Join us at the Pineapple Pride Cabaret 2024

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Tuesday · June 18th · 9PM-12AM

Micky’s | 8857 Santa Monica Blvd | West Hollywood

We invite you to join us at this star-studded soiree where you’ll see your favorite adult industry personalities and reality television stars coming together to celebrate Pride and raise money for PineappleSupport.org.

Hosted by Morgan McMichaels (Ru Paul’s Drag Race All Stars), Sister Roma (Falcon | NakedSword Creative Director and media personality), Marc MacNamara (award-winning Falcon | NakedSword filmmaker), and featuring music from DJ Ray Rhodes, the 2024 Pineapple Pride Cabaret promises a night that’s packed with everything from comedy to drag to live vocals.

“Pineapple Support has a proven track record and an admirable history of providing stigma-free, around-the-clock mental health services to adult performers in need of free and subsidized care. We are deeply grateful to Tim Valenti and the Falcon | NakedSword team for their unwavering support and for creating what is fast becoming the must-attend event of the year,” says Leya Tanit, founder and CEO of Pineapple Support.
“The 2024 Pride Cabaret is not just a celebration of talent, but also a powerful testament to the strength of the LGBTQ+ community, especially during Pride Month. Standing together and supporting each other is at the heart of what we do. We are honored to be part of this incredible event and thankful to everyone who helps make this tradition happen.”
For more info click HERE

Parenting as an Adult Industry Professional: Navigating Stigma and Strengthening Bonds

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Parenting is a complex and challenging role that requires love, patience, and resilience.

For sex workers who are parents, these challenges are often compounded by societal stigma, legal issues, and the need for discretion. However, many adult industry professionals manage to navigate these obstacles with grace, ensuring their children grow up in nurturing and supportive environments. This blog explores the unique experiences of parents, who are also adult industry professionals, highlighting the realities they face and the strategies they employ to balance their profession with their caregiving responsibilities.

Understanding the Challenges

Sex workers who are parents often face a unique set of challenges, including:

Stigma and Judgment: Society often views sex work through a lens of moral judgment and prejudice, leading to widespread discrimination. This stigma can affect every aspect of a sex worker’s life, from social interactions to employment opportunities in other fields. The judgment often extends to their children, who may face bullying or exclusion due to their parent’s profession.

Secrecy and Safety: Maintaining confidentiality about their profession is crucial for many, to protect themselves and their families from harm or social ostracism. This secrecy can create a barrier between parents and their children, making it challenging to foster open and honest relationships.

Legal Concerns: In many places across the world, sex work is criminalized, creating significant legal risks. These legal ramifications can significantly disrupt family stability. Navigating a legal system that repeatedly discriminates against sex workers can be daunting and requires careful planning and awareness.

Emotional Labor: Balancing the emotional demands of work within the adult industry and the emotional needs of parenting can be exhausting. The dual roles require a significant amount of emotional labor and compartmentalization, which can take a toll on the mental health of parents.

 

Strategies for Navigating Parenthood

Despite the challenges, many adult industry professionals find ways to thrive as parents. Here are some strategies they employ:

Building a Support Network: Creating a reliable support system is crucial. This network can include friends, family, and other industry professionals who understand the unique challenges they face. Support groups specifically for sex worker parents can offer a safe space to share experiences and advice, reducing feelings of isolation and providing practical help.

Education and Advocacy: Educating themselves and their children about sex work can demystify the profession and reduce internalized stigma. This involves age-appropriate discussions with their children to foster understanding and acceptance. Advocacy for sex worker rights can also create broader societal change, making it safer and more acceptable for adult industry professionals to be open about their careers.

Open Communication: Maintaining open, age-appropriate honesty with children about their profession can foster trust and reduce feelings of secrecy. Many adult industry professionals choose to explain their job in terms children can understand, emphasizing safety, consent, and the importance of respecting others’ choices. This transparency can help children feel more secure and less confused about their parents’ work.

Legal Precautions: Understanding the legal landscape and taking proactive steps to protect their rights as parents is essential. This might involve consulting with legal professionals who specialize in sex worker rights and family law. Having a clear legal strategy can help mitigate risks related to custody and other legal challenges.

Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care is crucial for managing the stress of dual roles. This can include therapy, mindfulness practices, and setting boundaries to ensure they have time to recharge. Self-care enables parents to maintain their emotional well-being, which is essential for providing stable and loving care to their children.

 

Strengthening the Parent-Child Bond

Despite the challenges, the bond between parents and their children can be incredibly strong. Many sex workers bring unique strengths to their parenting:

Resilience and Adaptability: The resilience required to navigate the challenges of sex work can translate into parenting. Parents often model adaptability and perseverance for their children, demonstrating how to overcome adversity and remain steadfast in the face of challenges.

Empathy and Understanding: The experience of facing stigma can make parents more empathetic and understanding. They often instill these values in their children, fostering a compassionate and accepting family environment. This empathy extends to teaching children to be non-judgmental and supportive of others.

Advocacy Skills: Many sex worker parents are skilled advocates, both for themselves and for broader social change. These advocacy skills can empower their children to stand up for themselves and others, teaching them the importance of fighting for their rights and the rights of others.

 

Parenting as an adult industry professional involves navigating a complex web of challenges, but it also offers unique opportunities for personal growth and family bonding. By building supportive networks, advocating for their rights, and fostering open communication with their children, sex worker parents create loving and stable homes.

It’s essential to recognize and respect the resilience and dedication these parents bring to their roles, challenging societal stigma and working towards a more inclusive and understanding world. Through their strength and advocacy, parents not only provide for their families but also contribute to the broader fight for acceptance and equality.

 

If you want like-minded people to talk to, why not join one of our Support Groups. You can sign up here.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

Confessions of a Millennial Step-mom

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Zelena van der Leeden, MC, CDC® and Jake W. Purdy, PMP, CDC® are the Co-founders of Divorce Management, the first multi-lingual divorce coaching firm in North America. Divorce Management operates on a “pay what you can” model offering certified Divorce Coaching and Divorce Transition and Recovery Coaching. Further details can be found on their website.

 

When I was little, my biggest fear was that my mom would die and that my dad would remarry an evil woman: I did not want to end up like Cinderella or Snow White! I hated Meredith from the Parent Trap and I cried myself to sleep for days after watching Stepmom (both released in 1998 when I was 13). My parents stayed together until I was a young adult, so I never had a wicked stepmom, but I did become one…

I got married young and had the perfect Disney family for a while, but dad and I separated when my babies were 2 and 4. Being a single parent was the most difficult and enriching experience of my life. I bonded deeply with my children and I will forever cherish the times when it was just the three of us. When the kids were with dad, I traveled as much as I could and I spent a lot of time alone. It was during this time when I figured out who I really was and what I truly wanted out of life.

I did not plan to meet my fiancé and business partner while going through a divorce (he was going through one too!), but I believe we were meant to be together. We did not want to introduce ourselves to our respective children, but on a rainy day, we bumped into each other at the only indoor play structure in the neighborhood. We told the kids we were friends and they played together for hours (they were 4, 5, 6 and 7 at the time).

Motherhood is a never ending job and we learn to adapt our parenting tactics as we all grow. I have been a step-mom for over 2 years and it has been a fun and wild ride! When you parent your own children, you allow yourself to fully express your emotions, but when you are a step-mom, you second-guess your every move: am I too strict? Too lenient? Will they think I am trying to replace their mom? What should they call me?

I always consult with experts when I have doubts and we were told to be our authentic selves and to follow the children’s lead. Children respond to love and that is what we did. We never forced them to call us by a specific name or title and we treat them all the same way. They also look alike, so when we go out people think they are biological siblings and the kids don’t like it when we correct them, so we just play pretend during short interactions. They love to pretend they are two sets of twins when strangers start asking too many questions and we always share a good laugh afterwards.

My biological kids also have a step-mom and they love her. She loves doing crafts and baking, (two things I suck at), which is why I love the term “bonus mom”. Movies have turned most step-moms into villains or slutty milfs, but to me, we are just a bit of extra love and attention. Who wouldn’t want that for their kids? And yes, I am aware that there are some evil step-parents out there, but there are also abusive and neglectful biological parents. Most of humanity is good, so let’s not focus on the few that give a bad rep to the rest of us.

