She Stories Feature Friday - Lea Appleton

JUNE 2023 | ISSUE NO.18

Summer Vibes: Fashion Top Picks

About She Stories She Stories is a community of women that promotes self wellness, empowerment and the value of supporting each other. You have overcome tremendous obstacles.

Telling your story brings healing for you and others.

There is empowerment in every story. We are Real Women with Real Stories. What started out as a storytelling night has transformed into a sisterhood.

From gatherings to giving back, we inspire and affirm the every day woman that she is brave and beautiful.

Our Founder In 2017, I decided to carry on the tradition of testimony service and share this amazing gift of storytelling from my elders to my tribe. I provided a sacred space for women to share their challenges and victories so they can not only be empowered but through each story women would find a circle of support and empowerment. Her story matters and the world needs to hear it. Ehmandah Ramsey

We proudly celebrate the empowered women of She Stories. They have fearlessly faced challenges, owned their stories, and reclaimed their power. Their resilience, determination, and triumphs inspire us all.

At She Stories, we provide a platform for authentic narratives that ignite change, challenge norms, and uplift one another.

These women's voices resound, creating a sanctuary where hope thrives. We extend heartfelt gratitude to these courageous individuals for sharing their journeys, reminding us of our own strength.

Through storytelling, She Stories amplifies voices and fosters inclusivity. We encourage more women to reclaim their pens, as their stories have the power to inspire generations. Join us in celebrating victories, acknowledging struggles, and championing authenticity. Together, we shape a community where lives are transformed.

Thank you for being part of She Stories.

Your stories change lives.

Blessings,

Ehmandah

FEATURE FRIDAY We are back with Feature Friday! Today, we bring you an inspiring story of resilience and selfdiscovery. In the words of Brene Brown, "Owning your story is the bravest thing you'll ever do." Hailing from Southern California with diverse influences, Lea Appleton faced numerous challenges throughout her life, including divorce, cancer, and career transitions.

However, Lea has emerged stronger, embracing her story and empowering others through her journey.

Join us as we delve into her captivating story, filled with moments of triumph, vulnerability, and the transformative power of embracing one's own narrative.

FEATURE FRIDAY

LEA

APPLETON

Our history is woven into who we are. It is the tapestry that tells the tale of our journey, with each thread representing the places we've been, the challenges we've faced, and the people who have influenced us along the way. In this edition of She Stories Feature Friday, we celebrate an incredible woman who has embraced her past, overcome obstacles, and emerged stronger than ever. Today, we bring you the remarkable story of one such woman who has turned her challenges into triumphs and found solace in her own resilience. Meet Lea Appleton, a beacon of strength and inspiration.

Born in Southern California, Lea Appleton had a colorful childhood that extended beyond her homeland. Spending early years in both Texas and the Philippines, she absorbed diverse cultures and developed a sensitivity that would shape her journey. As a young girl, Lea found solace and love in the presence of her grandparents, who provided unwavering support when her family returned from the Philippines. With a name passed down from her grandmother, Lea cherishes the legacy and connection she shares with her namesake.

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“I am Enough.”

However, Lea faced her fair share of challenges as a woman. Life presented her with a series of hurdles, each leaving an indelible mark on her path. Divorce at a young age tested her resilience, but she emerged stronger, refusing to let it define her. At 29, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, a terrifying ordeal that forced her to confront her mortality. But instead of succumbing to fear, Lea found a newfound appreciation for life and a diminished concern for what the future held.

Fertility issues due to chemotherapy were yet another setback, but at 39, Lea defied the odds and welcomed twins into her life. The early onset of menopause at 45 posed yet another challenge, followed by burnout in a career she once cherished at 55. Through it all, Lea found herself in what she affectionately calls the "messy middle" of life, navigating the uncertainties with grace and courage.

In the face of adversity, Lea discovered that lifechanging experiences have the power to empower and humble us simultaneously. Each hardship she encountered became a defining moment, reshaping the trajectory of her life. Divorce taught her the importance of self-love and resilience.

Cancer instilled in her a deep appreciation for the present moment and the beauty that exists within it. Miscarriage and career transitions compelled her to embrace her true calling as a coach, guiding others through their own personal transformations.

With every twist and turn, Lea emerged more resilient, more compassionate, and more connected to the world around her.

Lea draws upon the lessons learned from her personal challenges and triumphs. She redefines what it means to be "okay" and finds solace in accepting life's uncertainties, even amidst chaos.

Her ability to find fragments of beauty amidst the rubble serves as a testament to her strength and unwavering spirit. Through it all, Lea has learned that time heals wounds and that growth often emerges from the most unexpected places.

But Lea's commitment to empowering others extends beyond her personal journey. She gives back to her community through various avenues. By providing pro-bono coaching to individuals in under-resourced communities through Coaching for Everyone, she ensures that everyone has access to the support they need. Her involvement with international graduate students at Stanford through Erickson Coaching International allows her to share her wisdom and guidance with the next generation of leaders. Additionally, Lea is an integral part of a program that serves emerging leaders in Ukraine, as she passionately believes in the power of coaching to drive positive change on a global scale.

Through it all, Lea lives by a simple yet profound affirmation: "I am enough." It serves as a reminder that her worth is not defined by external circumstances or societal expectations. Lea has embraced her story, the messy middle and all, and encourages other women to do the same. She embodies the strength, resilience, and grace that lies within each of us, urging us to celebrate our history and weave it into the extraordinary tapestry of our lives.

I HAVE REDEFINED WHAT IT MEANS TO BE OK.I DON'T HAVE TO LIKE IT. I CAN ACCEPT IT AND EVEN FIND BITS AND PIECES OF BEAUTY IN THE MIDDLE OF WHAT MIGHT FEEL LIKE RUBBLE. — LEA APPLETON

Her Shine MY FAVORITE SONG:

Resilient by Rising Appalachia HOW I CULTIVATE SISTERHOOD:

I go on really long walks/hikes with my my sister and my close women friends.

