring his ankle. The jail failed to address his suicidal behaviors and he jumped off the same balcony again. The second time he broke his vertebrae and both heels. While hospitalized for his injuries, Joshua explained that he jumped because “God” told him it would “bring the dead girl back to life”. Despite his extreme self-harming behavior, the county jail allowed Joshua to refuse medications. Instead of obtaining a court order for involuntary treatment, Joshua was placed in solitary confinement and allowed to deteriorate–to the point of near death–for an entire year. This was negligent and inhumane.

It wasn’t until Joshua was found incompetent to stand trial that he finally received court-ordered antipsychotic medications. He slowly regained his ability to eat, speak, and function. He began calling me every day. Joshua told me that he was taking medications and he wanted to hear updates on his siblings and pet dogs. He asked to be sent family photos. Sometimes in recovery, individuals with schizophrenia awaken to a reality that is dif ficult to accept. One day, he called me to say that he wished he hadn’t killed his dad. I explained that he didn’t kill his father, his untreated schizophrenia did. I let him know that he was forgiven, by God, his family, and by his dad in Heaven. Joshua understood.

John died trying to get his son to a hospital; he did not want his son in prison. Maricopa County prosecutors refused to consider any plea options for a psychiatric hospital. Joshua was restored to competency with the assistance of medication and accepted a plea agreement for manslaughter. He should have received psychiatric services in prison. Instead, Joshua was transferred into Arizona’s State Prison’s general population. Without appropriate supervision, Joshua hanged himself just thirty hours after his prison intake.

Joshua is finally at peace. The kind boy who loved his siblings, wolves, and rap music had his broken body and mind perfectly restored. On December 26th, 2023 at 4:22 P.M. Joshua was escorted by family, hospital staff, and prison guards along the Walk of Honor in which he donated multiple organs across the country for those in need, including his heart, kidneys, liver, and pancreas. ∎

Nonprofit Consultant, Entrepreneur & Philanthropist www.nationalshatteringsilencecoalition.org

We are the voices for those living with and dying far too young from serious brain disorders (SBD). Our nonpartisan alliance of family members, individuals suffering from SBDs, professionals in the trenches, and caring people, all united to ensure brain illness, health, and criminal justice systems count those with SBDs, and their families in all federal, state, and local policy reforms. It was our founder, Jeanne Gore, who casted the vision for achieving social, political, and healthcare changes for compassionate and equitable treatment for ourselves and our loved ones. We dedicate this site to her and the lasting effect of her gracious and generous life. We continue to raise awareness and progress with this monumental fight to ensure proper approach and treatment of those with SBDs. Become a member today and help us move the needle and shatter the silence.

EXITED FOUNDER, #1 BESTSELLING AUTHOR, SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR, BUSINESS, BRANDING & SPIRITUAL COACH

JESSICA ZWEIG

Photo Credit: Lindsey Smith

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH JESSICA ZWEIG

THE ALCHEMY OF SELF-DISCOVERY

THE PATH TO EMPOWERMENT THROUGH SPIRITUALITY & ENTREPRENEURIAL INSIGHT

Jessica Zweig is a remarkable entrepreneur, author, and spiritual guide. From overcoming body dysmorphia and low self-esteem to building and eventually selling SimplyBe., Jessica’s journey is a testament to resilience and authenticity. Her transformative experiences, including a life-changing trip to Egypt, have deeply influenced her approach to leadership and personal fulfillment. Here are excerpts from our conversation…

ALLIÉ: Well, let's just get right into it, shall we, Jessica? You have been through quite the journey with body image and self-esteem. If you would, please share what that journey has been like and if there was a speci fic moment that really changed things for you. Maybe something that made you go, "This is it, I need to take control." Can you take us on that journey?

JESSICA: Yeah, so I was born into a body that I like to say was short, curvy, and really liked carbs. I grew up in a community where thin was the ideal. You know, I grew up in the late 90s when Kate Moss was in, and I was never comfortable in my own skin for as long as I can remember. But it wasn't until I went to college for theater that I got a degree in acting and was a really good actress. I had talent. And like many girls who go to college, I gained the freshman 15, but it was really the sophomore 30 that stuck around until senior year. Nonetheless, I graduated with this classically trained acting degree and went into the industry. I got an agent and started auditioning.

I consider myself a spiritual being above all else.

EXITED FOUNDER, #1 BESTSELLING AUTHOR, SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR, BUSINESS, BRANDING & SPIRITUAL COACH

Photo Credit: Lindsey Smith

JESSICA ZWEIG

“My body was never something I cherished… I hated it.”

JESSICA: (continued) I got a coveted meeting at the age of 23 with one of the biggest commercial directors in Chicago, where the commercial world was it. I was so excited to start my career. This director looked at me, didn't even ask my name, just told me to stand up, turn around, and sit back down. He said, "If you want to be an actress, you're going to need to lose 30 pounds and get yourself down to a size zero if you ever want to be on camera." That one conversation sent me into a decade of obsessive orthorexia, compulsive dieting, and overworking out. I didn't get my period for two years in my 20s because I was so underweight. I was obsessed with every single diet: Atkins, Paleo, Mediterranean, Master Cleanse—you name it, I did it. It was the only track in my brain that I couldn't turn off for 10 years.

In my 30s, I contracted an autoimmune disorder from the chronic stress of being an entrepreneur. My body was never something I cherished… I hated it. It wasn't functioning the way I wanted it to. I was really sick, and that made me super depressed. To answer your question about when I realized I needed to change, there were a couple of moments. Western medicine didn't work for my autoimmune disorder. I connected with a healer in my late 30s who asked me to look at my diet, habits, stress levels, and sleep. She told me, "I'm not your healer; you are your own healer." She empowered me to listen to, trust, and honor my body. That changed my relationship with food, how I moved my body, and how I talked to my body. It’s a sacred technology.

I incorporated gentle workouts instead of intense ones, started eating intuitively, and learned to listen to what makes my body feel good. I cut out meat for 10 years but started eating it again after my body responded positively to it. I now see my body as a sacred temple, a home for my soul, and a vehicle between the divine and this earth plane. It’s been a journey, but it's taken a lot of deep soul work to heal my relationship with my body.

ALLIÉ: Thank you so much for sharing all that you have. And thank you speci fically for the concept of our bodies as sacred technology. You often talk about how your spiritual journey has in fluenced your professional life. How do you bring those spiritual practices into your everyday routine and work?

JESSICA: People see me as an entrepreneur and businesswoman, but I consider myself a spiritual being above all else. My spiritual practice is the core of my life. Every morning at my altar, I commune with my spirit team, my guides, and my angels. Whether it's 20 minutes, an hour, or five minutes, I don't skip that. It's important to set your intentions and ask for support because they won't come unless you invite them.

I also try to get into nature. I moved from Chicago to Nashville and devote myself to Gaia. Even if it's just sitting on my patio or going for a hike, nature is my harmonizer and healer. I'm very into the moon and stars, and I love building ceremony and ritual around these energies. Whether it's a big event like building a house or something small like posting on Instagram, I live my life by these principles.

ALLIÉ: I like the word "reciprocity." We often find ourselves in a self-serve society, but I love how you spoke about reciprocity with Gaia and nature.

JESSICA: It's everything. Our society is in pain and fear because we've disconnected from honoring Gaia, which causes disease on a macro and micro level. We've lost our way living in big cities and consuming information at unprecedented levels.

ALLIÉ: Reminders like the ones you offer help us reconnect. Let's redirect and talk a little business. Deciding to sell a brand you built, Simply Be, must have been a huge decision. What were some of the personal and business factors you had to consider, and how did you feel during that time?

EXITED FOUNDER, #1 BESTSELLING AUTHOR, SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR, BUSINESS, BRANDING & SPIRITUAL COACH

Photo Credit: Lindsey Smith

JESSICA ZWEIG

JESSICA: It was a complex experience. From a business perspective, to sell your business, it has to detach from you and become an asset that can run without you. I made strategic decisions in hiring, product positioning, and building operations so it could scale without me. Personally, you have to be mentally and emotionally ready to let go. In 2022, I went through burnout and depression, and realized I didn't want to do it anymore. After a trip to Egypt and hiring spiritual healers, I was ready to let go. I got a call in mid-2023 from a company wanting to buy me. The acquisition process was stressful, but now I'm grateful to be on the other side.

ALLIÉ: I understand the connection to your business. As a founder, it's like a child. Can you share how your trip to Egypt shifted your views on leadership and personal fulfillment?

JESSICA: I planned my trip to Egypt a year before I went, not knowing I would be burnt out when I arrived. Egypt wasn't a vacation; it was a spiritual pilgrimage. Each temple had frequencies that allowed for incredible experiences. In the Temple of Dendera, I was struck by white lightning, and I heard messages from the Pleiadians. They told me that I had missed the whole plot of the human experience, which was joy, to experience joy, to enjoy my life, to actually revel in the blissful experience it is to be in a human body on planet Earth. And that I had missed the memo by killing myself to succeed, to prove, to grip, to grind, to hustle as the successful leader, boss babe, agency owner, scaling a business that I had gone about it the wrong way. The second thing they had told me was that the feminine frequency is rising right now. There is a shift occurring on a planetary level of the feminine energies, and the goddess cultures, and the matriarchy, and the feminine frequency of how this planet was established is returning, and that I am, I'm a leader of that movement, but not just me, that all women are. And it was my job to be a messenger of this message. This inspired my new book and shifted how I lead—now from a softer, more aligned place. Joy is a choice and a daily devotion.

Photo Credit: Lindsey Smith

Photo Credit: Lindsey Smith

JESSICA ZWEIG

EXITED FOUNDER, #1 BESTSELLING AUTHOR, SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR, BUSINESS, BRANDING & SPIRITUAL COACH

Podcast THE ALCHEMY OF SELF-DISCOVERY

Exclusive Interview with Jessica Zweig https://awarenow.us/podcast/the-alchemy-of-self-discovery

“We’re not built to run at the pace the world demands.”

ALLIÉ: Thank you for sharing that powerful experience. Let's talk about "Light Work." What's the story behind it, and what can readers expect?

JESSICA: "Light Work" is a cosmic homecoming to the truth of who you are. It's a spiritual empowerment book for modern women who face darkness in their lives. It's not just about me; it's filled with codes, talks about the Pleiadians, Egyptian goddess medicine, Gaia, and the feminine frequency. It's a guidebook for lightworkers on how to live their identity and why it matters.

ALLIÉ: How do you keep yourself grounded and authentic with so much going on?

JESSICA: Good sleep is my foundation. I hydrate, eat a lot of protein, and take breaks to stand in the sun or move my body. I budget "lily pads" of time to unplug and recalibrate. We're not built to run at the pace the world demands. We have to be “boundaried". We have to be sovereign. We must be non negotiable in our negotiables.” ∎

Learn more about Jessica and her book ‘The Light Work’: www.jessicazweig.com Follow her on Instagram: @jessicazweig

TAP/SCAN TO LISTEN

PAUL S. ROGERS

Photo Credit: Luca Dross

‘RELEASE

THE GENIE’ EXCLUSIVE COLUMN BY PAUL S. ROGERS

THE UPSIDES GOING YOUR OWN WAY

Release The Genie Fact: The Genie Can Lead a Horse To Water and Make It Drink.

“The Road Less Traveled" is a concept often associated with making unconventional or unique choices in life, embracing paths that are less popular or less understood by others. It suggests taking risks, exploring new opportunities, and forging one's own way, rather than following the crowd or the more conventional route. This idea is famously captured in Robert Frost's poem "The Road Not Taken," where the speaker reflects on the impact of choosing a path less traveled and how it has made all the difference in their life.

