LOCALadk Magazine

LOCALadk 11 en who had served and understood military culture as well as what it's like to be back in civilian society. "Sharing our stories is powerful because it reminds us that we are not alone," Sondra said. "There were wom- en from different generations and backgrounds, with different lengths of service and physical abilities. Hear- ing other women veterans' stories allowed me to see pieces of myself in their journeys. Attending the Wom- en Veterans' retreat was such a meaningful and impact- ful experience for me. My biggest takeaway is to keep sharing your story, if you feel comfortable, because it can truly help others." Another former participant named Tori said, "The months leading up to the Arts & Healing retreat were difficult for me as a mother and my mental health had taken a decline. I knew I needed to try something differ- ent. It was exactly what I needed. The retreat changed my relationship with myself by helping me see how un- sympathetic I was being to myself, how important self- care and a weekend away can be in processing change and navigating a new season of life." Like Sondra, the experience of women sharing their stories was immensely healing for Tori. "Hearing the experience and perspective of the other women was profound. I didn't feel alone in my struggle, and it was moving to be an ear for others." The objective of Creative Healing Connections' year- long integrated programs is to support lasting im- provement in their quality of life. For Sondra, that ob- jective was met tenfold. "What stands out most is that the growth doesn't stop when the retreat ends. That's really where the work begins," she said. "The practices we learn only make a difference if we continue to use them, refine them, and stay committed to them in our everyday lives. Healing is ongoing, and staying engaged within a community or with an accountability partner matters. The monthly check-ins are an essential part of continuing the work. They give us the opportunity to reconnect, reflect and support one another." How Creative Healing Connections Works Creative Healing Connections is run by a hands-on board of trustees without paid staff. Programs are funded through grants, sponsorship, private donations, and a major fundraising event — the Mad Hatter's Ball. This event is a whimsical, informal event where guests are invited to create and wear their craziest hats. Each year, a woman from the Tri-Lakes area who has experienced cancer and has been an inspiration to oth- ers is honored. She is invited to share her story and her most valuable message to others. Trustees gather rec- ommendations from community members. This year, Diana Trim accepted our invitation to be our Mad Hat- ter's Ball honoree. A Saranac Lake resident, Diana became a dedicated nurse in 1998, after caring for her father during his bat- tle with cancer. Throughout her career, she served pa- tients in OB/GYN, Family Practice, Infertility, and Gas- trointestinal care. In 2012, she knew something wasn't right and was diagnosed with Stage 3 ER/PR Positive Breast Cancer. After chemotherapy, radiation, and three surgeries, she is now cancer free. Her experience profoundly shaped her belief that the most important diagnostic tool in any room is a patient's voice. "If you are unable to advocate for yourself, bring in a partner, a friend or a colleague who can advocate for you," Diana said. Creative Healing Connections is honored to cel- ebrate Diana's resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to others. This past spring, the board of trustees was over- whelmed by the support of local and regional individ- uals, businesses, civic organizations and foundations. The funds raised from the event and its silent auction will allow twenty-four underprivileged women to par- ticipate in a year-long journey of community and heal- ing, one that begins with a weekend retreat of learn- ing, sharing, and creating with other women who share their commitment to personal healing and community. Creative Healing Connections is honored to provide these opportunities for women in the Adirondacks. As they heal, they have more to contribute to the well-be- ing of their loved ones and their communities. How You Can Help If you know a woman who could benefit from Creative Healing Connections' programs, connect her with their program and, in doing so, provide her with the support and community she deserves. To learn more about upcoming retreats and programs, current board members openings, or how to make a dona- tion to support their programs, please visit their website: www.creativehealingconnections.org. t Creative Healing Connections was established in 1998 to ser ve women with chronic physical and mental health conditions.

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