Being outside, moving our bodies, for me is supporting badassery.

MY LEGACY:

Loving my children.

MY INSPO:

I want to say that it is people but really it is the vastness, the beauty and diversity of nature. I am inspired when I am outdoors because I am reminded that there is something much bigger than myself. It gets me outside of my head and into my body, it provides opportunities to connect with other humans, and it can be awe-inspiring to experience.

Stay connected with Lea and her upcoming workshops by visiting her at linkin.bio/appletoncoaching Instagram @appletoncoaching

If you or someone you know would like to be a feature, let us know!

Embrace Your Journey, Queen!

Inspired by Lea Appleton's incredible story, we're sharing practical strategies and mindset shifts to help you bounce back from setbacks, slay uncertainties, and embrace your inner warrior. It's time to put yourself center stage with wellness practices that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Embrace change, cultivate meaningful connections, and shift your mindset for empowered living. Your journey is unique, queen! Let's conquer the world one fierce step at a time.

Embracing Change and Personal Growth: Unleash your inner queen, babe! Embrace change as your secret weapon for personal growth and transformation, just like Lea Appleton. Discover the keys to navigating life transitions, unlocking your full potential, and reinventing yourself fearlessly. Change is your fierce catalyst for growth, so step into your power and become the empowered version of yourself you were born to be.

Cultivating Meaningful Connections: Sisterhood is everything, beauties! Let's unlock the power of authentic relationships and meaningful connections. Inspired by Lea Appleton's journey, dive into finding your tribe of fierce sisters and create a support network that lifts you higher. Together, we uplift and empower one another as we slay our individual paths. We're in this together, so let's forge unbreakable bonds.

Mindset Shifts for Empowered Living: It's time to unleash your inner Sasha Fierce, darling! Explore mindset shifts that empower you to live your best life. Learn to flip the script on self-belief, practice gratitude, embrace challenges as opportunities, and cultivate a limitless growth mindset. Your thoughts have power, so harness them and embrace the extraordinary possibilities that await you.

You're a unique queen on a remarkable journey, and your wellness is paramount. Nurture your wellbeing, tap into your unwavering resilience, and embrace the strength within you. Lea Appleton's story reminds us that we have the power to overcome any challenge and emerge stronger. Together, let's embark on a journey of self-care, self-discovery, and self-empowerment. So grab your crown, embrace your journey, and conquer the world with fierce determination, one step at a time.

OUR SISTER ORG Transitional Living for Women and Children

Serenity House provides a safe, tranquil, structured sober living sisterhood atmosphere for the women to thrive. Many women need restoration, self-renewal, transformation, and an opportunity to reset and begin again. We serve women that have become displaced or who are facing homelessness due to unfortunate circumstances such as divorce, health problems, loss of employment, addiction recovery, abandonment and other unexpected life circumstances.

Our Mission is to help prevent homelessness and to provide healthy self-improvement patterns and a new way of living life by empowering women to experience Hope and Restoration that leads to selfsufficiency. Our holistic approach provides amazing benefits for the whole person. We focus on improving the spirit, soul, and body. It has been our experience that women thrive by focusing on building up the human spirit and soul through Christian principles, self-awareness, empowerment, life skills, life coaching and resources. We have seen women evolve in this way from striving to thriving.

Our Goal is for every woman to leave our program equipped for success and ready to thrive! With a new sense of self, restored confidence, and a strong desire to win she will conquer the challenges of life because her needs have been met. A woman/graduate of our program prioritizes self-care and knows how to use strategies and tools to remain self-sufficient. There is nothing she can't do!

We believe in community and supporting one another, so we encourage our graduates to give back the women to Serenity sisterhood alumni. Within this sisterhood, the new women can be encouraged by our Striving to Thriving Program alumni. Together with our staff and supportive partners, success is not only in sight….it is inevitable!

For more information visit: www.togetherweareone.co

YOU ARE NOT ALONE. YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS MORE THAN EVER. IF YOU NEED CARE, PLEASE GET SUPPORT.

NAMI | National Alliance of Mental Illness Call the NAMI Helpline at 800-950-6264 M-F, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m., ET Or in a crisis, text "NAMI" to 741741 for 24/7, confidential, free crisis counseling. https://www.nami.org/Home If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States.

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline The Lifeline is available for everyone, is free, and confidential.

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Text 988 CHAT WITH LIFELINE Línea de Prevención del Suicidio y Crisis 1-888-628-9454 National Domestic Violence Hotline 24/7 Call 800-799-7233 Text “START” to 88788 www.thehotline.org 211 | Essential Community Services Call 211 211 connects you to expert, caring help. Every call is completely confidential.

BE A FEATURE

We are dedicated to empowering a generation of find their voice and share their story.

Let's uplift and amplify women's voices together.

Find Your Community She Stories Claremont led by Ehmandah Ramsey She Stories Inglewood led by Rashunda Rene

BE A FEATURE

We absolutely love sharing the stories of everyday women just like you! Every woman has a story to tell!

In our community, we share our stories to uplift, inspire and empower women. Stories can be shared one on one, through social media and even through creativity.

Girl, we want you to know there’s healing power in sharing your story. Sometimes you may feel that there’s things only you could’ve experienced, until you hear someone else with a similar experience. You are not alone. Together we overcome.

Would you like to be a feature? Or do you know a woman who’d like to share her story at a live event?

Let us know! Let's change the world together one story at a time. It’s pretty empowering!

Email: hello@shestories.co www.shestories.co