Meet Louise Leonard everyone knows me as Lady

We recently connected with Louise Leonard everyone knows me as Lady and have shared our conversation below.

Louise, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.

**Discovering Purpose Through Personal Tragedy: A Journey of Compassion**

The journey to finding one’s purpose is often shaped by life’s experiences, challenges, and unexpected turns. For me, the revelation of my first purpose came in the midst of profound personal tragedy and unwavering love.

When my son tragically passed away in 2003 at the age of a year and a half, after he strangled on the umbilical cord during birth, the lack of oxygen to his brain resulted in cerebral palsy. His struggles with cerebral palsy, inability to walk or talk, lack of a gag reflex, and reliance on tube feeding for nourishment marked a profound chapter in my life.

Despite the heartbreaking challenges, I made the decision to provide him with the best care possible, refusing to place him in a care facility. After his passing, I found myself adrift, unsure of where my life was headed. It wasn’t until years later when I stumbled upon a job opportunity at the county board of MRDD (now known as the county board of developmental disabilities) that everything began to fall into place.

In that role, working with individuals with developmental disabilities, a newfound passion ignited within me. It wasn’t until a decade after my son’s passing that I realized this calling was intricately linked to my personal experiences. Through caring for my son, I had unknowingly been preparing for a greater purpose – to advocate for and support individuals facing similar challenges.

This profound realization brought clarity and direction to my life. Working with the population of developmental disabilities became more than just a job; it became a calling, a way to honor my son’s memory and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

**Finding Redemption and a Second Purpose: Embracing Sobriety, Renewed Relationships, and Professional Growth**

My journey to discovering my second purpose in life has been a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of sobriety. Overcoming alcohol addiction was just the beginning of my path to redemption, as I navigated through mental health challenges and committed myself to personal and professional growth.

From the age of 18, I battled with alcoholism, finding solace in a liter of vodka every day during the pandemic while grappling with severe alcohol dependency. The pandemic exacerbated my struggles, plunging me into a cycle of anxiety and despair where thoughts of death consumed me daily. The simple act of brushing my teeth triggered fears of mouth cancer, adding to the mental anguish that held me captive.

The turning point came on February 10, 2021, when I pleaded with a higher power for relief from my physical pain in exchange for sobriety. Miraculously, the next day, the desire for alcohol vanished, setting me on a path of sobriety and self-discovery. With newfound clarity and determination, I embarked on a transformative journey towards redemption, mending broken relationships, and rediscovering my purpose in life.

After achieving sobriety, I was determined to further my education and make a positive impact in the field of social work. I pursued my second Associate of Applied Science degree, graduating on May 19, 2023, as a stepping stone towards my aspirations. The following summer, I continued my academic journey at Youngstown State University, working towards a Bachelor of Social Work degree.

On May 4, 2024, I proudly graduated with my Bachelor of Social Work, a significant milestone in my journey of personal growth and commitment to helping others. Concurrently, I pursued my LCDC certification, demonstrating my dedication to supporting individuals on their path to recovery. After passing the exam, I eagerly awaited the opportunity to apply for the LCDC III license.

On June 28, 2024, I received the life-changing news that my application for the LCDC III license was approved. This marked a new chapter in my life’s purpose, equipping me with the empathy and expertise to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with addiction and mental health challenges.

Looking ahead, I am excited to start the Master of Social Work (MSW) program in the fall, where I will deepen my understanding of mental health issues and enhance my ability to support individuals facing mental health challenges. Additionally, I am committed to pursuing the Licensed Social Worker (LSW) certification to specialize in working with individuals struggling with mental health illnesses. By obtaining the LSW certification, I aim to provide vital support, guidance, and counseling to those in need, ensuring that I can make a positive impact in their lives through empathy, expertise, and unwavering dedication.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

In reflecting on my life story, I have navigated challenges rooted in my mother’s addiction to crack and alcohol. Her substance abuse cast a shadow over my upbringing, characterized by verbal abuse and neglect. I vividly recall the hurtful words she directed at me, deeming me a mistake while describing my brother as a miracle.

