Words of Hope & Healing

Our words are powerful and can influence those who listen to or read them. What’s more, when we tell a story, our story, those who can relate tend to open up about their own journey. When we hear others are going through similar experiences, it helps us cope – to know someone else is out there dealing with the same problems, failures, as well as successes, etc.

We want to take some time each month to highlight someone’s story – in their own words. We have invited foundation volunteers to write a little about themselves to show our readers that there is hope and healing that can be found with sharing your story about how mental illness has impacted their life and what brings them hope.  Below is a short glimpse into Marzia’s life. She hopes this provides help for those that may be struggling.

“My name is Marzia. I am a 41 year old adult with depression who tries her best. As a child, I always felt different. I had a hard time learning in school. As I got older, I was told I would never drive or work. I learned to drive at 21 years old and I got a job at Heartland School. I am a lunch lady and have been there for 11 years. I know to stay well I need structure. Every day in high school was hard. I went to an alternative school. I got better help and was diagnosed with depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, and learning disabilities. I had help getting the right medications. Now, I am an adult who wants to be able to live on my own one day and I want to give people hope to never give up. I want to be a voice for people who do not have a voice. I have proved them wrong. Never give up. You can do it. I am proof.”

If you are willing to share your story, please contact Janae Shillito at jshillito@thekimfoundation.org

Janae Shillito, Community Relations Director, The Kim Foundation

Janae Shillito has been with The Kim Foundation since February 2017. She holds two science degrees with her alma maters including the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Janae’s love of volunteering and helping those without a voice created a strong desire to become a part of the non-profit world. In her spare time, she enjoys anything crafty, reading a good book, and being outside with her husband, Cory, and Rottweiler, Hank.