Rebuilding and Healing News Summaries by title
From homeless to inspirational author
Columbine victim's words inspire hope
B. Fong, overcame adversity as a child
UN sees ‘remarkable recovery’ in quake zone
A second chance
Give forgiveness a chance
Two old foes unite to bring peace to Nepal
Banker of the poor wins peace award
Brutal tragedy turns into story of healing
Gun craftsman finds better way to rock in a hard place
Working chance for ex-cons
Rags bring riches in rugs
Resilient Mumbai traders, executives back at work
Indonesians see disasters as God’s will
Job scheme saves kids from a career in crime
Recovery in Cancun ‘a role model’
A growing movement helps families heal after suicide
Message of peace: Friendship letter builds bridges
Aid worker’s diary: Bidding Farewell
Muslim, Christian to embark on mission to Africa, Pakistan
Man helps disabled walk on the safe side
New Orleans is rebuilding with the soul, will of its residents
Prodigal son leaves jail, starts nonprofit for kids
Suicide Attempt Survivor Reaches Out
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From homeless to inspirational author
7th August 2007
By Bob Shryock
This article describes the remarkable transformation in the life and fortunes of author Tracy Owens. Tracey Owens was honored as Woodbury High School Homecoming Queen in 1978. Tracey Owens later moved to San Bernardino, California, to pursue her dream of becoming an abstract artist. Tracey Owens married and became a parent. Life took a turn for the worse. Owens divorced and became homeless. She lived on a patio for a year with a child. Despite difficulties with spelling and English, Tracey Owens has been able to rebuild her life and publish an account of her life, Qurious Feeling. Tracy Owens now operates a business in Englewood. Owens believes her personal experience and her triumph may be inspirational to others. “You don’t need a big home or money, you just need to give thanks for the simple things in life”. Owens added “You should never let your goals and dreams die. I wake up every day with expectancy. I went to the angels and they housed and protected me”.
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Columbine victim’s words inspire hope
13th April 2007
By John Sullivan
This short article in The Times Herald-Record described how memories of the courage and compassion of a remarkable student is inspiring a new generation to live better lives. 17-year-old Rachel Scott was the first victim of the Columbine High School shootings in Colorado in 1999. Rachel Scott’s tragic story now provides a message of hope for others. During her life Rachel provided a positive role model for her peers. Her positive attitude and compassion had uplifted those around her. Rachel Scott had been strongly influenced by the writings of Anne Frank. Frank’s message of courage and compassion provided a source of inspiration which Rachel had applied to her own life. Rachel Scott had stood up for her classmates against bullies and given support to others. Rachel Scott’s memory remains strong and is now giving hope to other young people. The article describes how Derek Kilgore, a friend of Rachel’s brother has developed a powerful national program called “Rachel’s Challenge” to encourage other young people to chose kindness and compassion in their lives. The story tells of a recent visit by Kilgore to a high school and the possibility that this new program will prompt young people to reassess their lives. Kilgore’s program uses slides and film to communicate a message of healing and hope.
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B. Fong, overcame adversity as a child
6th April 2007
By Barbara Feder Ostrov
The San Jose Mercury News celebrated the remarkable life of former Sunnyvale resident Mr. B. Fong. The story described Mr. Fong’s remarkable courage and how he overcame a series of severe setbacks to live a remarkable life. B. Fong was orphaned at 4 years of age after a hurricane destroyed his village in the Mississippi Delta. During the natural disaster in 1929, Fong was severely injured. He was forced to live in a variety of foster homes. To complicate matters, Fong’s family’s insurance money was stolen by an opium addict. As a young man of Chinese descent, Fong was forced to confront racial discrimination in the Southern states to achieve the honor of becoming one of the first Chinese graduates from the University Of Mississippi School Of Pharmacy. Mr. B. Fong served with the Navy in the South Pacific during WWII. After the war, Fong returned home to the USA and was to become a successful pharmacist for many years in the San Francisco area. Mr. B. Fong was much loved and respected in his local community and he had a deep understanding of the needs of disadvantaged members of the community. Mr. B. Fong’s remarkable life illustrates that many seemingly impossible setbacks can be overcome on the road to the fulfillment of our dreams.
