Heartfelt Update

Hardship Heroes Update – From My Heart 💛

I’ve spent so much of my life feeling like I was failing... like I wasn’t measuring up to the world around me because I chose a different path. One that didn’t follow the traditional roadmap. One that was filled with detours, breakdowns, and uphill climbs. It’s a path that forced me to face some of the darkest parts of myself.

For years, I believed my mental health was what held me back from greatness. And it very well played a part, but the truth is... it wasn’t my depression, anxiety, or trauma. It was me. My mindset. The victim mentality I clung to. The way I used any “black cloud” as reasons to play small, to stay stuck.

It took 8 long years of therapy (shout out to Andrew, because everyone needs an Andrew!) and now going into YEAR 4 of running this nonprofit, to realize something huge:

I’m not just trying to survive anymore. I’m successful.

But not by someone else’s standards. By mine.

I created my OWN definition of success. I no longer squeeze myself into the box the world told me I had to fit in. I built something real out of my pain. I built Hardship Heroes, and let me tell you, it’s working! It’s growing. It’s connecting. It’s changing lives. And for the first time, I can feel it all clicking into place.

This year is different. This is our year. Year 4.

We’re receiving GRANTS (yes, our SECOND ever! The first will be announced in June!).

We’re building deep, meaningful connections with the community.

We’re being trusted with donations that people worked HARD for, and we don’t take that lightly.

That responsibility sometimes feels overwhelming, and yes... imposter syndrome creeps in. But not today.

Today, I’m sitting here crying those messy, grateful, ugly tears. Because this right here?

This is what purpose feels like.

And let me tell you, it’s worth every second of doubt, every challenge, every sleepless night.

I’m honored. Humbled. And absolutely FIRED UP.

So if you’ve been wondering what we’re up to, buckle up. Because you are going to want to be part of what we’re creating! Big things are happening, and they’re only just beginning.

Thank you. For the love, for the belief, for being part of this story.

Remember: One candle can light thousands of candles. Happiness does not decrease as it is shared.

A BIG thank you to The Wawa Foundation for supporting our mission and believing in the work we do. Because of your generosity, we’re able to continue creating meaningful experiences and lasting memories that reach far beyond the hardship.

Your support fuels our passion and helps bring light to those who need it most. We are honored and so grateful! 💛

Now… Let’s get out there and do some good!✨