Today we’d like to introduce you to Chanell Smith.
Hi Chanell, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
After being a caregiver for nearly 8 yrs. and I was settling back into life, I noticed a small white dot on the back of my neck. Over time, I started getting bigger, and I said to myself I hope I don’t have what my grandmother, uncle, and aunt had. So, my hairdresser noticed it as well. Eventually, I realized I had Vitilogo. I did some research, and in my family, a few have it (some more than others). After locating the top Vitilogo Doctor in my State, my breakout was from stress and grief. Everyone’s journey is different, so over the years, I was embarrassed and ashamed of the breakouts. I would hide and cover my arms, etc.
During the shutdown (what I call Resetting time), I took all my notes and thoughts, gathered them into book form. I asked friends who wrote books and eventually signed with a publisher. I had a dream over ten years ago, with the name and it is Lonely Sunday.
I am happy I was brave to share my journey and how lonely I felt during this journey. While writing the book, I also was in one year of inner healing counseling which was a breakthrough for me.
I am grateful and thankful.
Here are video promos: vimeo.com/749381295 and vimeo.com/752735487
Chanell Smith, MSW
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road because of shame. If I would be accepted or look over. Being single, will my future mate accept the Vitilogo? Yes, I may not have as prominent as others, but I have it, and I needed to learn to accept and love myself no matter what. I still have days of ups and downs, but I love where I am in life. I am working on some professional goals. I want to be a speaker for Vitiligo, Self-esteem, and other areas of Self Image.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I have had an extensive employment career. I worked as a sign language interpreter (ASL) for over 10 years professional in the school system. I also focused my graduate work as an ASL Interpreter. After graduating from USC School of Social Work 2001-2004, I worked as a social worker for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for two years. Then I transferred to Adoptions, providing the Deaf and Hard of Hearing with my ASL knowledge to become foster and/or adoptive parents. I loved my work as an adoption social worker and facilitator of PS Mapp curriculum. It was the best ten years of my career. I love working with all the families, teaching the classes. I truly felt it was my best work. I have now transitioned into the mental health arena and focusing on obtaining some certifications for future speaking opportunities.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: ItsChanellsWorld
Image Credits
Damon Jones
