FEATURE IN THE L.A. SENTINEL!!!

In life, we just never know what it may bring. I thought I'd always be the girl that never went through anything, that life would always be easy. Well, I certainly was wrong! From time to time, life leaves us in for a 'rude awakening'. Today, I can say that I was grateful for that wake up call because I was clearly ignorant to what this thing called "LIFE" really was, it was far from simple for sure. Safe to safe - my struggles made me strong, they gave me strength to carry on. They give me the ability and privilege to inspire through my my story and my testimony. If I can save even one life, I know my living isn't in vain. We find our purpose through our hurt, our pain, our triumphs, our troughs, and most of all our strength!!

Through all that I went through, the unimaginable pain and suffering, sexual abuse, doubts, self harm, suicide attempts, staying in psych wards and residentials, feeling alone and in a such dark dark place, one where I thought I was very near to death. I can truly say that all of it carved me into I am ought to be. Safe to say I wouldn't go back and change a thing, even though it was so very painful mentally, physically, and emotionally it has made me stronger, wiser, and most of all spread a message to KEEP. HOPE. ALIVE!!! I am a testimony of a hopeful heart. No matter what I've through I kept that HOPE of things getting better and I am glad I did because I am here today to inspire through my story, my message, and C.H.E.E.T.A.H Movement.

Before I spoke out, I wasn't happy because I wasn't being real with myself. I was hiding, I covered up with long clothing even in the summer. I didn't want to hide anymore. So, I made a decision to 'free myself' - I didn't need nor did I want anyone to validate me. Well, today, I walk so proudly with my battle wounds - these are scars of pain being turned into power and a struggle being turned into strength. It is so overwhelming to know how many people I am inspiring, how many lives I've saved, and how many lives I'm changing daily! I would not have imagined myself in a million years speaking out about something such as mental health or even self harm. But then again we just never know what life's journey will give to you again the way. Sometimes it's not even for us, it's for someone else. I believe in giving to others what God has placed on me. Someone may need this and I have hope in my heart that it will resonate!
BTW! My short film on mental health entitled 'A HEART OF HOPE' that will be officially released December 20! ❤️🙏

(A little sneak peek of article!!)

Here's link to full article - enjoy! ✨🙏 https://lasentinel.net/16-year-old-mental-health-advocate-keindra-woods-creates-inspirational-short-film.html