My sister gave me a bracelet with a saying on it: “Your decision to walk creates the path.” It is the same for everything; the ancestor to an action is a thought. After this process, a direction emerges and then certain milestones pop up along the way to the eventual goal. This is all tied together in a neat parcel with a plan or roadmap. That’s the theory… But in practice, not all things are as neat and tidy as the initial process suggests.

Forging your own path is scary and messy. Sometimes, even if you want to take the path more commonly travelled, circumstances or unimaginable hardship dictate you have no other choice. You will face uncertainty and have to accept the strong possibilities of failure. However, it is precisely within this uncertainty and turmoil that the seeds of greatness are sown. The struggles encountered have rewards which you cannot buy or obtain from anywhere else: resilience, creativity, and a deeper understanding of your own capabilities. When every obstacle becomes a lesson, every failure a stepping stone, the road less traveled fills your life with a renewed passion.

Anyone who has or had a long term illness or recovery journey knows that there are things you have done which you have no idea how you were physically able to do. In those situations, I have learned that I am a natural planner. Unfortunately, it is not what will get me through. I had to become comfortable with not having a plan and wait to see how the chips will fall. As long as my minimum needs are covered, I can now leave the rest up to chance. And I can report; so far so good.

I am always fascinated with people’s backstories about how they arrived where they are and how we crossed paths. Without too much questioning, you will find that most of the paths taken where by mere chance encounters and opportunities. I am a firm believer that we cross each other's paths for a reason. Sometimes, that person is exactly the person you needed to meet at that time. Some travellers are with you for a short time. Others become so important in your quest that you wonder how you would ever have gotten so far without them.

We are all on a journey, in a singular direction. I saw a great quote the other day. “We are all in the same boat.” Incorrect, we are not all in the same boat. We are on the same ocean, on lots of different boats. Some are in really nice boats, whilst others are in beat up leaky boats which look like they are going to disintegrate at a moment’s notice. In truth, we need to experience all the different boats in our short trip this time around.

Podcast

THE UPSIDES OF GOING YOUR OWN WAY

Written and Narrated by Paul Rogers https://awarenow.us/podcast/the-upsides

“We need life’s abrasion to put us on the path we were always destined to be on.”

How else are we to discover those hidden treasures of dreaming up innovative solutions and enjoying the fire and energy of unexpected collaborations? Without conflict or hardship, we have no story to tell. We need life’s abrasion to put us on the path we were always destined to be on. Ok, quick question and be honest! Ask yourself “Am I doing, now, what I thought I would be doing when I had to choose what I wanted to be when I grew up?” So, are you? Very few of us are.

By broadening your horizons and deepening your empathy, you enrich not just your own life but the lives of all the other travellers who have the fortune to cross your path. Your journey can encourage others to pursue their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem. Let’s just all agree to use the word normal only as a setting on electrical appliances rather than about our own existences. ∎

PAUL S. ROGERS

Transformation Expert, Awareness Hellraiser & Public Speaker www.awarenessties.us/paul-rogers

PAUL S. ROGERS is a keynote public speaking coach, transformation expert, awareness hellraiser, life coach, Trauma TBI, CPTSD mentor, train crash and cancer survivor, public speaking coach, Podcast host “Release the Genie” & best-selling author. His journey has taken him from corporate leader to kitesurfer to teacher on a first nations reserve to today. Paul’s goal is to inspire others to find their true purpose and passion.

Photo Credit: Luke Freeman

STORY BY CELIA CHARTRES-ARIS

I CAN’T EAT OR DRINK LIFE WITH PARALYSIS

Celia Chartres-Aris is a multi-award winning Disabled Government special advisor, campaigner and lobbyist, researcher, policy and legal expert, founder and investor advocating for the improvement of Disability equity and accessibility inclusivity. Celia has a rare terminal genetic condition (Loeys-Dietz Syndrome), and lives with multiple organ failure. Passionate about policy/representation, Celia is involved with organisations and campaigns aimed at increasing the elected representation of Disabled people. With a background in Human Rights law, Celia campaigns for the protection and implementation of Disability rights.

Life with paralysis - I can't eat or drink.

Of course people don’t invite me to social events.

I can’t eat or drink.

Of course I’m hungry and thirsty all of the blooming time.

I can’t eat or drink.

Of course I think about sausage sandwiches and tea all the time.

I can’t eat or drink.

Of course I play what I would pick if I could, when I’m at a restaurant or cafe.

I can’t eat or drink.

Of course I’m gonna stare at your plate of food until you’ve finished it.

I cant eat or drink.

Of course I love baking and cooking.

I cant eat or drink.

Of course people ask me inappropriate toilet questions.

I cant eat or drink.

Of course I’ve been kicked out of restaurants and bars for not buying.

I cant eat or drink.

Of course I blooming miss food!

I cant eat or drink.

Of course people think I’m 'weird'.

(Please enjoy this picture of me staring at my own wedding cake which I couldn’t eat, but de finitely had a good sniff of, apparently it was delicious. And yes, before you ask, very weird to not eat your own wedding food!)

PERSONAL

NICK SEABASTY FOUNDER & OWNER OF DEAD BREAD

Photo Courtesy: Nick Seabasty

DEAD BREAD

A MAN AND A BRAND SUPPORTING CULTURE & COMMUNITY

Nick Seabasty, founder of Dead Bread, has seamlessly woven together his passions for BMX, skateboarding, art, and fashion to create a brand that is more than just a label— it's a family. Dedicated to giving back to the cultures that shaped him, Nick’s journey is one of authenticity, community, and unwavering commitment. In this interview, we explore the inspirations, challenges, and future vision of a true trailblazer transforming sport, art, and fashion into a force for good.

ALLIÉ: Well, let's begin this way. BMX, skateboarding, art, and fashion are at the core of Dead Bread. Can you share a specific moment or experience from your journey in these cultures that signi ficantly influenced the creation of your most fabulous brand?

NICK: Not necessarily... It's like I've always been involved in art. I go back to my middle school paperwork and stuff like that. And it's like everything's just covered in artwork. And I rode BMX that entire time since I was like 11 years old, EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH NICK SEABASTY

NICK SEABASTY FOUNDER & OWNER OF DEAD BREAD

Photo Credit: Dylan Springsdorf

“I look at t-shirts as canvases.”

NICK: (continued) things and loving artwork, it just kind of all worked together. And then being involved in the BMX and skate industries over the years, I've picked up a lot of things, learned a lot of things, and then just kind of got really honed in on the clothing side of things and loved doing that stuff. I look at t-shirts as canvases… and I'm obsessed with the quality of clothing too. So yeah, working on all that stuff was big to me.

ALLIÉ: Well, I believe you on the quality front of things because my boys, as much as they wear their Dead Bread shirts, they are fabulous quality. So yeah, it works out very well. Let's pause a moment before we get deeper into your story and talk about the name ‘Dead Bread’. Please explain.

NICK: So, it's kind of like there's a thing between my friends and me, like, um, there was a song, "Miracle," actually, that we'd always say as a joke to each other, and it always stuck in our heads—just like the words 'dead bread.' So, at one point, this girl I knew worked for Vine, the platform that worked with influencers on Vine. She was trying to leave working for them and start doing what she was doing on her own, but she couldn't use any of the people she worked with in her portfolio. So, with me doing what I was doing in BMX, she wanted to work with me. She was like, "Oh, well, you know, I would want you to have some type of merchandising thing behind you, like a mix of acting and clothing line type thing." And I was like, "Yeah, I don't like that idea at all." But I've worked with clothing throughout BMX and skateboarding, and it's always something that's interested me. I'd love to do that, but I just wanted it to be a different name. Since 'Dead Bread' was always stuck in our heads, I was like, "Well, Dead Bread makes sense. It rolls off the tongue." Then I came up with the logo, drew it up, and it just kind of all stuck.

ALLIÉ: And I like that it rhymes—'dead bread was in your head.' So that's like your origin story. And I think that's fantastic. You describe Dead Bread as more than just a brand, calling it a family. So, my question for you here is how do you foster this sense of family within your team and with your supporters? Can you share a story that exempli fies that connection?

NICK: Yeah, yeah. So the brand started in 2016, and everyone that was involved with it then has always been super close friends that I grew up with or met along the way. I tried to just incorporate people that I know that have similar interests and do similar things, like my friend Smallfry back in New Jersey. He would do a lot of video editing and stuff like that. My friend Trent here was helping out with a lot of that stuff too, video-wise. So yeah, it was just like, I don't know, we were all more like family to each other than just me saying, "Hey, I want to pay you to make a video or something for this brand." And then, when I opened up the storefront here, I wanted to continue having that feeling to it. That's why I have the couch and TV so people can come in, hang out, and just talk, watch videos. Even the Owosso skate crew that hangs out here all the time, they've kind of become like a family. Dylan, one of the guys, even watches the store when I'm out of town. You know, we've just kind of kept that whole tight-knit thing going with it this entire time.

ALLIÉ: I love how organic it is. It's not that you're trying to force one thing or another; you're just allowing things to evolve as they do.

NICK: Yeah, that's the thing. People ask me a lot about business in general, but speci fically about clothing brands. They ask me, "Should I do it? How do you do it?" I just tell them, you better love it. It better be something you love doing first off because any business is hard. You've got a lot to give up if you don't love doing it. But then, it's just like you said, not forcing it and letting things happen organically. I feel like if you love it, it just can happen that way.

ALLIÉ: Let's talk about culture. Giving back to the cultures that have shaped you is a big part of Dead Bread's mission. Can you tell us about a project or initiative where Dead Bread made a signi ficant impact on these communities?

Photo Courtesy: Nick Seabasty

Photo Courtesy: Nick Seabasty

NICK: Like I said, even just having the couch here with the TV and video games, kids being able to just come in and hang out. There are kids and teenage kids that just come in and ask, "Is it okay for me to just sit and watch videos?" I'm like, "Yeah, that's what it's there for, man. Go ahead and sit down." But down from that to us holding events ourselves at the skate parks or out in the streets of Detroit, we've done them in Phoenix, out in New Jersey. We try to host our own events and sponsor other events. Even here at the store, we've done photo shows for photographers and artists. It's just anything that is incorporated with it. Like I said, I have a lot of friends who have talents, and I just try to incorporate them with it too.

ALLIÉ: And I love how you're saying even just there at your space in your store, to have a screen, to have a space, to have that couch… just creating space for people to be present, to be engaged, and not so disconnected but to be pulled together with common interests.

NICK: There's even three or four different groups of skaters in town here that all skate. They all do the same thing but don't skate together very often. There's a group of four kids here, a group of four kids there, and another group of three kids. And then they all kind of run into each other here. They end up hanging out down here, and then they'll go and skate together out in the streets. It was kind of funny seeing how it all works.

ALLIÉ: Absolutely. So, combining BMX, importing art and fashion into this cohesive brand, I imagine it must have come with its own set of challenges in some way. What has been the most surprising lesson that you have learned in this journey, and how has it inspired you to keep pushing forward?