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UN sees ‘remarkable recovery’ in quake zone
5th February 2007
The News – International reported on the remarkable reconstruction effort in earthquake affected regions of Pakistan since the devastating natural disaster. A multitude of people were killed and injured by the severe earthquake. Communities, families and individuals are now showing remarkable resilience and rebuilding entire communities. Few would have thought this amount of recovery possible just a few months ago. A UN advisor, Andrew Macleod, commented that “This was the biggest natural disaster response in the history of humanity. What we’ve seen her will be seen as one of the best models of early recovery”. Lt-Gen Nadeem Ahmad of the Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (ERRA) described how people in the affected areas had turned adversity into opportunity and recently regained their independence. “This is what we wanted – that communities take charge of their lives”.
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A second chance
2nd February 2007
This story profiled author Russ Scannavino who recently published A Second Chance, a book which describes how he had rebuilt his life after a series of setbacks. 23-year-old Scannavino was promoted to the manager of a convenience store chain. Scannavino’s vehicle was involved in an accident and he sustained severe injuries. Russ Scannavino remained in a coma for 12 days and he awoke to discover that the right side of his body was paralyzed. Scannavino worked hard to relearn basic skills required for everyday life. Things were soon to get even worse. He was fired from his job and his career seemed over. Over the following few years Russ Scannavino worked in a series of jobs in an effort to rebuild his career. Eventually he would find a suitable job with the US Postal Service. Additionally, Russ Scannavino uses his management skills to successfully run several profitable home-based businesses. Russ Scannavino hopes that his story will encourage other people to triumph over personal hardship.
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Give forgiveness a chance
7th December 2006
By Jonathan Pitts
This intriguing article discusses the issue of forgiveness and the role that it may play in the healing process. The role of forgiveness is controversial, but the writer points out that a growing number of behavioural scientists are recognizing the importance of forgiving in the rebuilding process. Researchers in many fields have become interested in the role that forgiveness may play. The writer highlights an increasing number of books written on the topic as well as several websites that have been established to promote the healing power of forgiveness. The writer points out that choosing to forgive is often difficult and indeed may oppose a natural instinct to relieve anger by seeking retribution. Anger that is unrelieved may however lead to frustration and resentment. Some recent medical studies have highlighted a link between forgiveness and improved cardiovascular health, blood pressure and reduced substance consumption. A useful website to learn more about issues of forgiveness is www.forgiveness-institute.org
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Two old foes unite to bring peace to Nepal
23rd November 2006
By Connie Levett
The Herald reported on the recent peace agreement aimed at resolving the recent conflict in the Himalayan nation of Nepal. The agreement has brought new hope and a spirit of cooperation to the troubled country. The conflict has lasted 11 years and cost over 12,500 lives. The agreement was formalized by the 85-year-old interim Prime Minister Girija Prasad Kiorala and Maoist leader Prachanda. Girija Prasad Kiorala told the audience in Kathmandu at the signing of the agreement “The politics of killing and intimidation has stopped and the politics of coming together has begun”. Kiorala added “I would like to thank Prachanda for finding a peaceful solution …Now we need to meet together in co-operation and understanding to make sure this agreement is fully implemented”. Plans for the country include a general election will in the near future. As part of the peace process, the role of the king will also be clarified.
