She explained that her journey has been anything but easy. Over the years, she endured experiences that could have broken even the strongest person; verbally and mentally abusive relationships, the heartbreaking loss of her twin, struggles with anxiety and depression, an autoimmune disease, multiple hospitalizations, and battles with alcohol addiction. Through it all, she admitted there were moments where she almost lost herself completely.

For a long time, she stayed silent about her feelings, her needs, and the pain she carried. Although she wore a smile daily, internally she was struggling. She reflected on how failing to heal from one situation before moving into the next left her emotionally exhausted and disconnected from who she truly was. Somewhere along the way, she stopped believing she deserved love, happiness, and peace. She found herself constantly pouring into others while remaining unfulfilled herself.

Eventually, she realized something had to change.

She shared that one of the hardest parts of her healing journey was accepting that she could not overcome everything alone. Even in moments when she felt abandoned or isolated, she learned she was never truly alone. Through countless nights of prayer, tears, and reflection, she found the strength to begin doing what was necessary for herself — even knowing it would require releasing people, habits, and relationships that no longer served her.

After several attempts to handle life her own way, she finally surrendered fully to the process of healing. She described that decision as one of the best choices she has ever made. She let go of guilt, shame, fear of judgment, and the pressure of holding onto unfulfilling relationships. Instead, she made a commitment to dedicate an entire year to focusing on herself, extending to herself the same grace and compassion she had always so freely given to others.

Throughout her journey, she credits her parents and son for loving and supporting her during her darkest moments. She also expressed gratitude for the friends who stood beside her without judgment — simply asking, ‘How can I help?’ and giving her the safe space to be vulnerable, cry, laugh, heal, and pray.

She recently proudly celebrated one year of sobriety and the decision to finally choose herself!

She acknowledged that the journey has not been easy. There were setbacks, difficult days, and moments where she stumbled — but she never gave up. Her story is a reminder that life is not defined by the number of times we fall, but by the courage to rise again.

And as she beautifully stated during her session: ‘My journey is not over… it’s just beginning.’”

It is our hope that anyone reading this story will find encouragement, no matter what situation or unexpected curveball life may have thrown your way. Even in the darkest moments, healing, restoration, and new beginnings are possible when you place your trust in the Author and Finisher of your faith. Surround yourself with people who will pray for you, protect your vulnerability, and hold your confidence with care as you navigate your journey. Most importantly, immerse yourself in the Word of God and allow it to renew your mind, strengthen your heart, and remind you of who you are. Then, in time, watch the caterpillar blossom into the beautiful butterfly it was always destined to become.

Go fly Shannon; I'm soooo proud of you!