NICK: I don't know, it's kind of crazy… I just tried to make it happen organically, and in the beginning, it was kind of like a hobby to me. I loved doing it. Even after that whole thing with that girl who wanted me to do all that stuff, that whole thing just went away. She decided she wasn't going to do that, and then I didn't really do anything with Dead Bread. I had the name and the logo sitting around for like a year and a half, and then when I had my daughter and moved to Michigan, since the logos were sitting around and everything, I was like, "You know what, I'm just going to do something with this." I saved a hundred dollars in single dollar bills. I would just put a dollar bill in my pocket aside, and that's what I ran the first batch of hats with. And then that stemmed into those hats selling, me ordering some tshirts, and then the beanies. I just kept snowballing it a little bit, but it was more of a hobby, so I didn't fully focus on it too hard. It was run out of my apartment, of course, and it was just one of those things when I had spare money to do it. When I had some things to work with, I was like, "You know what, I'm just going to make some shirts and stuff." In 2020, I looked at opening the storefront, and then COVID hit, so I backed off. Then in 2022, when this was becoming the idea, I was like, "You know what, it's time to just make it happen and try it out and see what happens." Opening the storefront was the biggest hurdle because it was a whole new thing. It wasn't just me running out of my apartment and being able to make stuff when I wanted to make stuff. It was like, "Oh, the store has to be stocked non-stop and have new things coming up all the time, and I have to be here all the time." So, it was just a whole new animal that was a big hurdle to figure out and get through. Coming up on 10 years here now, I've kind of gotten past a lot of those big hurdles, but it's still tough at times, but I can't explain what you mean.

Exclusive Interview with Nick Seabasty https://awarenow.us/podcast/dead-bread

ALLIÉ: Well, back to your point that if you're going to do this, you better love it. You better love it, exactly.

NICK: I left my day job last year, and this is now my full-time thing. There are times where if I didn't love it and I didn't grow up in the environment that I grew up in, living off of pretty much nothing, most people would believe this isn't worth it. But I just grew up in an environment where I was kind of used to that anyway. Since I love it so much, it's just like, "Oh, I'm making it work.”

ALLIÉ: Yeah, just keep on keeping on. So, looking ahead, this will be my last question for you today. Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for Dead Bread? How do you envision the brand evolving, and what new ways do you hope to give back to these cultures and communities that are so much a part of Dead Bread?

NICK: It’s funny because, you know, when it comes down to certain business-related things, they always ask, "What's your five-year plan?" and stuff like that. And it's like, I don't know. My five-year plan is to continue doing what I'm doing, just let it keep building itself up and growing as it has. I really don't ask much out of it besides that. With it growing, I just want to be able to keep doing more as I have been doing, but obviously more—holding the events, doing the scavenger hunt things around town, expanding on all that stuff. Just doing what we do here at the store on a daily basis. So, it's not really like, "Oh, I want to hit X amount of dollars by next year, or I want to do this or that." It's just like, I just want to see it keep growing and getting better, not really on a scheduled timeline by any means, but just do it organically how I've been doing it. It seems to be working, so I'm just going to keep doing it.

ALLIÉ: I love not forcing yourself to focus on an endpoint but rather to focus on this point in time. Right?

NICK: You've got to make sure things do run smoothly now and focus on how to continue to make the story better and keep building up. I have to be by this point by this next year, maintain, and keep going.

ALLIÉ: And that should be the lesson, right, to all founders and entrepreneurs out there. It's like that with our kids, right? We don't expect them to know what they want to do or what they want to be when they grow up. We give them that grace to figure it out as they go. And again, giving ourselves that grace, right, to be able to say, "I'm not sure where we're going to go, but we know the direction.”

NICK: Yeah, that's it. You just know which way you want to go and work on that and hope for the best. ∎

Photo Credit: Jack McGuire

ORIGINAL POETRY BY

JACK MCGUIRE

THE SURVIVOR PATH

Sadness is heard in your silence. We talk about pain. We speak to our souls of never being the same.

We drink numb in.

It’s never a win.

Where do the words go

That we never say

Or speak too low?

Peace is a part of me.

Peace is my everything.

Peace is rarely seen.

Survival was my road,

Softer now while the road grows long.

To hold you is to hold my tongue .

Maybe I’m not sure how to have fun.

It’s been a long long road, Longer than I talk about.

It’s a road that’s dried my tears

Questions my everything, Puts me at arms length

Even when that is furthest from what I want or need.

ANGELA BERNARD DIRECTOR OF BERNARD GROUP, TRACK COACH AND MARATHON RUNNER

PERSONAL STORY BY ALLIÉ MCGUIRE

BECAUSE I CAN WE

RUN FOR EACH OTHER, FOR OURSELVES, AND FOR MS

And sometimes you do what you do, simply because you can. You do what you can. You give what you can, and your run… simply because you can and you will in service to the cause you support and the people you love.

ALLIÉ MCGUIRE CO-FOUNDER OF AWARENOW MEDIA

“I run for you.”

I asked Angie a question in return, "What made you decide to do this?" She replied, "Because I can." She went on to share that on the hard days she runs simply because she can, knowing that there are others who can't. "On the days when I don't want to run, I run... because of you. I run for you. I run for others who can't. I run because I can."

And while I can't run a marathon, I can run something... that something will be the Rothman Orthopaedics 8K (4.97 miles) in Philadelphia, the day before Angie's race. Inspired by Angie's will to run for me, I will run too. While my vision and balance aren't what they once were, I'll run… or walk. I’ll do it because I can. ∎

So, we've started this fundraiser to raise awareness and funds for MS. This is what we're running for. The money we raise through this fundraiser will help fund MS research, programs and services so that people affected by MS can live their best lives. We've set an ambitious goal because we know that with support from people like you, we can get there.

If you can, join us in ending MS forever and donate today: awarenow.us/donation/because-i-can

Sincerely, Allié

Photo Credit: Adil

The public is a victim of the memory hole.

DR. TODD BROWN FOUNDER OF THE INSPIRE PROJECT & CO-FOUNDER OF OPERATION OUTBREAK

Photo Credit: Jair Hernandez

‘THE INSPIRE PROJECT’ EXCLUSIVE COLUMN BY DR. TODD BROWN

AMERICA’S POLITICAL AMNESIA

THE CIRCUS OF AMERICAN POLITICS

Sometimes, I think we are living in the dystopian novel 1984 (we probably shouldn’t ban this one). For those who have yet to read the book or remember, which is apropos of the situation, Winston Smith, the protagonist, works for the totalitarian Ministry of Truth. His job is to produce lies by rewriting history to align with the current regime. Once history is changed, he drops contradictory materials into “the memory hole,” a small opening near every desk that leads to a furnace, where the inconvenient past is quickly incinerated. For some reason, the voting public is outraged when a politician is caught up in some scandal or is the wellspring of misdeeds. Why? This isn’t new. The public is a victim of the memory hole. The Turkish proverb states it best, “When a Clown moves into a Palace, he doesn't become a King. The Palace instead becomes a Circus.” And looking at our politicians throughout history, the Turkish aren’t wrong. We, the people, keep electing the clowns, and the U.S. is not becoming a circus, it is becoming a larger one.

In American politics, figure after figure has emerged not as ideal public servants but as masters exploiting the system for personal gain. Their stage is less a respected chamber of democracy and more an opportunistic clown show, where loopholes and backdoor dealings are the tools of the trade. While figures like Donald Trump, Lauren Boebert, Matt Gaetz, and Bob Menendez epitomize this phenomenon, each is embroiled in controversies highlighting the blurred lines between public duty and personal enrichment; they are not alone. History has shown that these people are not one-offs but just individuals who add their names to the exhausting lists of politicians WE, as the people have voted to elect.

Donald Trump's presidency was marked by a fusion of personal business interests and public of fice. But he is not an anomaly. He is part of a larger pattern. Just look at Warren G. Harding and the Teapot Dome Scandal (national security, big oil companies, and bribery and corruption) or Grover Cleveland’s Halpin Scandal (rape resulting in a ‘love child’ followed by throwing the mother into an asylum and placing the boy in an orphanage), or Woodrow Wilson segregating all federal employees by race. Let’s not forget Nixon and Watergate or Reagan and the Iran-Contra Affair. But wait, there’s more: Warren G. Harding’s open extra-marital affairs and illegally serving alcohol at parties in the White House during prohibition, Clinton and Monica Lewinsky, the list goes on and on.

Below the Presidency Representatives, Lauren Boebert and Matt Gaetz have also made headlines for their controversial actions and affiliations. Boebert, known for her vocal support of gun rights and Trumpist policies, has come under scrutiny for her campaign finances and the operations of her restaurant, Shooters Grill. Allegations of campaign fund misuse and conflicts of interest have raised doubts about her commitment to ethical governance. Let’s not mention her giving new meaning to the ‘juice’ part of Beetlejuice.

DR. TODD BROWN FOUNDER OF THE INSPIRE PROJECT & CO-FOUNDER OF OPERATION OUTBREAK

Photo Credit: Lauren Calin

“After all, the people elect these politicians and often maintain significant support despite their misdeeds.”

Matt Gaetz's story is even more grimy. Under investigation for alleged involvement in a sex trafficking ring and accused of corruption, Gaetz has maintained his innocence while attacking the credibility of his accusers. His arrogant style and steadfast loyalty to Trump have kept him in the political limelight, but the allegations have cast a long shadow over his career.

But again, we see a pattern here. Senator Daniel Webster fathered two illegitimate “mulatto” children during his stint. William C. P. Breckinridge had multiple illegitimate children he did not care for. Wayne Hays’ (House of Representatives) former assistant, Elizabeth Ray, confessed that she was paid the government worker rate (in this case pronounced ‘work her’) to have sex with Ray and his friends or Senator Robert Packwood and his 26 accusers of sexual assault leading to his stepping down. These are just a few examples of our House and Senator history.

Allegations of corruption have repeatedly marred Senator Bob Menendez's career. In 2015, he was indicted on federal corruption charges related to his relationship with a wealthy donor. He was accused of accepting gifts and campaign contributions in exchange for political favors. I mean, who doesn’t have $500,000 cash in boots, sewn into their jacket, and in the refrigerator? Not to mention the gold bars, but that’s another story. Well, at least he wasn’t like the former mayor of Washington, D.C., who was arrested for drug offenses. I think that’s worse, maybe?

The brutal murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018 cast a light on international political intrigue and the lengths to which some governments will go to silence dissent. Khashoggi, a critic of the Saudi regime, was reportedly investigating the kingdom's ties to various illicit activities when he was killed in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul. What was he investigating and writing about before he was literally chopped into pieces? He was writing about Jared Kushner (Trump’s son-in-law) allegedly turning over classi fied information to the MBS (the crown prince of Saudi Arabia), who used that to hunt down, arrest, and murder his opponents in Saudi Arabia in exchange for the mystery $2 billion Kushner received.

Let’s not forget the story of Edwin Edwards, the former Governor of Louisiana. He absolutely epitomizes the audacity of some politicians. Edwards was convicted of racketeering, extortion, money laundering, mail fraud, and wire fraud and served eight years in federal prison. Yet, even from his prison cell, he retained a strong following. Following his release in 2011, Edwards ran for Congress and nearly won, receiving almost 40% of the vote. His slogan, you may ask? "Vote For the Crook: It's Important." It kind of sums it up.

AwareNow Podcast

AMERICA’S POLITICAL AMNESIA

Written and Narrated by Dr. Todd Brown

https://awarenow.us/podcast/americas-political-amnesia

And now we have Rod Blagojevich, the former governor of Illinois, who was famously caught on tape attempting to sell Barack Obama's vacant Senate seat. His corruption led to his impeachment, removal from of fice, and a 14-year prison sentence. Despite this, Blagojevich maintained a degree of public sympathy and was ultimately pardoned by Trump in 2020. His case highlights the often transactional nature of political power and the belief among some politicians that positions of influence can be bought and sold.

Viewing these stories as unusual is tempting, but they also reflect broader societal issues. After all, the people elect these politicians and often maintain significant support despite their misdeeds. Their ability to navigate legal troubles and retain influence suggests a deeper issue within the political system and electorate.