There is no competition, there is no replacement. If you are a step-parent and you truly love your step-children, tell them. Spend time bonding with them and don’t be afraid to discipline them, but stay true to yourself. Don’t try hard! Be patient and kind and time will take care of the rest.

 

Written by: Zelena van der Leeden, co-founder of Divorce Management

© Divorce Management 2024

 

Apply for subsidized therapy with Pineapple Support here.

Photo by Kylo on Unsplash

Pineapple Support To Attend XBIZ Miami, Host Exclusive Events for Performers

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Pineapple Support, the adult industry’s leading mental health non-profit, will attend XBIZ Miami in Florida from May 13th to 16th. During the conference, the organization will host three events designed to create a safe space for performers to relax.

The events include an ‘80s-themed aerobics workout and a beachside support session where performers can speak with Pineapple Support therapist Wendy Haggerty. The organization will also sponsor a ‘Sober Lounge’, an alcohol-free space where performers can enjoy a sound bath, reiki, and discussions held by Pineapple Support therapist Steven Mollura.

Pineapple Support Presents: ’80s-Themed Aerobics, sponsored by fanshop.app
Tuesday, May 14th and 15th, from 9:00am to 10:00am (Location: Gallery Room)

Pineapple Support Presents: Beachside Support Session, presented by Wendy Haggerty
Tuesday, May 14th and 15th, from 5:00pm to 6:00pm (Location: Hotel Beach)

Sober Lounge Sanctuary, sponsored by Pineapple Support and APClips
Tuesday, May 14th, from 6:00pm to 7:30pm (Location: Gallery Room)

Pineapple Support was founded by British performer Leya Tanit in 2018, after a string of losses in the adult industry from depression and other mental illnesses. The organization, a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization in the United States, has connected over 14,000 adult performers to mental health services, including free and low-cost therapy, counseling, and emotional support.

“We’re excited to connect with performers during the show and provide them with exclusive, safe, and supportive spaces where they can escape and relax during the show,” says Tanit. “We wanted to create opportunities for performers to get away from the hustle and bustle of the conference and have the opportunity to connect with one of our trained therapists, as well as with other performers. Join us to recharge, relax, and enjoy some ‘you’ time.”

To view the full schedule of the XBIZ Miami conference, visit https://www.xbizmiami.com. To learn more about becoming a sponsor of Pineapple Support, please visit https://pineapplesupport.org/sponsorship. Details about additional ways to support the organization as a company or individual can be found by visiting https://pineapplesupport.org.

High Society Models Joins Pineapple Support As Supporter-Level Sponsor

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Pineapple Support, the adult industry’s leading mental health nonprofit, is pleased to welcome High Society Models as a sponsor at the supporter level. The webcam model agency joins over sixty adult businesses and organizations in committing funds and resources to the organization.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Pineapple Support to promote mental wellness within our industry and beyond,” says Emily Kathleen, Agent and Owner of High Society Models. “It is important to us that all our models have access to the resources and support they need to maintain good mental health.”

Pineapple Support was founded by performer Leya Tanit in 2018, after a string of losses in the adult industry from depression and other mental illnesses. The organization, a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization in the United States, has connected over 14,000 adult performers to mental health services, including free and low-cost therapy, counseling, and emotional support.

“We are thrilled to welcome High Society Models as the latest sponsor of Pineapple Support,” says Tanit. “Their commitment to mental health helps us continue to provide accessible and specialized support to the adult industry. Together, we look forward to enhancing the services available to performers, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive both on and off camera.”

To learn more about becoming a sponsor of Pineapple Support, please visit https://pineapplesupport.org/sponsorship. Details about additional ways to support, as a company or individual, can be found on the organization’s website https://pineapplesupport.org

The Rhythmic Remedy: Why Movement and Dance are Stress Relievers

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From twirling to busting a move, there’s a lot more to dancing than just having fun.

