Living Proof: Stories of Survival, Healing, and Hope from The Friendship Clubhouse
At The Friendship Clubhouse, healing doesn’t happen in isolation — it happens in community. Each member who walks through our doors carries a story, a journey of resilience, and a will to overcome. Today, we share the testimonies of four incredible individuals — Tinkerbell, Luis, Wayne, and Greg — whose courage, growth, and faith shine a light on what’s possible when you refuse to give up on yourself.
🌟 Tinkerbell’s Testimony: “I Needed to Let Myself Heal”
“My name is Tinkerbell and I am an older sister.
My journey with trauma began when my little sister was taken away from home by Children Services. That moment broke something inside me. I felt depressed, anxious, and completely lost without her.
For a long time, I isolated. I stayed in my room all day, only coming out for food or the bathroom. But deep down, I knew that if I wanted to truly heal, I had to start talking to someone — so I found a therapist. One of the biggest turning points in my journey was expressing myself through therapy and creative activities. That’s when I discovered how much pain I was holding in, and how much I needed to let go.
I realized that isolating myself wasn’t helping me grow — it was holding me back. I started exploring new ways to cope: Art Expression, Breathing Exercises, and most importantly, The Friendship Clubhouse. I also found strength in reading Bible verses and growing closer to God.
Today, I am proud of myself for maintaining relationships with my providers, staying consistent with my medications, and building friendships here at the Clubhouse. To anyone struggling, I want to say: Go do something. Go to the library, visit the Clubhouse, or find a hobby. Healing isn’t a straight line, but it is possible.
I am living proof that healing can happen — and that it’s not your fault.”
✨ Luis’ Testimony: “You Can Survive the Darkest Days”
“My name is Luis and I am a survivor.
My trauma journey started early — I was just three years old. I grew up in a foster home because of the abuse I experienced. That time in my life left me feeling sad, scared, hopeless, and unwanted. I struggled with depression, PTSD, and feelings of neglect.
For years, I coped by praying and crying — and while that helped a little, I didn’t start receiving real support for my depression until I was in my 30s. One of the biggest turning points for me was never letting go of God and realizing that He has a purpose for my life. I held on to faith, and that gave me the strength to keep going.
My sister and my faith played huge roles in my healing. They reminded me that I’m not alone, and that my story matters. Looking back, I know now that I am a survivor — and I’m blessed to be where I am today.
To anyone struggling: All of this? It’s a test. But you are not alone. Healing is not a straight path, but it’s possible.
I am living proof that you can walk through the darkest days and survive them — with the help of God.”
💬 Wayne’s Testimony: “Healing Takes Steps, But It’s Worth It”
“My name is Wayne and I am a survivor and friend.
My journey with trauma began when my mother passed away 10 years ago on Easter Sunday. During that time I felt sad, alone, and I cried a lot. I struggled with depression after the loss of my mother. For a long time, I coped by listening to music and being alone but I soon realized that in order to truly heal, I needed to speak to a doctor about how I was feeling.
One of the biggest turning points in my healing journey was finally coping with the depression and coming to The Friendship Clubhouse. I discovered that I felt better around friends and I was actually making new friends as well. Some of the things that helped me through my healing process were staying active. I also found strength in coming to the clubhouse.
Looking back, I now realize that my mother is not here, but I am not alone. Today, I feel real good and happy, and I am proud of myself for coming to the Friendship Clubhouse and taking the steps to move forward.
To anyone who has lost someone, sorry for your loss, we can talk and I will listen. Healing is not a straight path, but it is possible.
I am living proof that you can find friends. It starts with me… Let there be peace on Earth.”
💪 Greg’s Testimony: “There Are People Who Really Care”
“My name is Greg and I am a member of The Friendship Clubhouse for 2 ½ years.
My journey with trauma began when I was a child. Things were very hard and I had no one to turn to. During that time, I felt hopeless and I struggled with depression.
For a long time, I coped by trying to find someone to talk to, but it was hard to find someone I could trust. I soon realized that in order to truly heal, I needed to find that person — someone I could open up to, like a therapist who would listen without judgment.
One of the biggest turning points in my healing journey was finally being able to talk it out and stop holding in the pain. I discovered that when I held everything inside, it only made things worse.
Some of the things that helped me through my healing process were being around people who really care about me and spending time with friends. I also found strength by changing my mindset — replacing negative thoughts with more positive ones.
Today, I feel so much better because I’m surrounded by people who truly care. I’m proud of myself for being able to talk about things.
To anyone who is struggling, I want to say: Please get some help. Don’t try to do it alone. Let someone help you. Don’t give up.
I am living proof that you just need to avoid the potholes in life. There are people out there who really care about you and want to help.”
❤️ From the Heart of the Clubhouse
These stories represent just a glimpse of the strength that lives within our members. Whether it’s through art, conversation, spirituality, or simple acts of community, healing is nurtured here every day.
If you’re hurting, come join us. Find your voice. Find your people. And most importantly, find your hope.
Because healing doesn’t have to happen alone — and at The Friendship Clubhouse, it never will.