The phenomenon of political figures enriching themselves through shady means is not just a failure of individual morality but a systemic problem. It points to greater transparency, accountability, campaign finance, and lobbying reform. If the incentives for self-enrichment remain, the opportunistic clown show will continue, with new characters stepping into the spotlight.

The stories of Wilson, Harding, Nixon, Reagan, Trump, Webster, Breckinridge, Boebert, Gaetz, Menendez, Khashoggi, Edwards, and Blagojevich illustrate a disturbing trend in American politics. These figures, among others, demonstrate how the pursuit of personal gain can overshadow public service. They also re flect a political system's contradictions that allow such behavior to persist. While it is easy to blame these individuals, we must re flect on Abraham Lincoln's words, “Government of the people, by the people, for the people.” These individuals are us, voted in by us, and work for us. If we don't hold ourselves accountable, we might rebrand our democracy as the Greatest Show on Earth, where the clowns run the circus, and the audience foots the bill. ∎

DR. TODD BROWN

Awareness Ties Columnist

www.awarenessties.us/todd-brown

Brown is a winner of multiple education awards, including the U.S. Congressional Teacher of the Year Award, U.S. Henry Ford Innovator Award, Education Foundation Innovator of the Year, and Air Force Association STEM Teacher of the Year. Dr. Brown is the creator and founder of the Inspire Project and cocreator of Operation Outbreak, which was named the Reimagine Education Award for Best Hybrid Program in the world. He is also an Education Ambassador for the United Nations and an Educational Ambassador of the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

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It’s been lonely not being him.

BURT KEMPNER

WRITER & PRODUCER

PRAISE OF CHILDISH THINGS

“When I became a man, I put away childish things.” - 1 Corinthians

Why do so many of us abandon our playfulness as we grow older? Do the cares of the world grind us down? Is it the burden of responsibility and responsibility's frequent best friend: worry? Imagine taking the best aspects of our earlier years -- curiosity, daring, receptivity to the new -- and reintegrating them without the youthful baggage of impetuousness, self-centeredness and impatience. (Yes, sometimes my inner child could be an absolute brat.)

So how would this re-invigorated person act, think, feel, work, worship or, last but nowhere near least, play? I want to be that person. It’s been lonely not being him, I've been realizing how many good things from my youth I've let slip away and I'm trying to give them a loving welcome back. I may return to Never Never Land yet, even if I have to back in rather than fly over. ∎

Podcast IN

PRAISE OF CHILDISH THINGS

Written and Narrated by Burt Kempner https://awarenow.us/podcast/in-praise-of-childish-things

BURT KEMPNER Writer & Producer www.awarenessties.us/burt-kempner

BURT KEMPNER is a writer-producer who has worked professionally in New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Florida. His work has won numerous major awards, and has been seen by groups ranging in size from a national television audience in the United States to a half-dozen Maori chieftains in New Zealand. Spurred by his love for inspiring young people, he started writing children's books in 2015. Learn more about Burt and his books at his website: www.burtkempner.com.

ERIN MACAULEY INTERNATIONAL DIRECTOR OF ADVOCACY FOR #SAMEHERE GLOBAL

FEATURE

STORY BY ERIN MACAULEY

GETTING MY LIFE BACK BREAKING

FREE OF OPIOID DEPENDENCY

I am someone who doesn’t do things by halves. I go all in, and that includes when it comes to medication. I take medication for my myriad of mental health issues, but up until recently I was taking medication for my disabling neck pain. A LOT of medication as I would come to find out.

I have degenerative disc disease and annular tears in my cervical spine. This leaves me with debilitating pain constantly. I see a neurosurgeon who has said I’m too young to operate on, so I have pain management procedures with him. While these may work for a little while, they always wear off and the pain seeps back in.

For this pain, I was prescribed a very high dose of opioid pain killers called Palexia. I was taking this high dose for months, not thinking anything of it. My neck pain was good which meant the medication was working and that’s all I cared about. I didn’t even register that I was on strong opioids and the problems that would come along with that.

Last week I decided enough was enough and I wanted to get off these tablets. What I failed to realise though is that you need to taper the dose down and can’t stop opioid pain management cold turkey. I was fine for a couple of days but one night things went horribly wrong.

I was laying in bed having just taken my night medications which make me drowsy, when I got really hot inside and light headed. My heart rate was skyrocketing at 150 beats per minute. I honestly felt like I was going to die. I sat up, took some anti anxiety medication and a painkiller as I thought this had something to do with it, and told my Dad we had to go to the hospital.

I presented to emergency where they admitted me straight away. I was hooked up to an ECG machine and had a cannula inserted. The results from the ECG were that I had sinus tachycardia, or put simply a very high heart rate.

◦ The doctor took a blood sample and urine sample and I was asked a myriad of questions. It was so hard for me to answer as I was fighting off the effects of my night medications so I was super drowsy and unable to string a sentence together. We then got onto the topic of pain management and I told him the dose of palexia I had been taking for a few months now. He reeled back in shock.

I advised him that I had stopped taking this drug four days before as I didn’t want to be on opioids anymore. He said it was the wrong thing to do and that I had to taper the dose down and not just stop them cold turkey.

My heart rate returned to normal rather quickly and I was discharged from hospital with the order to follow up with my doctor the following day.

When I told my doctor what had happened he said he wasn’t sure whether it was withdrawals or the fact I had recently had Covid. I knew it was withdrawals because the night before my heart rate dropped after taking one of the painkillers. He put me on a low dose of Oxycodone with Naloxone in it and advised me to take it for five days. We had a follow up call the day after I started this medication and he asked how I was going and how my pain was and I let him know everything was good.

AwareNow Podcast

GETTING MY LIFE BACK

Written and Narrated by Erin

Macauley

https://awarenow.us/podcast/getting-my-life-back

I am now on a dose of 2.5mg of Oxycodone with Naloxone and will probably be on it for another five days. For anyone wondering, Naloxone is what is given to people who are overdosing on opioids to save their life. It kicks the opioid off the receptors in the brain.

My pain intensified yesterday so rather than take a Panadol, I bought some pain strips from the Asian supermarket which are truly the best thing in the world. You stick a patch on to the affected area and it’s like analgesia.

This turn of events has caused me to look at the medications I’m ingesting and pain in a totally different light. There is an opioid crisis in the States and I was very nearly also a statistic. People need to be more informed before taking this medication as it wreaks havoc on your body. I never abused my medication but the dose was so high it caused a severe reaction coming off them. I honestly thought I was going to die and that’s a very scary place to be at,

To anyone suffering chronic pain, I urge you to ask questions about your medications. Find alternative treatments like pain patches or acupuncture. Get a second opinion. But please don’t overuse opioids. It simply isn’t worth it and you can and will overcome what you are going through. If you are prescribed them take the required dose but if it seems too high please talk to your doctor.

Now that I am at the tail end of tapering off these horrible medications, I am so grateful to have my life back. I feel brighter, have more energy and am back to feeling like myself again. I didn’t realise how much of myself and life I had missed out on while being high on opioids. They may numb the pain but they are also incredibly dangerous.

The opioid crisis in America should be a wake up call to all countries to get on top of these medications and make them harder to prescribe and purchase. Seek out alternatives before taking them and if you need to, please taper off your dose if it is a high dose you’re on. I’m lucky to be here and I want everyone to have the same chance I did. ∎

ERIN MACAULEY

International Director of Advocacy for #SameHere Global www.awarenessties.us/erin-macauley

ERIN MACAULEY is passionate about all things mental health and is a compassionate voice for those who are struggling with mental illness. Driven to help those most in need, through her vulnerable and open blogging about her own personal struggles, she lifts up others up and gives them hope.

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‘MS-ABILITIES’ EXCLUSIVE COLUMN BY FOX

RIGNEY

THE SPOON THEORY ONE STRIDE, ONE SPOON, TWO STRIDES, TWO SPOONS

Stride one, stride two, stride three, toe stub, legs wobble, arms spin, feet planted, and recovered. Time to catch up. Stride one, stride two, stride three, legs of molasses, gravity winning against my upright poster, maximum effort to raise my knees, and I stop.

Watching first-time runners outpace me was unbelievable. Stride for stride, matching their jog was beyond my capability. Why!? The running skills I developed over a decade should easily match pace with new runners.

That was the first day my spoons were notably depleted in the moment. I hadn’t yet been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis or exposed to spoon theory. Months later, while reading a magazine article, much like this one, I was introduced to Spoon Theory. That article taught me more than a concept, but a shared language and terminology commonly used between groups struggling with a consistent de ficit of energy, like me. This article aims to inform those unaware of “Spoon Theory” about its concept and origin.

What are Spoons?

Spoons are a metaphor describing the finite energy we have to navigate our day. Each morning, we wake up with a certain number of spoons, and every activity, no matter how small, depletes our spoons. Activities could include:

Physical tasks: showering, dressing, exercising

Mental tasks: making decisions, concentrating, studying

Emotional tasks: having difficult conversations, dealing with stress or anxiety

Why Spoons?

The term “spoon theory” was coined by Christine Miserandino, who lives with lupus. In a conversation with her friend, she used spoons on a table to illustrate how her chronic illness affected her energy levels. This simple, tangible analogy resonates with many people facing similar challenges.

Chronic illnesses, disabilities, and mental health conditions can signi ficantly reduce the number of spoons we have. It’s like starting the day with a smaller set of silverware than someone living without a chronic illness. Furthermore, tasks that might cost those absent of a chronic illness one spoon could cost someone with a chronic illness many spoons.

When We Say, “I’m Out of Spoons…”

This phrase signifies we have reached our limit. We have used up our available energy for the moment or day and can no longer function at our usual capacity. It’s a way to communicate our needs and boundaries without explaining the complexities of our condition.

AwareNow Podcast

Written and Narrated by Fox Rigney https://awarenow.us/podcast/the-spoon-theory

Spoon Theory as a Tool for Understanding

Spoon theory is a powerful tool for fostering empathy and understanding. It provides a simple, yet effective way to explain the impact of invisible illnesses and disabilities. It can also help those of us with chronic conditions communicate our needs and set boundaries with friends, family, and coworkers. Please remember:

Everyone has a different number of spoons. Some days we have more spoons than others. It’s okay to say “no” when we’re out of spoons. Respecting our spoon levels and limitations is critical.

Years of trial and error passed before I had a commanding grasp of how many spoons I have and how to use them. It’s important to respect and give grace for each spoon we use at events, activities, and situations. Thoughtful consideration makes participating in the world a deeper, richer, and more ful filling experience.

A phenomenal spoon necklace can be purchased, at the below link, to show our shared spoon endeavors and support AwareNow Magazine & Podcasts, in their beautiful efforts to raise awareness for causes one story at a time:

The Spoon Life Necklace www.thespoonlife.org

One stride, two strides, done. ∎

Disability Advocate, Author & Corporate Healthcare Professional www.awarenessties.us/fox-rigney

FOX RIGNEY is a leader in the Michigan Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and disability community. He holds positions as Committee Chairperson of a MS Community Engagement Committee, board chair of Corewell Health’s disability focused resource group, member of a MS Government Relatiions Action committee, and leader of a

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JONATHAN KOHANSKI OPEN WATER SWIMMER, PHOTOGRAPHER & MS WARRIOR

Photo Credit: Jonathan Kohanski

PERSONAL

STORY BY JONATHAN KOHANSKI

A GOOD NIGHT OF SLEEP

IT’S A WONDERFUL THING

I woke up this morning and stopped…

The sky was grey. I did not have to rush out the door to get to the beach and catch the sunrise… I guess I don’t ever actually “have” to do that. We are adults and we can make those choices. We put time and effort into those things that help fill our cups, activities and people alike. Instead, I got up and didn’t make coffee. I had a glass of water and went to the gym. I sifted through some older shots and grabbed this one.

