Still I Rise Podcast
Featuring everyday Shereos sharing inspiring stories of how they persevered after a life- altering event.
Story Crafting is a program of You Night Empowering Events and the We Lift You Up Fund - a 501c3 public charity. Our primary focus is to address emotional healing and to help women find a path forward after a cancer diagnosis. However, future plans include stories of trials and triumph from every walk of life.
Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Martha E. Stewart is board certified by the American Board of Dermatology and specializes in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology for patients of all ages. Dermatology plays an important role in detecting and treating skin cancer. Skin cancer is almost always curable if detected and treated early.
Skin cancers vary in shape, color, size and texture, so any new, changed or otherwise suspicious growths or rashes should be examined immediately by a board certified dermatologist. Early intervention is essential to prevent the cancer from spreading. For more information about Dr. Martha Stewart and her team of Board Certified Dermatologists and Licensed Aesthetician's, visit: www.drmarthastewart.com
For more information about the Story Crafting program, visit: www.younightevents.com/programs
Still I Rise Podcast
"Like the Mighty Sea" by Jessica Forcier
An excerpt from Jessica's story:
Navigating adulthood, motherhood, and cancer, I learned to find solace in my children – Dalton, McDermott, and Olympia – whose vibrant personalities and bountiful love filled my life with joy and purpose, even amid the turmoil of illness. My husband Michael's quiet strength balanced my
anxious nature, and our family bond became a source of balance.
The rest of my family also provided (Mom Norah, Dad Tony, sister Vanessa, sister Emily and brother-in-law Paul) unwavering support and were instrumental in my determination. They never left my side, held me when I cried, and helped me find laughter when I thought it impossible. My mother especially became my caretaker, confidante, and personal chauffeur. We somehow found adventure and inside jokes (isn’t this fun?) as we navigated my cancer road together.My dearest friends were a source of blessings as well.
Furthermore, I was inspired by the resilience of others, like Nicky Newman, a stage-4 breast cancer warrior, whose zest for life despite terminal illness resonated deeply with me even though we didn’t share diagnoses. I adopted her mantra to "Go Grab Life." Nicky's legacy reminded me to cherish every moment, and live life to its fullest.
Today, I stand not as quicksand but as the mighty sea – powerful, serene, and capable of weathering life’s storms while embracing its joys. My journey with cancer has taught me the importance of living in the present, of finding beauty in everyday moments, and of nurturing resilience in the face of adversity.
Reflecting on my experience, I realize that while cancer imposed profound challenges, it also offered moments of introspection and growth. I've learned to navigate life with a renewed perspective, acknowledging that every situation possesses multiple angles, and that amidst hardship, there is room for joy, hope, and gratitude.
If I could distill my journey into wisdom for others, it would be to seize life with both hands, to cherish the present moment, and to nurture your inner positivity, strength and gratitude. Cancer has reshaped my life, not by altering my essence, but by reinforcing my capacity to embrace life with courage and optimism."
Thank you to our sponsor, Dr. Martha Stewart, Board Certified Dermatologist.
Please SUBSCRIBE to this podcast so that you can be inspired by future interviews!
Still I Rise features stories from You Night's STORY CRAFTING COMMUNITY. To read additional stories, visit our Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/YouNightStories. Would you like to participate in a 6-week Story Crafting small group experience so that you can share your story? Write to us at teamyounight@gmail.com