In fact, the incorporation of movement and dance is scientifically supported as a fantastic stress reliever! Here’s why rhythmic physical activity, or “shaking it off” on the dance floor can be your ticket to a stress-free zone.

The Brain’s Happy Dance:

When you dance, your brain does a happy dance too! Engaging in physical activities like dancing releases endorphins, the chemicals in your brain responsible for making you feel good and contributing to a state of enhanced well-being. According to a study published in the *American Journal of Dance Therapy*, dancing can significantly reduce cortisol levels, the notorious stress hormone. So, next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, why not swap your worries for some salsa steps? Or, keep it simple and put on your favourite tune and dance like no one is watching.

Mindful Movement:

Ever heard of mindful dancing? It’s like meditation in motion. When you move your body or dance, you’re encouraged to be fully present in the moment. By directing attention to movement patterns and somatic sensations, practitioners cultivate a heightened state of present-moment awareness.  This focus on movement and breath can help calm your mind and  reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Emotional Expression:

Dance is an incredible form of self-expression. Whether you’re popping and locking or gracefully gliding across the floor, dancing allows you to release pent-up emotions and express yourself freely. This emotional release can be incredibly cathartic, helping to alleviate stress and tension. Plus, it’s a lot more fun than bottling up your feelings!

Social Connection:

Let’s not forget about the social aspect of dancing. Whether you’re tearing up the dance floor with friends or joining a dance class, dancing is a fantastic way to connect with others. Social support and interconnectedness is essential for combating stress, and what better way to bond than over a shared love of movement?

Physical Benefits:

Last but not least, let’s talk about the physical benefits of dancing. Not only does it get your heart pumping and your blood flowing, but it also helps to release muscle tension built up from stress. Plus, regular dancing can improve flexibility, balance, and overall physical fitness, leaving you feeling strong, energized, and ready to take on the world.

 

So, there you have it, folks – the rhythmic remedy for stress relief!

Next time life throws a curveball your way, just remember to dance it out. Whether through brain chemistry regulation, mindfulness integration, emotive expression, socio-interactive dynamics, or physiological fitness improvement, dance epitomizes a holistic approach to stress management.

 

If you feel like you need support, you can apply for subsidized therapy with Pineapple Support here.

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

Pineapple Support To Host Anxiety Management Discussion at GRABBYS Europe

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Pineapple Support, the adult industry’s leading mental health non-profit, will attend the GRABBYS Europe in Torremolinos, Spain this week. The organization will host an open discussion around strategies for managing anxiety and self-criticism, led by Pineapple Support therapist Shelly.

“It’s an absolute pleasure to be welcoming Pineapple Support back to GRABBYS Europe for the third year running,” says Ryan James, GRABBYS Sponsorship Coordinator. “The work they do is vastly important to our industry and it means the world to us that we can support them.”

The discussion will take place on Friday, April 26th at 2:30PM (CEST) in the Quiet Lounge of the event venue, Hotel Ritual.

“In this safe and confidential space, participants will explore effective strategies for managing anxiety and silencing their inner critic amidst the unique challenges of the industry,” says Shelly. “Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and thrive in a community dedicated to mental wellness and personal growth.”

Pineapple Support was founded by performer Leya Tanit in 2018, after a string of losses in the adult industry from depression and other mental illnesses. The organization, a qualified 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization in the United States, has connected over 14,000 adult performers to mental health services, including free and low-cost therapy, counseling, and emotional support.

“Through shared experiences and professional guidance, attendees will discover practical tools to cultivate resilience, promote self-care, and foster a healthier relationship with themselves and their work,” says Tanit. “We’re looking forward to seeing you all at this empowering, open discussion during GRABBYS Europe.”

To view the full schedule of GRABBYS Europe, visit https://grabbyseurope.com/. To learn more about becoming a sponsor of Pineapple Support, please visit https://pineapplesupport.org/sponsorship. Details about additional ways to support the organization as a company or individual can be found by visiting https://pineapplesupport.org.

