As a child growing up, I knew one thing for sure: I am the daughter of a rare breed of woman. All of her life, Mom was driven, courageous and unapologetic for her success. Not only did she build and run two thriving businesses, she also sold them and they are still in existence today. So, it is appropriate I recognize my mother as my most influential “woman in history” this year and as a woman who truly refused to be silenced.
You see, I am blessed to be the daughter of a woman who was an entrepreneur, long before I even knew how to spell the word, let alone grasp the meaning. What I didn’t know in my youth, and she shared with me at a later time, is how many barriers Mom had to overcome simply because she was a woman in the 70s doing something very few were doing in rural America. As I was nearing a level of leadership that not many women were reaching in our country, I realized that the strength and character Mom instilled in me shaped my cornerstones of success which I believe apply to us all: owning your confidence, having courage to speak up when no one else will, incredible hard work, and most of all, kindness.
The 2021 Women’s History Month theme is “Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to be silenced.” This past year has been like no other, on many levels. Carrying forward the valiant work of those who came before us, many inspiring women are navigating uncharted waters so that we can continue using our voice and strength, stay the course and rise above the chaos. I am humbled by the resilience and tenacity of my fellow female warriors who show up day after day as present, guiding lights for so many people who are hurting.
Now more than ever, we must continue to use our voices, loudly. We need to continually vocalize solutions and possess an unwavering determination and fighting spirit. These attributes are so evident in our work here at BHG. Regardless of our position or title, we are all leaders fighting the good fight to provide access to treatment and recovery for those struggling with addiction.
This year and always, refuse to be silenced. Let’s continue finding the pathways and having the courage to use our voices and amazing skills to stand up for those — peers, patients and people in our lives — who may not have someone to stand up for them. That’s what this year’s Women’s History Month theme is all about.
I am proud to be a part of BHG, representing all women and our operations team while standing shoulder to shoulder with so many valiant women who make a difference each and every day.
COO, BHG