24 CHAPTERS

My name is Amber Davis and I was born and raised in Oakland, California. Life is full of ups and downs; and I manage to get through it all with God on my side and my dog Tater Tot. I also have a whole new reason to keep going and to never give up! My soon to be born baby boy.

Dr. Andrea Lucie (Ph.D. in Mind Body Medicine).

For the past 30 years Andrea has worked with the military community including for the Department of Defense at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Bethesda, the National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE), Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC), The Marcus Institute for Brain Health at the University of Colorado and lately as facilitator of Traditional Medicine Retreat for Veterans, their families and First Responders.

Andrea grew up in the south of Chile and at the hills of the Andes mountains. She learned from childhood the value of traditional medicine while observing her grandparents perform traditional healing rituals. Her knowledge is drawn from traditional educational institutions in the United States as well as from mentors from the Lakota community and Mexican healers.

An advocate for integrated medicine and a holistic approach to healing, Andrea has specialized in the holistic treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury.

Following her desire to continue her service to the military community, Andrea moved to Mexico to facilitate sacred medicine retreats in Mexico, Costa Rica and Jamaica. There, she founded The Red Path Retreats, LLC, an organization dedicated to providing sacred medicine retreats to non-profit organizations helping veterans, their spouses and first responders.

Honoring the sacredness of the medicine, she has worked with traditional healers from Peru, Brazil and Mexico. Now she is a full-time retreat organizer and facilitator.

Anika Samone is a poet, award winning filmmaker and artist in the truest since of the word. Anika loved reading, creating and daydreamer in high school. Unsure of her path, she went to school for Computer Technology. Anika realizing in her second semester of her freshman year she wanted to be an artist. Unfortunately that was not what life had in store for her. Born and raised in Las Vegas Nevada, the oldest of 3 Anika had been using her writing and drawing as an outlet for years. Wanting to try something new Anika embarked upon a new adventure and picked up acting and filmmaking. She has won Best Debut Film for her first film project “That’s Her”, Performed on the Las Vegas Strip in “Can a Woman Raise a Man.” and has an IMDB filmography that speaks for itself. It has been long overdue but Anika’s journey has come full circle and she has returned to her first love, writing. Enjoy the walk through the corridors of her mind as she shares what’s wondering around in there.

Annie is currently working in a DV/IPV agency in the Bay Area.  She is a survivor of 19 years of horrific violence and control imposed by her husband during their marriage before she found freedom.   

Hers is not just a story of pain and suffering, but a story of survival and victory.  She was able to testify at her ex-husband’s trial, where he was convicted of 28 felonies and is currently serving 4 consecutive life terms.

It is a story of the future, after walking away with only the clothes on their back.   Now a graduate from Cabrillo Community College with an AA in Communication and an AS in Human Services, before attending UC Berkeley, also graduating as a double major in Gender & Womens Studies as well as Chicano Studies.

Annie is a public speaker, poet, author, advocate, educator and the proudest military mom with both daughters serving our country in the Army National Guard and the US Air Force.  She is a California native and has Mexican roots, which highly contribute to who she is.

Her story is far from over as she continues to use her voice in all spaces in order to raise awareness for all women who still have no voice of their own.

My name is Brenda Grisham

I am from Oakland, CA where I was born and raised by a single mother, I have 3 children, Deshonda, Christopher (deceased), Janiesha I am the grandmother (Nunu) of Laini, Kaori and Khatari.

I am the proud owner of 3 businesses and 2 nonprofits, I am the minister music of Seventh Ave Baptist church where I have bee a member for 58 years.

I am a community advocate, I provided services for victims of crime, I advocate for families that are going through the court system. As an advocate I assist families after they have lost loved ones by assisting them with the VOC application If they qualify for the services, they need to navigate this most traumatic time.

I am the Executive Director of The Christopher Lavell Jones Foundation Inc, the executive Director of Their Lives Matter Inc., The owner of Tru Blendz Beauty Bar, Upscale Financial Solutions, and Independent Financial Solutions. I provide support for human trafficking as a therapist for Love Never Fails Inc., I am a executive board member of the Violence Prevention Coalition, Family Support Advocates and the Chair of the Gun Violence Sub committee for the VPC and I serve on the board of various non profits in the bay area.