Pineapple Support Celebrates 6th Anniversary with Pride and Resolve

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Pineapple Support, the adult industry’s leading mental health nonprofit, is celebrating its sixth anniversary with significant milestones. Pineapple Support, which was founded in April 2018, has provided more than $1.5M in therapy, support services, and resources to adult workers, reaching over 14,000 performers and creators.

“Looking back six years later, the number of lives we’ve touched is both moving and sobering,” says Leya Tanit, founder and CEO of Pineapple Support. “We still have a long way to go, but we’re ever closer to ensuring that no performer feels like they have to struggle alone.”

In the last year, the organization has provided online therapy services to over 3100 adult performers and workshops to over a thousand. Pineapple Support is processing nearly 200 support requests per month, with another thousand performers using their Emotional Support text service.

The organization is also one of the most efficient non-profits in the US. Since 2020, an average of 79% of all donations have gone directly to therapy and program costs. Pineapple Support now has nearly 400 mental health professionals registered, providing care across five continents and in 23 languages, as well as more than 750 volunteer listeners on their text support.

“The need is there and the need is great,” says Tanit. “However, with current funding constraints, we’re at maximum capacity and have a waiting list of over 160 performers. These are people who are in real need of someone to talk to. I’m so thankful to those who have supported this critical work, but there’s so much more we can do as an industry.”

A 2023 mental health survey conducted by Pineapple Support provided insight into the needs of the community. More than 700 creators responded, with 60% reporting that they feel stigmatized due to their work in the industry and 43% saying the industry needed to provide additional support for their mental health.

“We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished and are working hard to launch more initiatives, support groups, webinars, events, and campaigns over the coming months. I hope more people will join us in building a safer, healthier, more supportive industry,” says Tanit. “We must continue to work together to provide a safe and reliable place for our community to be supported.”

To learn more about becoming a sponsor of Pineapple Support, please visit Pineapple Support Sponsorship. As a company or individual, details about additional ways to support the organization can be found by visiting Pineapple Support.

Dealing with Stress and Anxiety: What to Look for and How to Cope

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Dealing with stress and anxiety is something that we all go through. Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the signs, and learn some useful coping strategies.

Identifying the Signs:

In our unique industry, stress and anxiety can manifest in various ways. Just like any other artists, content creators have emotional, behavioral, and physical signs that shouldn’t be ignored. Let’s take a closer look at the signals that might resonate with those in the adult content creation realm.

Emotional Signs:

– Feeling irritable
– Overwhelmed
– Anxious, nervous, or worried
– Racing thoughts and difficulty switching off
– Disinterest in usually pleasurable activities
– Feeling lonely and isolated

Behavioral Signs:

– Difficulty in decision-making
– Avoidance behavior
– Nail-biting or skin picking
– Changes in appetite
– Self-medicating with substances
– Restlessness, difficulty concentrating
– Frequent tearfulness

Physical Signs:

– Unusual breathing or hyperventilating
– Panic or anxiety attacks
– Blurred vision, sore eyes
– Changes in libido
– Fatigue or lethargy
– Teeth grinding or jaw clenching
– Headaches or migraines
– Feeling sick, dizzy, or lightheaded

 

Coping Strategies for everyday life:

Now that we’ve identified the signs of stress and anxiety, let’s talk about some tailored coping strategies for adult content creators. These are your reliable allies, always ready to support you whenever life gets challenging.

1. Self-Care:

Start with self-care basics. A nutritious diet, ample sleep, and minimizing substances like smoking and alcohol can be transformative. Incorporate exercise into your routine – it’s not just beneficial for your physical health but also a great stress-reliever. Even a simple walk can clear the mind and boost those feel-good endorphins.

2. Unapologetic Self-Care:

Yes, so important we’ve listed it twice! Take unapologetic breaks for yourself. Whether it’s a long soak in the bath or a cozy duvet day with your favorite shows, prioritize self-indulgence when stress knocks at your door. Even the simplest things can feel therapeutic.

3. Connect with Your Community:

Your support network within the industry is priceless. Whether it’s fellow creators, industry friends, or mentors, don’t hesitate to share your concerns. Connecting with those who understand the unique challenges of the industry can be immensely comforting. Talking about your experiences can make you feel lighter.

