Sometimes transformations come in unexpected ways and you cannot prepare for them. I came across a post from Christine Vance who is a Talent + People Leader based in Dallas on Linkedin and the power of her story moved a needle for many people around the world as it went viral.
She simply wrote: “This week marked 6 months since I lost my husband and father to our four young children due to complications of COVID, including the misdiagnosis of Multiple Myeloma. I had seven days with Andre prior to him being placed on life support. After fighting for ten days, the Heavens welcomed him with open arms.
Throughout this journey, I have been reminded first hand of the importance to focus time on family, health, and passion. Over the past two years HR professionals, in particular, have worked tirelessly to ensure our people are safe and cared for. What many of us did not do was follow our own advice. Remember, take moments for your own wellbeing and make memories with loved ones.
I am at peace with my situation and look forward to my next opportunity in our new future.”
Incredibly powerful narrative as in her thirties she became a widow with 4 children. I checked who our common connections were and noticed she had worked at Neiman Marcus - years prior I had the privilege of working alongside creative innovator Ken Downing and the communications team to launch the brand into Australia and it was one of those partnerships I truly cherished. I reached out to her, introduced myself and asked if she would like to share the power of her story on my podcast. We met for the first time on her birthday and the podcast interview was a gift to herself and the children. The power of her story reached over 10 million people and continues to deliver global impact as I sit here writing this book.