The Power of Being Heard: A Client’s Journey of Healing with Verna Haywood
Healing from trauma, illness, or difficult life experiences often requires more than just medical treatment or quick fixes—it requires genuine connection, compassion, and a safe space where one can truly be heard. That’s exactly what Gower Preston, a Design & Branding Consultant, found when he worked with me during his journey of recovery after battling bowel cancer and going through personal hardships.
A Light in a Dark Time
When Gower and I first connected, he was navigating the aftermath of cancer treatment, the loss of a supportive relationship, and the heavy weight of clinical depression. After two and a half years of struggling with both mental and physical health challenges, Gower was feeling lost, alone, and unsure of how to move forward.
What started as an initial connection in an online business group soon became the beginning of a life-changing relationship. Gower’s words speak volumes about the power of truly being seen and heard. He said, “Verna radiated warmth and caring so I asked to exchange details…” It was this genuine care that created the foundation for our work together, even before our first session.
The Importance of Holding Space
One of the most profound aspects of our sessions was my ability to hold space for Gower. Often, when people are struggling, they feel like they don’t have a voice or that their struggles aren’t valid. The simple act of listening attentively and creating a safe environment for Gower to share his journey made a significant impact. As he shared, I didn’t just hear his words—I felt his pain, his hope, and his resilience.
He shared, “Verna listened to my story intently from everything that had been going on in my life over the ‘Cancer Years’ and further back into my childhood.” Through this listening, I was able to offer calm, compassion, and direction, which helped him find clarity and strength to move forward.
Healing Beyond the Physical
When we began working together, Gower was struggling with not only his health but his overall sense of direction in life. My role was to help him reconnect with his body, mind, and spirit through daily tools and practices that would help him build momentum again. One of the most rewarding aspects of our sessions was seeing how he began to regain his mental and physical well-being, piece by piece.
As Gower so beautifully put it, “Verna’s insight, wisdom, direction, and sense of love were invaluable to me… She gave me some tools to use on a daily basis and a momentum I had not felt in a long time.” That’s what true healing looks like—regaining momentum, confidence, and a sense of self-worth that extends far beyond the immediate challenges.
More Than Just a Client
In Gower’s testimonial, he emphasised that, unlike many professionals he had encountered, I made him feel truly cared for and held. “I wasn’t just another ‘case/patient/client’… something which I had felt with many professionals in the field over the years.” This is a sentiment I strive to create for all my clients—a relationship based on genuine care and support.
Gower’s experience reflects the deep value of empathy in coaching. It’s not just about giving advice; it’s about making someone feel seen, understood, and supported throughout their entire journey. That’s the power of wholistic/holistic coaching—it treats the person as a whole and supports them on every level: body, mind, and spirit.
The Lasting Impact of Healing
Gower’s final words say it all: “Verna made me feel truly ‘heard,’ genuinely cared for, and completely ‘held.’ I will always be very grateful to her for that.” That gratitude is mutual. It is always an honour to witness the transformation that occurs when someone feels truly supported and empowered to take their next steps in life.
Closing Thoughts
I am deeply grateful to Gower for sharing his story and allowing me to be a part of his healing journey. His words are a reminder of why I do what I do—helping people move from feeling stuck and alone to rediscovering their strength, resilience, and power. If you’re struggling with your own journey and need someone who will truly listen and help guide you forward, I invite you to reach out and begin your own journey of transformation.
At The Unstoppable Life, we work together as partners in success. Healing happens when we embrace not only insight but action. With the right tools and support, you can move from surviving to thriving, just as Gower has. Let’s work together to create a life filled with healing, resilience, and unstoppable strength.
Key Takeaways:
True healing comes from being heard and supported.
Empathy and active listening are critical for personal transformation.
Every client is seen as a partner in success, not just a case or client.
Healing is about building momentum with practical tools and daily practices.