I’ve changed things up a bit, maybe a lot recently, and started to put myself into situations that I have quite literally struggled with for decades, if not my entire life. I’ve shared things that I normally would have let eat me alive inside. Growth necessitates these steps. We can do all of the “inner work” on ourselves in isolation forever, but we will never really see the results until we take those steps.

One morning you may wake up feeling refreshed and feeling different. The world may look a little different. You may wonder why everything felt so serious… why you made everything so serious.

A good night of sleep is such a wonderful thing. ∎

JONATHAN KOHANSKI

Open Water Swimmer, Photographer & MS Warrior www.awarenessties.us/jonathan-kohanski

Hi, I'm Jonathan, I'm a wanderer of sorts, looking to further enrich lives and share experiences that show we are all capable of truly amazing feats that push my own boundaries and can many times turn heads. I'm a sucker for raw and real stories and attempt to share my own, with all the good and bad through that same lens. I'm always open to finding my next adventure that will help me to continue writing the stories that can help others overcome their own demons. I'm a lover of the water and spend a lot of my free time in it, whether it be swimming, body-boarding, or taking photographs while in it. I was diagnosed with MS at the age of 25 and it has changed the course of my life, not just in a physical sense, but also in my perspective of life, what is valuable to me and worthy of my time. We all have our struggles and triumphs, I'm here to share mine and maybe, help others through theirs.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Kohanski

ELIZABETH BLAKE-THOMAS STORYTELLER, PHILANTHROPIST & OFFICIAL AMBASSADOR FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS

‘MEDICINE WITH WORDS’ EXCLUSIVE COLUMN BY ELIZABETH BLAKE-THOMAS

WE’RE

ALL GOING TO DIE

IT’S HOW WE GET THERE THAT MATTERS

We are all going to die, it’s how we get there that matters. That journey is often referred to as ‘The Game of Life’.

Have you played or heard to “‘he Game of Life’? For those of you who haven’t, the aim of the game is to get from age 18 to retirement, making major life decisions along the way. You start off by choosing one of two paths: the university route, or the vocational route. Once you get through this first stage, you are then put on a path that you are stuck with all the way to retirement. Along the way you can choose marriage, kids, house purchases, and don’t forget the inevitable midlife crisis right here next to the cartoon of the balding man and his sports car.

The other day, I was at a friend's house. She has two young kids, both under the age of ten. In order to prolong the inevitable bedtime, the children asked to play this game. I had no idea how playing a family friendly board game was going to lead me to an existential crisis. I was astonished to see that even in 2024, this game only had one main path to move your pieces down. Don’t get me wrong, the kids went to bed very content with their fictional life of well paid jobs, which were only possible through the university route, followed by the purchase of big houses and many children, which led to a fabulous retirement package. But as they walked up the stairs to bed I wanted to cry out,

“…I was more scared to have regrets about not choosing this unknown path.”

I was led to believe that the “correct” way to live my life was the way the board game showed us. And for a while, I did just that. I finished university, got married, bought a home, had a beautiful daughter, and started my own company. But then I realized something; That just by following this path, I wasn’t “living”, at age 30 I wasn’t feeling ful filled in my mind, body and soul. It all felt very practical and monotonous, like I was just going through the motions. I didn’t want to keep rolling that dice, just to see where it landed on that one path. In the last ten years I have experienced 4 major chapters in my life. With many lessons learnt along the way.

The first chapter taught me that changes can be more than just your career, or a familial or financial situation. It can actually be about your location, a shift for your body. I live in Los Angeles and by my accent you can tell that I was not in fact born there. I was born in England, where the weather is gray, and yes it rains. All the time. At the age 35, I planned a trip from London to Los Angeles. My trip was initially intended to be a reset and restart to help me with life back in the UK. I will never forget stepping off the plane at LAX, seeing the palm trees against the blue sky, and feeling the warmth of the sun on my face, smelling the salty ocean. My body felt different, free. My quick holiday turned into coming back for a longer holiday, which then eventually turned into moving. It’s easy to make this change sound simple but I was 6000 miles away from my family and friends, I knew no-one and didn’t know where to live oh and don’t get me started on the whole visa process. Was this location change daunting, scary? Totally, but I was more scared to have regrets about not choosing this unknown path. According to findings from the MIDUS project, while some life transitions may initially cause stress or upheaval, they can also lead to personal growth, increased resilience, and improved overall well-being over time. This highlights the dynamic nature of human development and the importance of embracing change as a catalyst for personal growth and adaptation.

The second chapter taught me to be open, to be ready to take those opportunities when they present themselves, this expanded my mind. At the age of 38, I witnessed a parent worrying about their child turning 18 and no longer needing them. For context, my daughter is an actress and has been for a long time, and I was her on-set guardian for years, this meant being their every day to protect her, help her and make sure she had everything she needed. I quickly understood that once she became an adult and didn’t legally need me on set anymore I would need to find an alternative job. Yes, I was at an age where people don’t typically start something completely new, but after being a theater director back in the UK, this industry didn’t seem so far out of reach. I knew I understood actors and story so film could be the perfect next step. I had made several contacts via my daughter’s work and one of these became a bit of a mentor. He said to me, “You should be a director.” I asked him how, and he said 6 words to me that changed my life, “You just say you’re a director.” That blew my mind, all I had to do was say it! So I took his advice and began introducing myself as a director. I didn’t have a degree in film, but I was open to learning everything in a hands-on way.. In fact, so many creative careers can come from just ‘doing’. I was redefining my path. A study conducted by researchers at UC Berkeley and other institutions, found that exposure to new and challenging experiences can promote neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. The study demonstrated that these neuroplastic changes were associated with improved cognitive performance. Subjects exposed to enriched environments exhibited enhanced learning and memory abilities, as well as increased resilience to age-related cognitive decline.

The third chapter taught me that no job is worth sacrificing your physical or mental health over. My soul was challenged in a way I hadn’t experienced before. Age the age of 43, I had directed about 15 feature films. It’s always an intense process making a movie. People can become tired and emotions are heightened. However there is never an excuse for abusive behavior. I got severely bullied on a film set. I’m not just talking “a few passive aggressive comments”, I’m talking full on psychological and emotional abuse everyday for at least a month.

After that last film, I went home, sat, and stared out of the window and felt totally lost. I became anxious and I was broken by an industry I had become very attached to. Therapy was not quite right for me but I knew I needed to do something. So I turned to mindfulness techniques. Many months later I began to feel more like me again. People that I didn’t even know were commenting on my positivity and joy, I recognised that I wasn’t the only one looking to achieve this level of peace. I founded a company that helped me share the methods that had put me back together. This path was my spiritual path. A study done at the University of Chicago found that participants who had undergone emotionally evocative experiences showed a 40% increase in accuracy when identifying the emotions of others compared to those who had not experienced such events.

My fourth chapter taught me that by putting my time and energy into self-enrichment and personal growth I could live my best life. My mind, body, and soul were working as one. At the age of 44, I was living on a 34ft 1978 boat and driving a seafoam green 1969 VW bus! Remember I’m British, so I have to do classic LA things including having a handbag dog. I loved this life, it was serene, watching the sunrise and sunsets over the ocean. I was able to go paddleboarding everyday, I even adopted a couple of ducks that lived on the back of the boat. So I was already going against societal norms with my lifestyle. But then I went one step further. I totally veered off the path that I had created, In fact I think I was somewhere around the gum drop in ‘Candy Land’. I sold everything! I realized the boat and bus were beginning to take more time and energy from me than they gave. They both needed regular maintenance, I was concerned about rust and mold and upkeep became more expensive.

I got rid of everything because those things no longer served me, what I needed changed. This was the minimalist path. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs suggests that once basic physiological and safety needs are met, individuals seek to fulfill higher-level needs such as love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization, which are less dependent on material possessions. I've been on the unknown path, the redefined path, the spiritual path and the minimalist path.

So what does my game of life look like now? Well, my current path doesn’t have a name yet, and that’s ok. It’s an ever changing journey. For your next chapter, you don’t always need a big ‘wake up call’. You don’t need the threat of dying. It doesn’t suddenly need to hit you that one day you will die, and nobody around you needs to die. Hunter S. Thompson said, “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "Wow! What a Ride!”

We’re all going to die, it’s how we get there that matters. ∎

ELIZABETH BLAKE-THOMAS

Storyteller, Philanthropist & Official Ambassador for Human Trafficking Awareness www.awarenessties.us/elizabethblakethomas

Elizabeth Blake-Thomas is a British award-winning storyteller and philanthropist based in Los Angeles. She is the founder and resident director of entertainment company Mother & Daughter Entertainment, whose motto is “Making Content That Matters”, putting focus on each project starting a conversation amongst viewers. She is also the creator of the healing methodology Medicine with Words which is designed to help “spring clean” your mind and help free yourself from unnecessary noise so that you can live a more purposeful, peaceful life. She is the author of Filmmaking Without Fear which is a multi-medium resource curated for indie filmmakers. Her FWF podcast is available on all streaming platforms, and the book of the same name is available on Amazon. She is a regular on panels at Sundance, Cannes and Toronto International Film Festival, Elizabeth mentors wherever possible, ensuring she sends the elevator back down to all other female storytellers.

SUSAN GRAU INTUITIVE MEDIUM, SPEAKER, AUTHOR & TV PERSONALITY

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH SUSAN GRAU

SPIRITUAL AWAKENINGS

SUSAN GRAU ON LIFE, LOSS, AND THE AFTERLIFE

Susan Grau, an internationally renowned intuitive medium, author, soul healer, and speaker, possesses an extraordinary ability to connect with the unseen realms. Her journey began with a profound near-death experience at the age of four and a half, setting the stage for a life dedicated to healing, spiritual enlightenment, and bridging the gap between the physical and the ethereal. Join us as we explore Susan's powerful work and the profound spiritual insights she has gleaned from a lifetime of connection with the other side.

ALLIÉ: Your near-death experience at the age of four and a half was clearly a pivotal moment that unlocked your ability to communicate with the spirit world. Can you share more about what that experience was like for you at such a young age, and how it shaped your spiritual path going forward?

SUSAN: Absolutely, my near-death experience was both profound and disorienting as a child. I was enveloped by a sense of immense love and peace that alleviated any fear. This early encounter with the spirit world, although it confused me at the time of the experience, opened my eyes to the thin veil between our physical reality and the

SUSAN GRAU INTUITIVE MEDIUM, SPEAKER, AUTHOR & TV PERSONALITY

“Remember, love transcends physical death, and those bonds remain strong. They can be a source of healing and strength.”

SUSAN: (continued) experience laid the foundational understanding that we are all connected by and to this boundless energy, which has directed me towards a path of healing and spiritual exploration.

ALLIÉ: Losing a loved one is an incredibly painful experience that most people will face at some point in their lives. Drawing from your own personal struggles with loss as well as your work helping thousands of grieving clients over the years, what insights can you share about the grieving and healing process?

SUSAN: Grieving is a deeply personal journey and for me, being a medium doesn’t change my experience. Having gone through the grieving process many times, I have been able to relate and help others with their deep and painful losses. It’s important to remember that grief manifests differently for everyone. One of the most effective insights I can share is to allow yourself to feel all the emotions that come with loss—there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Healing begins when we acknowledge our pain and embrace the support of others. I like to remind my clients and myself that grief is in the corner doing push ups and the ebb and flow is a normal part of riding the waves of these painful emotions. Grief decides when it is done with you, you do not decide when you are done with grief. The stages of grief can be immensely difficult and confusing. Through my work, I've seen that maintaining a connection to our loved ones' spirits can provide comfort and peace. Remember, love transcends physical death, and those bonds remain strong. They can be a source of healing and strength.