Myself and my team travel to Washington every December to address gun laws and background checks.

I have received many awards, Live your Dream Award, The Spirit Community Service Award, Frontline Warrior Keeper of the Culture Award, Oscar Grant III Foundation Community Service Award, Green the Church- Green Guardian Award, Black Excellence Humanitarian Award and Community Service Award from the Khadafy Washington Foundation

Safety and accountability is my focus the work that I do is in the memory of my son Christopher I am grateful to have been his mom for 17 years and I hope his legacy will live on long after I am gone.

As an advocate for every woman who finds herself in struggle, Chantelle Pape has spent the last several years using her own story to inspire and uplift to provide hope to those who are still searching for answers.

Chantelle is not only an author but a singer-songwriter who creates music based on the things she has overcome in her personal life to encourage others.

You can follow her page on tiktok @o_hey_its_chay for healing support.

I enjoy people and the science of the mind. I have worked in HR for 25 years along with providers and other healthcare systems. Supporting and educating others on legal policies. I moved into direct patient care leading me into the non-profit world and the efforts of change in the front line. Creating more awareness of levels of care and being in community within the science of healing the mind from a trauma informed care lens. My diverse skill sets provides holistical approach to care with impact on the individual’s.

Crystal, an up and coming entrepreneur from a small town in North Carolina, invites readers into her challenging but inspiring journey through life. Growing up in a close-knit southern family, she learned the values of resilience and love amidst challenges, including the struggles of being raised by a single mother and the heartache of loss. Crystal shares her experiences of overcoming bullying, navigating complex family dynamics, and ultimately finding her way to independence and success. After moving to the city, she embraced new opportunities, pursued education, and discovered her passion for sales and entrepreneurship. Crystal’s journey from a small-town girl to a thriving business owner is filled with moments of self-discovery, hard-earned wisdom, and the importance of family connection. Through her writing, she encourages readers to embrace their own rollercoasters of life, reminding them that every setback can lead to a new beginning. When in her spare time, Crystal enjoys spending time with her family and friends , fishing with her brother and dad, exploring new ventures, and cherishing the bonds that have shaped her journey.

Born in Córdoba, Veracruz, Mexico, on August 26, 1991.

Academic Background: I hold a BA in Marketing from the Anahuac University of Querétaro, Mexico.

Professional Experience: My career has spanned various roles in marketing, where I’ve honed my skills in communication and storytelling. This professional background has been instrumental in shaping my approach to writing and sharing my personal experiences.

Purpose or Inspiration for Writing This Chapter: I always felt very alone in my process and was ashamed and guilty to share my story. When I started sharing it with close people, I realized how healing it is to talk about it and, unfortunately, how many people go through the same experience. The more I share, the more I heal, and I hope that reading my story and the stories of all the warriors in this group will help you in your personal growth and healing process.

Personal Insights: Writing has become a therapeutic outlet for me, allowing me to connect with others and contribute to a community of resilience and strength. I enjoy meditating and connecting with my body and spirit, spending time with my partner, family, pets, and friends. I also love traveling the world and observing different cultural perspectives.

DeAnna is an accomplished author, overcomer, and dedicated advocate for women and children, with over 20 years of experience making a difference. As a mother of two adult sons and married for 27 years, DeAnna brings a wealth of personal and professional insight to her work. Her journey and dedication have empowered countless individuals, inspired change, and forged hope in communities.

Brought from Puerto Rico to the state of California at the young age of 8 years old, to say Damire Major faced a culture shock is to say the least but with this change from being on the Island to the States she learned how to adapt to her surroundings, learned to speak english and set out to become a successful entrepreneur ranging from the entertainment industry to being a Vegas Mogul in her current community where she resides in Las Vegas Nevada.

Heather Marianna, CEO of Heather Marianna LLC, is the driving force behind Beauty Kitchen, a luxury skincare brand renowned for its natural, cruelty-free products. With her start as a YouTube beauty expert, Heather launched Beauty Brand Coaching, offering personalized mentorship on brand development, media exposure, and white-label products. Featured in Forbes, E! News, and over 100 TV segments, Heather also curates high-profile events, such as her Harvest and Enchant Celebrity Gifting Lounge during the Primetime Emmys and Oscars week, elevating the gifting experience for media, celebrities, and VIPs and offering major exposure for brands and companies.

