"The Great Transformation" by Renee Vargas

Still I Rise Podcast

Excerpt from Renee's story: "I have overcome adverse childhood experiences. I continue to work on self-growth and acceptance. I thrive to make every day better than yesterday. Challenges will arise but I am stronger now. I am breaking through. I have scraped part of my chrysalis. I see the sunshine. It is so much brighter than the darkness. I am embracing the change. I am transforming into a grateful, beautiful butterfly. I am starting anew. I am blessed for everyday God opens my eyes. I try not to miss opportunities. I take chances. I do what matters to me. I spend time with friends, yes! I have many now. I am proud of the foundation my first-born David and his high school sweetheart Sarah are building together. Codee is growing into an incredible young man. I have the love I crave from a partner and embrace making memories with Michael, and our families. In hindsight, I appreciate each of the experiences I have endured, but they have molded ME.

When you find yourself wandering around lost like the caterpillar and surrounding yourself in the darkness of the chrysalis, be thankful for little things, look for the brightside to every situation, believe in and stay true to yourself, embrace differences, and be kind and respectful. These are ways to divert yourself to seek the sunshine and when you do, you too will transform into your own beautiful butterfly."

Hello! I'm Lisa McKenzie, the Founder of You Night Events and the "We Lift You Up" fund 501c3 public charity dedicated to helping cancer survivors find a path forward after a diagnosis. Life is never the same after hearing the words, "You have cancer." For many, the trauma of the experience can interfere with living life to the fullest. Our "Story Crafting" Program helps individuals deconstruct a challenging life event and reconstruct it. Listen in!

Support the show

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 [e-mail]