ALLIÉ: In your upcoming book “Infinite Life, Infinite Lessons”, you dive deep into the soul's journey and our spiritual evolution. What do you feel are some of the key spiritual lessons we are here to learn in this lifetime? How can we become more attuned to our soul's purpose?

SUSAN: One of the key lessons is learning to live from a place of unconditional love and compassion, not just for others but also for oneself. We are here to learn how to forgive, to grow, and to let go of our perceived limitations. To become more attuned to our soul’s purpose, it's important to engage in deep self-re flection and to listen to the intuitive guidance that comes from within. Connecting with nature, meditation, and journaling can help facilitate this deeper connection to our inner self and the universal energies that guide us.

ALLIÉ: As an evidential medium, you have the remarkable ability to connect with and receive messages from those who have crossed over. Can you describe what that communication is like for you? How do you hope sharing these messages can bring comfort and healing to the bereaved?

SUSAN: Communicating with those who have crossed over is an incredibly sensitive and nuanced process. It involves releasing my limiting beliefs and then attuning myself to the higher vibrations of the spirit world. The messages come through as feelings, words, or visual symbols that I then interpret and share with the living. My hope is that by conveying these messages, I can provide individuals with closure, reassurance, and the comforting truth that their loved ones are at peace and still connected to them in spirit.

AwareNow Podcast

SPIRITUAL AWAKENINGS

Exclusive Interview with Susan Grau https://awarenow.us/podcast/spiritual-awakenings

“One of the most profound truths I’ve learned is that our physical existence is just one aspect of our broader, infinite journey.”

ALLIÉ: Your personal journey has included studying with luminaries like Dr. Raymond Moody and serving as a powerful thought leader in the realms of spirituality, mediumship, and near-death experiences. What is one of the most profound spiritual truths you've come to understand through all of your experiences and how does it inform the way you live your life each day?

SUSAN: One of the most profound truths I've learned is that our physical existence is just one aspect of our broader, infinite journey. This understanding has filled my life with a sense of deep gratitude and purpose. It reminds me to live with intention, to cherish each moment, and to continue serving others by helping them connect with this larger reality. It's a daily practice of aligning with this truth, which not only enriches my own life but hopefully inspires others to explore their own spiritual path. ∎

Learn more about Susan and her book ‘infinite Life, Infinite Lessons’: www.susangrau.com Follow her on Instagram: @susangrauofficial

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When I was a little girl, I used to skip — not walk.

DEBORAH WEED FOUNDER OF THE SELF-WORTH INITIATIVE

‘THE SELF-WORTH INITIATIVE’ EXCLUSIVE COLUMN BY DEBORAH WEED

SUPERHIGHWAY WHY FRIENDS ARE LIKE ROADS

When I was a little girl, I used to skip — not walk. It’s no wonder that I thought everyone was my very best friend. So, when other kids were mean to me, or didn’t want to be my friend, my heart shrank.

As I got older, that kid-like-naivete got me into a lot of trouble. When someone rejected me, I’d jump higher, hoping to befriend this enigma of a person. It brought me a lot of pain. Enter my dad. You got to know him a little bit in my last story about the Three Blue Drops.

“I don’t understand. What am I doing wrong?” I asked Dad.

“Sweetheart, let me tell you why friends are like roads,” he answered. As an only child, he too had to navigate the meaning of friendship.” He went on to tell me, “There’s the one way street. That is where you keep on giving, but you get nothing back. Oh, and watch out for the dreaded toll booth. Every time you have an interaction with that person, expect to PAY tenfold. Then, there is the rickety bridge. There is nothing there to support your friendship. At any second it could collapse. Now, when you encounter an island, realize that there is NO way to get to them. They are on their own. What I want for you, my darling daughter, is the SUPERHIGHWAY! This is where there is a healthy exchange that goes back and forth.”

Although, I’m still that naive little girl inside, wishing that everyone could be my best friend — what I strive for are those special, precious people who are SUPERHIGHWAYS… And that’s why friends are like roads. ∎

AwareNow Podcast SUPERHIGHWAY

Written and Narrated by Deborah Weed https://awarenow.us/podcast/superhighway

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DEBORAH

WEED

Founder of the Self-Worth Initiative www.awarenessties.us/deborah-weed

Deborah Weed is a whirlwind of creativity and motivation, passionately championing self-worth through her Self-worth Initiative. Her mission? To help families and their kiddos live authentically, energetically, and joyously! Deborah's journey began with a personal crisis: after dazzling in high-pro file roles like working on a $26 million pavilion for KIA Motors and being Citibank's Director of Development, she faced a misdiagnosis that left her bedridden for three years. Her discovery of a 1943 copper penny worth a million dollars turned her perspective around— if a "worthless" penny could be so valuable, so could she! Inspired, Deborah wrote and produced The Luckiest Penny, an interactive musical that teaches kids about self-worth. As a motivational speaker, Deborah brings fun and inspiration to everyone, proving that self-worth is a joyful, transformative adventure.

LUIS VALDEZ OWNER OF PUGILIST GYM

‘PEQ

PERFORMANCE’ EXCLUSIVE COLUMN BY SONJA MONTIEL

PUGILIST A HOME FOR LEARNING, A PLACE OF HUMANITY

On any day in the city of Thousand Oaks, California, there is a boutique gym, an uncommon community center, where one can hear the thumping of the music, sounds of gloves hitting the bags, and lively conversation floating out into the air.

Pugilist, which means “one who fights with one’s fists, a boxer,” began as an idea.

Welcoming all ages between 5 and 75 at all skill levels and backgrounds, the sense of community at Pugilist is palpable. Adults are taking cardio boxing, kickboxing or jiu jitsu classes, teenagers are coming after school to train with their boxing team, amateur and semi-professional MMA fighters are prepping for their upcoming bouts. There is an ecosystem at play with disparate groups coming together to train.

For those who enter this gym, Pugilist is a home where everyone knows your name and each member is seen, heard and understood by their unique stories. It remains more than a place to learn how to fight. It is a place people learn how to stretch their mental toughness, stay disciplined in something they believe in, and know that there are people to support their goals.

The origin of Pugilist started with Coach Thor Vijeh and his desire to preserve the history of boxing in his teaching. Thor hopes Pugilist can uphold the tradition of fighters like Gene Tunney and James L. Sullivan. Even the gym’s logo depicting a mustachioed boxer, reflects illustrations of these athletes from the turn of the century. He shares, “As a person who's fought and won championships, I want to preserve the legacy that's behind it.”

All of these visions turned to reality when Thor began sharing his ideas with his student, Luis Valdez.

Luis had bought his first membership ever at Thor’s previous gym working to keep off the 180 pounds he had lost. Luis shares, “Ten years ago, I was close to 360 lbs. and prediabetic with high blood pressure and high cholesterol. After a sugar and carb bender leading to an attack of pancreatitis, I realized I had to change my life – not just for me, but for my family. I realized there were no shortcuts, no easy path. But honestly, the hardest part was just getting started.”

The connection between coach and student paved a new road towards designing a unique space in the tradition of old school boxing gyms that required the talent of four partners – Thor had the skill of Muay Thai, MMA and Brazilian jiu jitsu, along with the overall vision of the gym; Luis contributed his experience in business and his enthusiasm for the sport; Taylor Vijeh brought the purposefulness of organization and a background in finance; and Jenny AdamsValdez infused her creativity handling the overall design, along with branding and merchandise.

The story of Pugilist began with this thought of creating a place to build up people in the community – allowing them the space to learn and grow in ways that they didn’t know they could. Thor describes Pugilist as “a place of blazing your own trail.”

“Learning how to box is just as cerebral as it is physical. As with any martial art, there’s strategy and technique and there’s a reason behind every movement, like playing chess but integrating intense physicality.”

As a part of the Thousand Oaks community, it is important that the owners of Pugilist continually give back, reinvesting in the people of their city. Beyond creating a safe place, they developed an after-school program within their boxing team, sponsoring a number of students to train with their fighters and coaches. Pugilist sponsors a number of high school wrestling programs from Thousand Oaks to Newbury Park to Simi Valley. They also have donated many gift certificates for fundraising efforts all around the community. The gym also supports a number of endeavors important to members, whether it be fundraising for schools or non-pro fits, collecting Toys for Tots or putting on events like their “Mitt Marathon” which sent donations to the Thousand Oaks Police Charitable Foundation supporting local youth.

Most of Pugilist’s coaches are professional fighters. Their education was from years of sacrificing their own well-being, taking blows to the body, and training most of their waking hours. They bring their vast experience to every class –sharing techniques, how to build mental toughness, and how to protect mind, body and spirit no matter their students’ journey.

Coach Thor, along with his Bellator victories, won the "King of the Cage" Junior Welterweight title belt in 2016. More recently he expanded from competing in Muay Thai and MMA, and won gold as a brown belt with the North American Grappling Association (Gi and no Gi) and North American Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation open weight and middle weight.

A native of Thousand Oaks, Coach Austin Ahles is a champion kickboxer and won the 2018 US Muay Thai Open Championship. Clearly a lifelong learner, he has recently picked up jiu jitsu and begun to compete.

Early on, Pugilist partnered with Rodrigo Carvalho and Akxe Academy to build their jiu jitsu program with skilled instructors. Coach Kameron Fardad, who is about to make his MMA pro debut with Lights Out Xtreme Fighting 16 in May, teaches the adult jiu jitsu classes. Coach Dany Labastida, who has an impressive record of MMA, Muay Thai and jiu jitsu fights, teaches the youth jiu jitsu classes. Part of the Tunney Family boxing dynasty, Coach Chris Key manages the boxing team with his two decades of experience and his unique boxing style and infectious energy.

“Learning how to box is just as cerebral as it is physical. As with any martial art, there's strategy and technique and there's a reason behind every movement, like playing chess but integrating intense physicality,” Thor explains.

Written and Narrated by Sonja

Montiel https://awarenow.us/podcast/pugilist

According to Thor, the best thing that martial arts has given him is knowing that anything is possible with hard training. “I'm not daunted by challenge. I feel like I can accomplish anything. It might be hard, but I know if I train enough, if I practice enough, I can do it. This is what I want to teach members in the gym.”

For the non-fighters of Pugilist, the opportunities to learn through these sports applies to everyday life. Luis shares, “I am an older person who doesn't have any goals of getting to the UFC, but I can keep my mind sharp by figuring out what my opponent is going to do next and maintaining my fitness level at the same time. I feel that makes me a better person, for trying and learning how to anticipate.”

Jenny Adams-Valdez adds that to work hard physically helps to calm stress levels and relax the mind. “It makes me more open. I learn something new about someone every day.”