4. Creative Expression Release:

Sometimes, you just need a good release. Express your stress through your work or channel it into physical activities like dancing, yoga, or even a fitness class. Use your creativity as a tool for mental liberation.

5. Mindful Breaks:

Pause and breathe. Incorporate mindfulness into your routine to focus on your internal experience rather than external distractions. Being non-judgmental about your feelings can help make sense of challenges.

6. Understanding What’s in Your Control:

Acknowledge what you can and cannot control in your creative journey. Understand your power and the realistic impact you can have on your circumstances. Organize your projects, make lists, and break down hurdles into manageable tasks.

You are one of a kind and your experiences with stress and anxiety are just as unique

In the world of adult content creation, stress and anxiety can be part of the creative process. Use this checklist to regularly assess your mental well-being. Regular self-assessment is the key to maintaining a healthy mental balance. Here’s to identifying, acknowledging, and conquering stress with creativity and resilience!

If you feel like you need support, you can apply for subsidized therapy with Pineapple Support here.

 

Photo by nikko macaspac on Unsplash

Why Talking About Yourself is as Good as Sex

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Ever wondered why we enjoy talking about ourselves so much?

Turns out, it’s wired into our brains! The statement “talking about yourself is as good as sex” may be perceived as an exaggeration or a metaphorical expression rather than a literal comparison, but studies from Harvard University show that talking about ourselves activates the same pleasure centers in our brains as eating delicious food or having sex. Yep, sharing our stories literally gives us a natural high!

But there’s more to it than just feeling good. Psychologists say that sharing our personal experiences helps us understand our own lives better and strengthens our connections with others. According to Dr. James W. Pennebaker, an expert in expressive writing, putting our feelings into words can boost self-awareness, lower stress, and improve relationships.

So, what happens when we clam up and keep our stories to ourselves?

Well, it’s not great for our mental health. Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that holding back our emotions can lead to more stress and lower well-being. In other words, bottling up our feelings isn’t doing us any favors.

But when we open up and share our stories with others, something magical happens:

1. **Validation and Connection:** When you share personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings with others, it can lead to a sense of validation and connection. Being heard and understood by someone else can be deeply fulfilling, fostering a sense of intimacy and camaraderie.

2. **Self-Expression:** Talking about yourself allows you to express your identity, values, and beliefs. It provides an opportunity for self-reflection and self-discovery, enabling you to better understand who you are and what matters to you.

3. **Empowerment:** Sharing your experiences and perspectives can be empowering, as it allows you to assert your voice and assert your agency in shaping conversations and relationships. It can build confidence and self-esteem, enhancing your sense of autonomy and control.

4. **Catharsis:** Discussing personal matters can serve as a form of emotional release and catharsis. Opening up about challenges, triumphs, and emotions can help you process and cope with difficult experiences, leading to a sense of relief and emotional well-being.

5. **Social Bonding:** Conversations about oneself often occur within the context of social interactions and relationships. Sharing personal stories and anecdotes can strengthen bonds with others, fostering a sense of belonging and support within social networks.

 

Studies have shown that having meaningful conversations about ourselves can make us happier and more satisfied. It’s like giving ourselves a little emotional boost every time we share a piece of our lives with someone else.

Sharing stories isn’t just about talking; it’s also about listening.

When we really tune in and show interest in other people’s experiences, we build trust and understanding. It’s like a beautiful dance of conversation that brings us closer together and makes our relationships stronger.

While the comparison between talking about oneself and sex might not be exactly like sex, it underscores the importance of meaningful communication and self-expression in human relationships and personal well-being. Both activities involve a deep sense of connection, intimacy, and satisfaction, albeit in different ways. Ultimately, engaging in authentic and meaningful conversations can contribute to a richer and more fulfilling life.

So, the next time you’re itching to share a story or two, go for it! Whether it’s over a beverage with a friend or a cozy chat by the fire, remember that sharing our stories is a special part of being human. Here’s to the joy of storytelling and the connections it brings into our lives. Cheers to you, dear readers, and may your stories always be heard and cherished!

 

If you want like-minded people to talk to, why not join one of our Support Groups. You can sign up here.