Suitcase of Dreams

Hazell McKenzie

United States1 Book

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Children's Biographies & Memoirs

BIOGRAPHY
Resilient, relatable, compassionate and determined are just a few words which aptly describes me, I am a woman who has once fallen to the very depths of despair to subsequently rise like a Phoenix blazing a trail to success and to being a positive agent of change in this world. I have parlayed my life experiences, drive, creativity and God-given abilities into my current mission of being an advocate for single mothers who may be struggling with Mental Health issues within several communities.

My passage to becoming a supportive public face and voice for this cause began as a bright-eyed, teenaged island girl who migrated to the US and was faced with the culture shock and difficulties of fast-paced first-world living.

18 years later, I was battling chronic depression, struggling with feelings of anxiety, fear, and stagnation and lacking coping mechanisms for ordeals which included dealing with a son who struggles with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder and Asperger’s Syndrome. This pushed me to the verge of committing suicide.

Fortunately, I was able to use my strength and faith to pull myself up from rock bottom and put myself on this present road where I am now able to be an affirmative influencer to those currently dealing with inner torment. As a survivor of Depression, I have experienced firsthand the painful symptoms such as paranoia, hallucinations, anxiety, hopelessness, over-sleeping, over-eating and fatigue and I aim to not only destigmatize the disorder but to also remove the shame associated with it.

I aspire to be a voice for women, single parents, abuse victims, immigrants and an advocate for individuals and communities who are afraid to talk about Depression and to seek help.