Young students have the outlet to release their high amounts of energy and help them channel their focus. The people who call Pugilist their local training place know that it’s more than a gym. It’s a home where humanity exists amongst people from all ages, backgrounds and stories. In the words of the owners, “We celebrate each other, we comfort, we learn from each other.” ∎

Learn more about Pugilist and the team: www.pugilist-gym.com

Follow on Instagram: @pugilistgym

SONJA MONTIEL

Co-Founder of PEQ Performance Consulting www.awarenessties.us/sonja-montiel

SONJA MONTIEL (MA Education) is a cofounder of PEQ Performance Consulting LLC and cohost of “The DH Effect” podcast. She and her partner, Hilary Bilbrey, guide individuals, families, and teams to consistently reach successful outcomes through positive and emotional intelligence strategies. During Sonja’s 23 years working with thousands of teens and young adults worldwide, she began to witness many societies creating an unhealthy hyper-achieving culture that misguides our young people in their pursuit of living a life of fulfillment. Sonja is changing that narrative highlighting educators around the world who dare to think differently about education. (www.peq-performance.com)

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REDEKER HEART TRANSPLANT RECIPIENT & FOUNDER OF THE HEARTFELT HELP FOUNDATION

DENISE

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH DENISE REDEKER

BEYOND SURVIVAL

A MISSION TO BRIDGE THE GAP IN POST-TRANSPLANT CARE

Denise Redeker not only survived a life-saving heart transplant. After recovering, she founded the Heartfelt Help Foundation. Through her personal journey and commitment to helping others, Denise addresses the critical yet overlooked challenge of post-transplant housing costs, particularly in high-priced areas like Silicon Valley and San Francisco.

ALLIÉ: Can you share more about your personal journey as a heart transplant recipient and what inspired you to establish the Heartfelt Help Foundation?

DENISE: I received my second chance at life in January of 2018. I like to say I'm six years old, which means I'm in first grade now. And sometimes I act like it. But going through the desperate need for a transplant, facing death, actually dying a couple of times and being brought back gives you a new perspective on what's important and what's not. And most stuff isn't important. It also gives you a perspective and a sense of empathy for what other people are going through, the challenges they have to face, whether it's in or out of transplant.

My personal story, my recovery from transplant, was incredibly difficult. I went through both types of organ rejection. I had three open-heart surgeries in the span of a week. I had, as I said, organ rejection. I had a hospital-acquired

Watching this child every day is kind of like my inspiration.

DENISE REDEKER HEART TRANSPLANT RECIPIENT & FOUNDER OF THE HEARTFELT HELP FOUNDATION

DENISE: (continued) have to relocate—I live about two and a half hours north of my transplant facility. And so we were one of the ones who had to relocate to Silicon Valley for a period of time. For me personally, it was almost four months.

We are, bluntly, very privileged. As a family, we're very lucky. We're solidly middle class. We have a community that, without us even asking, saw that we were facing expenses that were going to be hard for us to meet and chipped in and held fundraisers for us and were incredibly generous to us. And that got us thinking: a) about how lucky we were, but b) what happens when people don't have community, when they're coming into this without a job, without insurance, without family to support them, without, bluntly, money. Because in this country, unfortunately, that's what you need.

I was still in the process of recovering, so these thoughts were swirling around in our heads, but we really didn't know what to do with them until the following year, when I happened to overhear a conversation in a hospital setting. I heard about a gentleman who was awaiting a transplant in the hospital, much like I had the year prior, and was going to be pushed back on the waiting list for a transplant because he didn't have the funds to pay for post-transplant housing. He was going to be told to go home and start a GoFundMe or have a bake sale to raise those funds. And it, quite frankly, made me angry. I just thought something as solvable as money should not be denying this person, whoever this person is, their second chance. And I vowed to go home and do something about it.

I didn't know what, really, at the time, and I just kind of threw together a fundraiser in my backyard. We raised $12,000, and we were able to fund that particular patient's post-transplant housing and have some leftover for the next patient. That kind of got the ball rolling. I sat down that holiday season with my family and said, "I think this is kind of what I'm meant to do, and I think this is what I want to do." So we started doing our due diligence and filed for our 501(c)(3) paperwork right after the first of the year in 2020. And I thought we were probably not going to get our 501(c) (3) paperwork processed because the government had bigger fish to fry in 2020 than processing a small family-run 501(c)(3) paperwork.

But doing that due diligence was super helpful for me because I learned about families who were choosing to live in their car for their post-transplant housing because they couldn't afford a hotel. Families who were choosing, because they felt like they had no other choice, to live in rundown, not properly equipped hotels because they had to stay close to the hospital and couldn't afford to stay in a clean, safe, well-maintained hotel room or an apartment building. And that just made me more and more determined that we could do something about it. There was no one else—there still is, to this day—no one else in Northern California providing post-transplant housing to anybody. And we're the only ones who are doing this kind of work.

So in the fall of 2020, we actually finally got our 501(c)(3) processed, and we hit the ground running. And as of today, we've been able to fully fund 31—we just accepted our 31st patient—31 patients' post-transplant housing in full, unless they had some sort of insurance that contributed to it, and then we paid what the insurance didn't cover.

ALLIÉ: The specific challenges and difficulties that heart transplant recipients and their families face regarding posttransplant housing… I mean, certainly, Silicon Valley, San Francisco, it's expensive anyway. So outside of expenses, there's just an availability issue too, in terms of what's actually available at any rate. Is that part of it as well?

DENISE: Absolutely. You have to understand and remember—and most people don't even realize this—that when transplant patients, in general, especially heart and lung and some other transplant patients, are initially discharged from the hospital into post-transplant housing, we are as immunosuppressed as you can possibly be. The doctors have worked to pretty much remove our immune system so that our body doesn't reject our new organ. Because for the rest of our lives, as transplant patients, our body is going to see our donated organ as a foreign invader. Left to its own devices without immunosuppressant medication, our body would attack and try to kill our donated organ. With very few exceptions in the liver transplant arena, it is never going to see my heart, my new heart, for example, as part of my own body. If I stopped taking my immunosuppressants tomorrow, even six years after my transplant, I would go into rejection and most likely die.

DENISE: (continued) So as a severely immunocompromised patient, especially when you're initially discharged from the hospital, you need a particular type of housing to be safe. You need to not be in group housing because, obviously, if you are with a bunch of other people who maybe are not taking their immunosuppression as seriously as you are, then you're putting yourself at risk. You need to have a place that has a kitchen because you need to be able to cook your own healthy meals as you begin your recovery. You need space, and that limits the availability. That means that your average hotel room may not be the right place for you. It means that a communal living house, where there are multiple families in one place at the same time, may not be the right place for you. For pediatric patients that we work with, their options are things like the Ronald McDonald House, which is a fantastic organization and was designed for pediatric cancer patients who are immunosuppressed but not as immunosuppressed as the transplant recipient is. We've had pediatric patients and their families come to us because they've gotten sick at the Ronald McDonald House and have had to be readmitted to the hospital. Then their team is saying, "Well, can you do something else? Is there something else you can do?" And then they find us, either through their social worker or on their own, and we're able to put them in clean, safe, near-hospital housing that has a kitchen and is speci fically tailored to the needs of a particular family.

Transplant doesn't happen in a vacuum. Your life still goes on. You've still got expenses at home. You've got your family at home. If you're a young mom, say, who just received a heart transplant, you need a space that's tailored for your family to be with you, your children, your babies, to be with you. If you are a pediatric patient, you need a space that has a couple of bedrooms so that your child can be in a space and you can be in another space so that you're sleeping comfortably and in a proper environment for you. If you're a young adult and your caregivers are your parents, that's a different kind of lodging situation. So what we want to do as the Heartfelt Help Foundation is treat the patients as individuals, not as medical record numbers, and look at them as the whole person and the whole family and the whole group that they are, because they are. They are people first, and they come with their own unique family situations. Honoring that leaves them feeling seen and heard and understood, which is vitally important—and valued, especially valued, because so much of this is just kind of dehumanizing. You go through this whole thing, and it's all about what your labs look like and titrating medications to what your blood pressure looks like and what your labs are looking like. So much of it is just about what your body's doing, but not really who you are. And severing those two things and honoring those two things and valuing the difference between them is part and parcel of what we do here at Heartfelt Help Foundation.

ALLIÉ: Beyond financial assistance, what other types of support does the Heartfelt Help Foundation offer to heart transplant recipients and their families as well?

DENISE: Well, I think I kind of touched on one of them, and that is that we value the family. It's not just the patient that goes through this. It wasn't just me that went through the heart transplant. Yes, I was the one who actually physically had the heart transplant. I had my own trauma, but there is something unique about caregiver trauma. It has been minimized a lot—parent trauma, caregiver trauma—because that caregiver has sat by a bedside and watched helplessly as their loved one, their child, their spouse, their partner, their parent, their sister, whoever, has come as close to death as you can get and come back. And so caring for them as well as the patient is, I think, part and parcel of what we do here. But we also provide a mentoring service. When I went through my own transplant six years ago, the only resources I had were hospital support groups, and quite frankly, they were full of elderly, mostly men, and they weren't the resources I needed. They weren't living the life post-transplant that I wanted to live. They weren't doing the things that I wanted to do post-transplant. I needed something different, and what I needed wasn't available to me. I needed to see someone who was doing this post-transplant life well. I needed to see someone who was accomplishing physical things that I hadn't been able to do for myself pre-transplant. And I needed to feel like there was hope, quite bluntly. I just needed hope but wasn’t getting that from the resources that I had available to me locally.

So six years ago, I basically stalked a couple of people online who were living the life that I thought I wanted to live and forced them to be my friends in real life. And luckily, this is a very small community, and we support each other beautifully. Both of them said they would absolutely help and walk me through this process. I realized then how valuable it was to have somebody ahead of you. And I think that's true in a lot of aspects of life, that having somebody who's about four steps ahead of you in whatever adventure you're going through is very helpful for setting goals, for realizing that you can get through all the hard things, and see a better future, a better tomorrow on the other side. So I really strive personally to be that person for every family that we work with.

Exclusive Interview with Denise Redeker https://awarenow.us/podcast/beyond-survival

ALLIÉ: In your experience with the Heartfelt Help Foundation, what have been some of the most impactful stories or moments that highlight the significance of this incredible work that you're doing? Can you share just one story, perhaps?

DENISE: Oh gosh, every single one of the patients we've worked with has changed my life and made me more empathetic and made me more proud to be a part of the human community, to be a part of this transplant community. The good that is in these people who are fighting to get to the other side of this adventure with transplant, fighting to survive, is inspiring to me on a daily basis. The concept of organ donation and transplant is a miracle and a gift. It shouldn't also come with the worry and the stress of whether or not you're going to have to choose between putting food on the table and supporting your family, your child, your spouse, in their post-transplant housing.

To tell you a specific story, I'll share a little bit about one of the pediatric patients we worked with. This little girl, her name is Armani, received her transplant at about 18 months old. I may have the months off a little bit. She was teeny tiny. I went to visit her in the hospital multiple times after her mom and I connected and became friends. This little girl, in her short little life—and she's a little bit over two now—has had strokes, a heart transplant, and gone through more in two years of life than most of us go through in 50 or 60 or 70 years of life. She's relearning—after 341 days in the hospital, she was discharged to post-transplant housing. So most of her little life she spent in the hospital. If you watch this little girl today, she is the happiest child. She is a constant smile, a constant joy. Her mom is a hero to me. Her mom is studying to be a nurse, and every day at her daughter's bedside, she would take her classes online and keep up with her schoolwork while she was advocating for her daughter, caring for her daughter, and making sure that her daughter had the best chance of survival. Now, post-transplant, she's home and out of post-transplant housing that we were able to provide for her family. But she's still advocating for this precious little girl who is the most smiley, sweet child on the planet. This child is struggling to learn to walk, talk, eat, and do all the things that kids should be doing at this age, going through intense and grueling physical therapy, smiling the whole way, and just being as happy as you can imagine. Watching this child every day is kind of like my inspiration. When things get hard, we're having trouble raising money, or struggling to figure out where the next best thing is for the foundation to move, I look at her. I see the videos her mom sends me or posts on her Instagram page, and I see this girl struggling. There's no sense of struggle on her face at all. You see joy on her face.

