For episode 42, we sat down with Courage to Comeback Award winner, Suzanne Venuta. Suzanne was one of 9 children raised in abject poverty and experienced horrific abuse causing her to eventually disassociate as a way to cope with the trauma. We talk to Suzanne about what's it's like to live with DID (formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder) and how she eventually learned to forgive her abusers and become whole. We also talked about Suzanne's many adventures with Outward Bound! Suzanne is currently bringing hope to many through her inspirational volunteer work with schools and online through her writing. She has her sights set on giving a TED talk next. This! Is Obstacle Course. Let's Go!
If you plan to refer to someone as, "an enigma," maybe don't. Also, here's what it means.
If you'd like more information on Cum Town, here it is!
Here's Suzanne's website where you can read her wisdom and follow her adventures.
Watch this incredible video from The Courage to Comeback Awards!
Here's the Women's group, Women Welcome Women, that Suzanne mentioned and connected with on her travels.
Inishmore Island folks! Go to there!
"You cannot escape your past, it catches up to you." SV
For more information on Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), here's a good place to start.
Suzanne's moving story of a teacher placing a loving hand on her shoulder is yet another reminder of the power of small acts of kindness.
"I've been to Hell so many times I should get Airmiles." SV
"Whatever you are going through and whatever you may go through, you are not the only one!" SV
Terminal Uniqueness is the mistaken belief that the situation the individual is facing is unlike anything faced by other people. This is not true. You are not the only one! Look past your shame and you'll see others looking too.
In looking for a therapist, look for someone who truly listens and is humble.
5-6 deep (belly) breaths covers a multitude of anxious thoughts. One minute can change your life. Truly.
Journaling was a way for Suzanne to let her thoughts go. And she would sleep better.
Spirituality for Suzanne is about awe and wonder not about God and religion.
Outward Bound is a incredible organization that promotes healing and courage through adventure. Suzanne was chosen for their Woman Of Courage program. She also participated in their incredible Reach Beyond Expeditions program. Every Outward Bound journey is an Inward Bound journey. This could be the program you need!
If you can't get out of it, you gotta get into it!
Here's the video from Suzanne's speech at the Courage to Comeback Awards ceremony.
Here's the Global News story.
Here's another great article on Suzanne!
Courage is not about one big act but a habit we cultivate every day. One step at a time.
"Courage is getting up in the morning." SV
"We fear the dark places in our life but they hold the treasures." SV