During a particularly tumultuous period, both my brother and I were placed in separate foster homes for two years, a decision made to allow my mother the opportunity to address her addiction issues. However, upon our eventual return home, little had changed. Basic necessities like food and electricity remained scarce, overshadowed by my mother’s continued struggle with addiction.

Having personally witnessed the devastating impact of addiction, I held onto hope that my mother would overcome her challenges. Regrettably, I eventually found myself entangled in similar struggles, shedding light on the pervasive nature of addiction and its profound impact on individuals and families.

My lived experiences have cultivated a profound empathy and understanding of the intricacies surrounding mental health and addiction. It is this journey that fuels my aspiration to pursue a career as a mental health therapist, where I aim to offer support, empathy, and guidance to those grappling with comparable challenges. Drawing upon my personal narrative, I strive to assist individuals in navigating the complexities of addiction, trauma, and mental health issues, providing a source of hope and healing in their lives.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey, three qualities that have been instrumental for me are resilience, self-awareness, and recognizing the importance of seeking support. Here’s some advice for individuals who are early in their journey towards sobriety, taking into account my experience of not using traditional support groups or sponsors:

1. **Resilience**: Building resilience has been crucial for me in overcoming challenges and setbacks, especially on the path to sobriety. To enhance my resilience, I’ve focused on developing coping strategies, maintaining a positive mindset, and learning from past mistakes. I practice self-care, set realistic goals, and surround myself with a supportive network of friends, family, or professionals who can help me navigate difficult times and bounce back stronger.

2. **Self-awareness**: Self-awareness has played a vital role in my journey by helping me understand my triggers, emotions, and patterns of behavior related to drinking. To improve my self-awareness, I practice mindfulness, reflection, and honest introspection. I take the time to identify my reasons for drinking, acknowledge my strengths and weaknesses, and explore healthier coping mechanisms. Seeking feedback from trusted individuals has provided me with valuable insight into my behaviors and attitudes, fostering personal growth and self-discovery.

3. **Importance of seeking support**: While I have not utilized traditional support groups or sponsors, I recognize the value of seeking support in maintaining sobriety and overall well-being. It’s important to find sources of support that works for me, whether through trusted individuals, therapists, or other professionals. Building a strong support system has helped me stay accountable, receive practical advice, and feel less isolated on my journey towards sobriety.

For individuals who are embarking on their journey towards sobriety, I would emphasize that sobriety is a deeply personal and ongoing endeavor that demands unwavering dedication, continuous self-reflection, and a readiness to seek assistance when necessary. Celebrating every step of progress achieved, maintaining steadfast commitment to set goals, and consistently prioritizing both physical and emotional well-being are paramount as one navigates the path towards a rewarding, alcohol-free life.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?

The person who has been most helpful in helping me overcome challenges and build and develop the essential skills, qualities, or knowledge needed for success is my daughter. She has been a significant source of support and motivation for me in my journey to overcome addiction to alcohol. Despite facing personal challenges, she has been my cheerleader and a constant source of strength.

In addition to supporting me, I have also been there for her during difficult times, such as when she was dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts. Together, we sought professional help, and I supported her as she pursued a career working with children, particularly those with autism. She received her CDA and is a teacher assistant at a pre-K school, and her favorite population of children is kids with autism.

My daughter Ja’Niyah was born on June 26, 2005, and she graduated from high school at the age of 17. She started working at a pre-K school in East Cleveland after graduating with her high school diploma. Her passion for working with children, especially those with autism, is evident in her dedication to her work and her commitment to making a difference in their lives.

Her resilience, compassion, and enthusiasm for helping others have not only inspired me but have also taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and empathy. I am incredibly proud of her accomplishments and the impact she is making in the lives of children with autism. Our shared experiences and unwavering support for each other continue to shape our paths toward success and well-being. And once I got sober, I was able to recognize and address her struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts, further strengthening our bond and mutual support as we continue to navigate life’s challenges together.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Ms_soberissexy
• Facebook: Louise Leonard
• Other: TikTok. @msteamsobriety

Image Credits

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