This is why there's organ donation. This is why we do what we do—because we see this joy that is on the other side of this, despite the struggle. As hard as everyday life can be sometimes, no matter what you're facing, you can still choose joy. Having tears running down your face, you can still choose joy. Being in the middle of one of your hardest times, this little girl reminds me of that every single day. She's my inspiration. She will never know it, her mom probably doesn't know it, but this child is my inspiration every single day. ∎

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‘GLOBAL GOOD’ EXCLUSIVE COLUMN BY TANITH

HARDING

SOILHAWK FEATURING

SAKSHAM BANSAL

Saksham Bansal, an electrical engineering student at Georgia Tech, embodies the fusion of technology and environmental stewardship. His current project, SoilHawk, epitomizes this intersection, leveraging ground sensors and aerial drones to revolutionize agricultural practices. His commitment to sustainability extends beyond academia; recently recommended as the Water Ambassador of Gurgaon by the Ministry of Water Resources, India, Saksham's dedication to addressing environmental challenges is both commendable and inspiring.

TANITH: Saksham, you have worked on some incredibly innovative solutions for environmental issues using technology. What inspired you to start?

SAKSHAM: I’ve always been passionate about making a positive impact on the environment. It all began back in 2019 when my school organized a cleanliness drive in our neighborhood as part of our Prime Minister’s Clean India initiative, “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan”. Inspired by this, I actively participated in a Waste Segregation Campaign in my condominium, transforming it into a zero-waste society. My mother, who shares my passion for the environment, has been a tremendous source of inspiration. Combining my interest in sustainability with technology, I've been dedicated to various projects addressing environmental challenges. My goal has always been to leverage the tools and resources at our disposal to make a meaningful difference. Additionally, participating in initiatives like the Prime Minister's Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and launching the "Stand For Water" campaign has instilled in me a sense of responsibility towards the environment and reinforced my belief that we must Initiate, Innovate, and Integrate to create sustainable solutions.

TANITH: You’re exploring new sustainability ideas with your startup, Stayive. What have you achieved so far?

SAKSHAM: At Stayive, we currently have three projects live: Rootry, Dripmise, and Opticker. One of our notable projects is Dripmise, an automated timer tap I designed during the pandemic. Considering the WHO’s guidelines and the ongoing water crisis, I created a faucet that conserves water while ensuring proper handwashing. Unlike existing automatic taps, Dripmise only uses water, when necessary, significantly reducing wastage. The project was recognized by the Ministry of Water Resources, India, and I was also recommended as the Water Ambassador of Gurugram. We installed the device at a customer’s worker facility, where it saves approximately 96,000 liters of water each month. This project highlighted the potential of technology to address real-world problems, even with limited resources available during the pandemic. Additionally, our Rootry project, which focuses on smart irrigation and Opticker is a smart cane for the visually impaired making them independent and helping them with their day-to-day mobility.

TANITH: You also worked on an idea for the Indian Railways that has the potential to conserve 7.34 billion liters of water annually! How does it work?

SAKSHAM: The Indian Railways, the world's largest railway network, is a vital lifeline connecting countless communities across the country. Recognizing the importance of conserving resources, I proposed an innovative idea to reuse condensed water from air conditioning units on trains, rather than constantly relying on fresh water. This simple yet effective solution has the potential to save a staggering 7.34 billion liters of water annually, signi ficantly bolstering water conservation efforts within the railway network. Moreover, implementing this idea could also lead to substantial savings on water bills for the railways. Given the extensive reach of the railway network, even the most remote areas could benefit from this initiative. In addition to conserving water, railways could potentially distribute the saved water to these distant locations, addressing critical water scarcity issues.

One of the most appealing aspects of this idea is its remarkably low implementation cost. Through thorough research and in-depth analysis of air conditioning units and railway design, conducted under the guidance of a senior of ficer in the Indian Railways, we identified this simple yet impactful solution. By leveraging existing infrastructure and resources, we can make a significant difference in water conservation efforts while also contributing to cost savings and serving communities in need.

TANITH: In 2023, you won a Global Youth Award for Environmental Leadership. How did it feel to be recognized internationally for your innovations?

SAKSHAM: Winning the Global Youth Award for Environmental Leadership in 2023 was an incredible honor. Being recognized internationally for my work was truly inspiring and has motivated me to continue making a positive impact. This award has given me the opportunity to serve as a Global Youth Change Ambassador, a role I am excited to take on. It’s a great platform to further our efforts in creating positive change around the world. Thank you for this recognition and for believing in the power of young people to make a difference. This achievement is a testament to the support from my family, school, and community, who have always encouraged my endeavors and provided the resources to pursue my passions. The award has also reinforced my commitment to the principle of Initiate, Innovate, and Integrate, as I continue to explore new ways to address environmental challenges through technology. ∎

Connect with Saksham on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bansalsaksham

Follow on Instagram: www.instagram.com/_stayive

TANITH HARDING

Director of International Development, The Legacy Project, RoundTable Global www.awarenessties.us/tanith-harding

Tanith is leading change management through commitment to the RoundTable Global Three Global Goals of: Educational Reform, Environmental Rejuvenation & Empowerment for All. She delivers innovative and transformational leadership and development programmes in over 30 different countries and is also lead on the international development of philanthropic programmes and projects. This includes working with a growing team of extraordinary Global Change Ambassadors and putting together the Global Youth Awards which celebrate the amazing things our young people are doing to change the world.

EXCLUSIVE COLUMN BY TAYLOR RAU

INVISIBLE BOUNDARIES

THE UNSEEN STRUGGLES OF A BLIND WOMAN IN A SIGHTED WORLD

As a legally blind woman, I encounter many unique situations while interacting with society—some good and some bad. The story I am about to share is one of the bad ones. I use this story as an example to illustrate how the words and actions of others can be devastatingly hurtful to disabled people. My hope is to raise awareness about this type of behavior and its problematic nature. By talking about it, I believe we can change how society interacts with disabled individuals.

I went to a doctor's appointment and was treated like an incompetent child. I want to preface this by saying I do not think the medical assistant in my story is a bad person. I believe her actions were truly born of ignorance, and she did not intend to be hurtful or disrespectful. That being said, what happened during my appointment was one of the most hurtful experiences of my life.

It started when I walked up to the check-in window, which I knew the location of due to several brightly colored indicators that I could pick up with my remaining vision and physical indicators I could identify through tactile feedback. I heard a woman's voice behind the plexiglass that separated patients from staff, informing me to come “this way” to check in. I could tell her voice came from my left, but I could not see where she was or which area she wanted me to go to. She yelled again, “Over here!” I responded, “I'm legally blind, so I cannot tell where you're pointing. Could you tap the counter you need me at?” Audio cues are key for those who are visually impaired or blind. She did as I requested, and I made my way over to her by following the sound of her palm and the sound of a ring she must have been wearing as she tapped the counter. Her tone when addressing me was slow and unnecessarily loud, as if she thought I wouldn't be able to understand her otherwise.

I tend to pick and choose my battles in situations like this, as it can be emotionally exhausting to stand up for myself all the time. So, I let it go at first. She placed a paper before me informing me of my patient rights and asked me to sign with a simple “Sign here.” Yet again, she pointed. I corrected her this time, saying, “I can't see where you're pointing since I'm blind. Can you place my hand holding the pen directly on the signature line?” She did this, and I finished checking in.

When I was called back by the medical assistant I mentioned earlier, I rose from my chair and walked over to her. She immediately grabbed my cane to try to pull me to the exam room. This felt like a huge invasion of my personal space. My cane is an extension of me, and I see it no differently than if she had grabbed me by the ear to drag me around like a naughty child being reprimanded. I remained calm but removed the cane from her grasp and told her that that was not helpful. Before I could tell her what would be helpful, she grabbed my arm tightly with both hands and tried pulling me. I yanked my arm away, still keeping my tone polite, and told her that I could follow her with my remaining vision and that I knew the layout of the office well enough to do so. Even after making it clear that it wasn't okay to pull or push me without my consent, she repeatedly put her hands on me to “guide me” to the exam room and to the exam table. She even attempted to lift me up onto the table, as if I were a child. Her demeaning behavior continued. She tried ‘helping’ me change into the hospital gown by trying to undress me herself.

“I always speak up now - not just for myself but for others.”

When I had to provide a urine sample, she came into the bathroom with me and asked, “Do you need help wiping? Can you go potty on your own?” At this point, my anger was replaced by sadness. I told her jokingly, “Oh no. I've been doing this my whole life. I know how to use the toilet,” to try to lighten the mood. As soon as she stepped out and the door closed, I felt my eyes well up with tears, and my throat became tight. I took a deep breath, trying to hold back the heavy waves of emotion that washed over me, and finished up in the bathroom. And can you believe it—I did it all by myself. Hopefully, my sarcasm is obvious here.

At last, our interaction had neared the end, but not before she cradled my hands in hers, leaned in close to me, and said with pity in her voice, “You're so inspiring. I'm so sorry that you can't see,” and left.

The rest of my appointment was uneventful, thankfully. My doctor was kind and courteous, and I went home. Once inside the safety of my apartment, which I shared with my husband and our two cats, I let go. I let the tears come. I sobbed as I settled myself on the entryway tile floor. It had taken me time to regain my confidence after being diagnosed, and I felt like I was right back at the beginning. I felt small and incapable. Then I thought about how other disabled people might have or could experience something similar. This filled me with a sense of determination to do everything in my power to ensure that it didn't happen to anyone else. I immediately contacted the clinic's patient experience line to file a formal complaint. It was hard to go over what had just happened since it was so recent, but it was important that I addressed the issue. I don't know if my complaint made a difference for others like me, but I hope it did. I always speak up now - not just for myself but for others. ∎

TAYLOR RAU

Blind Disability Advocate

www.awarenessties.us/taylor-rau

I am a 29-year-old legally blind woman, and my greatest passion in life is being a disability advocate for the community. It can be hard to speak up for yourself, but I'm very good at speaking up for others. Becoming disabled has opened my eyes a lot to just how inaccessible the world is, and I am determined to do everything I can to raise awareness of this issue to hopefully make a difference.

FEATURE STORY SHARED BY THI NGUYEN

HANGING COFFEES

FILL THEM WITH KINDNESS

A special thank you to our very own Thi Nguyen for finding this story and sharing it on social media. We couldn’t help be reshape here…

There is a little coffee shop, where two people arrive and approached the counter.

“Five coffees please. Two for us and three hanging.”

They paid, they took their two coffees and left.

I asked the waiter. "What’s this about hanging coffees?"

“Wait and you'll see."

Some more people came in.

Two girls asked for a coffee each, they paid & left.

The following order was for seven coffees and it was made by three women - ‘three for them and four hanging coffees.’

I was left wondering...what is the meaning of the hanging coffees, they leave.

Then, a man dressed in worn clothes, who looks like he might be homeless, arrives at the counter and asks sincerely...

“Do you have a coffee hanging?"

“Yes we do, sir.”

They serve him a coffee.... I got my answer.

People pay in advance for a coffee that will be served to whoever can't afford a hot drink.

This tradition started in Naples.

Amazingly, it has spread throughout the world’s cities and towns.

It’s also possible to order not only "hanging coffees" but also a sandwich or a full low cost meal.

Wouldn’t it be great if we could all start doing this in the cities and towns where we live?

Small kindnesses like this can impact so many lives, in ways we could never imagine.

Maybe we should all try it. ∎

Photo Courtesy: ObeyGiant.com

Photographer: Jon Furlong