Everything in it’s time.

Born in California, Jennifer Hass is a survivor of an abusive upbringing. Today, she is a mother, an author, and an entrepreneur. Jennifer is deeply involved with her community thru her church, business and non profit, dedicating her time to encouraging her fellow survivors.

When she’s not working or writing, she enjoys swimming, surfing, playing with her dogs, hiking, and spending quality time with family and friends. With the publication of her first book, she is riding a wave of speaking events and exploring new ways to support others.

Jo Castello, born and raised in Northern Nevada, holds a master’s degree in criminal justice. As a dedicated parent of two, Jo skillfully balances family life with a successful career, ensuring that both personal and professional responsibilities are met with equal commitment.

With a solid background in sales, Jo has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. Over the years, Jo has built a reputation for reliability and dedication in the sales industry. Just over a year ago, Jo took the entrepreneurial leap to open their fi rst business, showcasing a drive for innovation and resilience in the face of challenges.

Jo’s journey is marked by a blend of professional success and community involvement. Their path refl ects a deep dedication to fostering strong connections and contributing positively to the community while continuously striving for personal and professional growth.

Hello There World!

I’m excited, terrified and inspired all rolled up into one huge, magnificent mass of positivity infused humanness! From an introverted, 89 lb. crack-induced, hot mess of a human being to a “Warrior4All Life” to an extrovert filled with compassion for humanity and the plights of a variety of life journeys. I am who I am because I’m not someone else. For this I am grateful. 

While you figure that part out; here’s a few highlights of what fuels my passion for humanity as a whole.

I’ve worked tirelessly within at-risk populations over 24 years by serving as a “stealth mode community advocate” which has included:  Enhancing lives within my community with resources, donations and referrals to assist with getting their lives back on track. There has been a dire and ongoing need for food, shelter and clothing for the homeless, providing alternative life skills training and advocacy to assist those with substance use disorders and mental health issues, ensuring individuals affected by domestic violence and crimes have a voice and shoring up individuals and families to become the healthiest members of our communities they can be under any given set of circumstances. 

Former Executive Director of Family Services for a nonprofit homeless shelter; San Joaquin County Court Liaison Recognition; Co-Author and birth mother of “Ownership Life Skills Training” taught by my best friend within a criminal rehabilitation setting for the past 20 years; Substance Abuse Counselor (CCAPP Certified-CADC-I); Current Substance Abuse Program Supervisor at San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services. Public speaker for at-risk populations across the realm of humanity and spreading my Queen Wings within this magnificent work. 

We are not broken and not all things broken remain so. Fix it, even if it means starting with self. This is who I am at my very core. I was born in “The Quarters” in Sugar Land, Texas and raised by the good, bad and the ugly of my life experiences. Who knows where the next chapter leads. There’s always a next chapter. 

Originally from a small town in Mississippi, Katie Meadows made the move to Las Vegas in 2003 with a vision to make a meaningful impact in real estate. As the founder of Meadows Home Team, a  real estate company specializing in residential properties, Katie Meadows leverages years of industry expertise to guide clients through the buying and selling of homes.

A distinguished leader in the business community, Katie Meadows serves as the Vice President of the Entrepreneurs Club of the Women’s Chamber of Commerce. In this role, she champions the growth and success of female entrepreneurs, fostering a supportive network and driving initiatives that empower women in business.

Recently accepted into the Leadership Academy of Nevada for the Realtor Association, Katie  is dedicated to advancing leadership standards and innovation within the real estate industry, reflecting her ongoing commitment to excellence. Outside of Katie’ professional pursuit and fitness enthusiast. Balancing her busy schedule with regular workouts and a love for reading, She finds inspiration and enrichment that positively impacts both personal and professional life.

For expert real estate advice or entrepreneurial guidance, contact Katie !

Over years of serving crime survivors and incarcerated individuals in the American criminal justice system, Kendra discovered her advocacy was most effective and rewarding when integrated by Yogacara principles. The profound transformations she witnessed in her clients inspired her to examine the connection between mental and physical health, and she strives to improve access to mindfulness practices, particularly within underrepresented communities.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Kendra volunteers at a Buddhist monastery, where she coordinates a meditation course. Her debut memoir chapter, “Unto Shore,” explores her mother’s illness as a reflection of trauma and presents the way she confronted this affliction in someone who saw trauma as a taboo subject.

