My name is Sheila Blackwell — I am an artist, soloist, promoter, and most importantly, a survivor and a mother of five incredible adult children. Life has not always been easy, but I believe that purpose can be born from pain. Today, I’m reaching out to share a deeply meaningful project that emerged from a season of personal darkness and discovery: a series of community shows entitled "Our Stories."

"Our Stories" is more than just a performance — it is a movement. It is a live storytelling and performance event where members of our diverse community are invited to share their real-life experiences, many of whom are also artists who then perform after telling their stories. The atmosphere is raw, artistic, healing, and full of heart.

We launched our first show on March 11, and the response was overwhelming. The audience was moved to tears, laughter, and a profound sense of connection. The demand for more events has been loud and clear. People want to be seen. They want to heal. They want to tell their stories and be reminded they are not alone.

This project was born after I survived a devastating car accident — my car flipped three times, and I miraculously walked away. Just days earlier, I had lost my job. I found myself in a very dark place, questioning my existence. I cried out to God, “Why am I still here?” Then, I came across a video of Oprah sharing how to find your calling by discovering “what moves you.” That simple question changed everything.

What moves me… is people’s stories.

My talents — singing, theater, writing — are all extensions of a deeper mission: to create a safe and beautiful space where people can be vulnerable, artistic, and real. A space for healing. A space for hope. A space for community.

Healing through the arts is a powerful thing.