Lisbet Perez turns her personal experience with domestic violence into a powerful force for change, empowering fellow survivors and advocating for immigrant women and families. Through her advocacy and public speaking, she challenges systems and agencies to develop programs that are inclusive, diverse, and guided by the insights of survivors.

My name is Misti Harrelson, I have been an advocate for victims of crime for over 15 years.  As a survivor of violent crime, I successfully escaped a10 year abusive relationship that left me blind in my right eye, a broken back, fractured faceplate; and many other mental and emotional unfortunate daily reminders of the abuse I endured. My personal trauma and pain transformed into a passion for instilling hope and providing support to others who want a life free from violence. After escaping my abusive relationship, I embarked on a healing journey towards self-reliance, liberation, and restoration of hope. My path began with rigorous individual and group therapy sessions while discovering who I really am. I was determined to complete my education earning my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with honors from Cal State East Bay in 2.5 years. I am currently completing a Master’s degree in Public Administration, and I am excited to share that I am due to graduate with honors in May of 2025.

I define myself first as a mom, and then a public speaker, educator, life coach, author, healer, protector and Warrior.

I am active in local communities, State and National agencies by providing education, outreach, public speaking and training on issues surrounding crime and violence. I present to large audiences of law enforcement, judiciary, government and legal agencies, churches, survivors, perpetrators of violence and various other community-based organizations about my personal experience and how others can safely support survivors and perpetrators of violence through their healing journey. I currently partner with National and State agencies to champion for public safety by working with legislation and policy, also providing victim-based assistance and resources with ICAN and CVAA. As well as I am the co-chair for the Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Committee with California District Attorney Association for Restorative Justice. I am the Executive Director of Ever After Foundation, https://everafter.foundation/ where we help establish survivors in the entrepreneurs and business industry. Lastly, within my own non-profit, I work both with victims and perpetrators to end societal violence and restore hope, while Healing Hurt Humans. https://healinghurthumans.com/ . Together we have partnered to form a powerful alliance to make generational changes with our clients.

Dr. Shawna Turner resides in north Texas where she owns and operates a successful chiropractic business. Animals are her primary focus and passion.

Growing up in a ranching family, Shawna fell in love with horses at a young age. Their majestic presence enamored Shawna. She felt a deep, safe connection when she was around horses. She discovered their innate ability to bring peace and healing.

After being sworn to silence by her child molester at the ages of 4-6, survival became her way of life. Later when the love of her life sustained a traumatic brain injury in a motor vehicle accident, her resilience would once again be put to the test.

It was her faith in God and love for animals that carried Shawna through trauma and tragedy. She is not just a survivor, she is a thriver.

I have always had a passion for writing ever since i learned how to spell.  I love writing poetry & collecting poetry books. I have a huge love for animals so I work at a training facility for dogs as their agility trainer/ kennel manager. I also come from a huge family who love spending time together. If I’m not working or writing, it’s making new memories with friends & family.

Theresa Hebert-Reyes is a certified domestic violence advocate.  She has been empowering and speaking to women at group homes and churches around the Bay Area since 2005.  She was the Director of the children’s Junior department for fourteen years at the Union City Apostolic Church. She has taught youth at summer camps for 14 years. She is a John Maxwell Leadership certified public speaker. As well as Patent and Trademark paralegal. She is the author of many children’s lessons and is writing a faith building book, soon to be published.  She is mom to many and grandma to many more

Tiffany Winn is a community health worker who uses her expertise and compassion to strongly advocate for those in need. She is a business owner, a passionate speaker, a life coach, and a servant of Yahshua, who pulls hearts out of the darkeness and into the light through His word. She is known for her witty remarks, forthright and unwavering committement, and a contagious smile. She suffered much hardship as a youth growing up in West Las Vegas Nevada, an impoverished area overrun by drug use & drug dealers, a disproportionate number of single parent homes, and an area of extreme health disparity. As a product of this environment. Tiffany was desperate to get out and through His grace and mercy was able to do so. But she has vowed to return to help others to reclaim and recover what was stolen from so many forced to live in those types of areas worldwide. She makes zero apologies for her passion and compassion for humanity! “Love Still Winns” is her motto.