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Banker of the poor wins peace award
13th October 2006
By John Acher
The award of the Nobel Peace Prize to Muhammad Yunus, a Bangladeshi economist, has attracted a large amount of media attention all across the globe. The Herald reported that Yunus will receive the award in Oslo in December 2006. Muhammad Yunus is probably best known for developing the concept of microcredit which has helped lift millions of people out of poverty around the globe. In 1976, Yunus established an innovative bank which enabled poor people to borrow small amounts of money without collateral and set up their own businesses. The concept has proved a remarkable success in Bangladesh and has been adapted in other countries across the globe. The Grameen Bank now serves over 6.1 million borrowers and loans small amounts to farmers, fisherman, artisans and other individuals who wish to establish a small business. Yunus stated that “Lasting peace cannot be achieved unless large population groups find ways in which to break out of poverty. Microcredit is one such means. Development from below also serves to advance democracy and human rights”.
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Brutal tragedy turns into story of healing
9th October 2006
By Susan Reinhardt
The Citizen-Times carried an inspiring story of forgiveness and reconciliation. The article concerns Kathy Stein, a victim of a shooting, and her 13-year-old attacker. The shooting occurred during an attempted robbery and caused life threatening injuries to Kathy Stein. For a short time Kathy Stein’s life was in the balance but she quickly recovered from her physical injuries. Stein was understandably frightened and traumatized by the shooting. After the incident, Kathy Stein started questioning the circumstances of the shooting and sought answers. The search for understanding of the incident commenced a remarkable tale of healing and reconciliation between the victim and her attacker. Stein learned that the attacker was Jerrell Bowman, a 13-year-old boy from a highly deprived background. Jerrell was apparently a delightful child who had experienced a neglectful upbringing in an environment of drugs, racism and violence. A tragic life had presented him with few chances for self-improvement. It also transpired that certain individuals had heard Jerrell Bowman planning the attack but failed to raise an alarm. The article describes how Stein developed a sense of empathy for the teenager and became a passionate advocate for the youngster as he passed through the prison system. Kathy Stein became an advocate for a change in attitude towards prisoners with more emphasis on interventions to increase the chances of discharged inmates becoming model citizens. Stein told The Citizen-Times “My goal is to have my shooting somehow be a transformative process into helping things get better. I know because of my work as a physician’s assistant in the prison system what happens to young inmates in adult prisons. I know how they get used and raped”. The Citizen-Times article provides a detailed account of this remarkable story. Jerrell Bowman has been discharged from prison and is now rebuilding his life. Kathy Stein, now aged 52, works as a physician’s assistant within the justice system.
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Gun craftsman finds better way to rock in a hard place
22nd September 2006
By Peter Markey (of Reuters)
This article introduces Luis Alberto Paredes, one of the top musical instrument makers in Columbia. The story describes his mission to convert weapons into the symbols of peace. In his workshop in the capital city Paredes converts weapons such as shotguns and AK47 rifles into electric guitars. He has been performing these remarkable transformations for three years after an initial approach by Cesar Lopez, a popular local musician. Finished guitars have been highly sought after by local and international musicians. Luis Alberto Paredes normally receives decommissioned rifles as part of a UN program to promote peace. Paredes then transforms them into functional musical instruments. The story in The Australian outlined the difficult conditions in Columbia that have inspired this bold enterprise for peace. In the article, Luis Alberto Paredes described the positive impact of his creative work. “It is a paradox, to take something that kills and then transform it into something that pleases people”.
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Working chance for ex-cons
17th September 2006
By Gary L. Wright
The Charlotte Observer described the positive effects of former prison inmates returning to the workforce. Many prison inmates have never held regular jobs and career building has been increasingly recognized as one of the keys to minimize the risk of re-offending. A regular job provides security, builds self-esteem and rebuilds lives after inmates are released from prison. Many employers have found the former prison inmates make good employees. Despite their negative image, many former prisoners are highly motivated and are keen to take the opportunity to build a new life. The Observer reporter spoke to Alan Schultz, one employer who had previously had positive experiences with employing former inmates. Schultz told the reporter “They’d rather be working and making money than sitting in jail. They never call in sick. And they never complain. They are model employees”. Placements are more likely to succeed if appropriate training is provided and support services are utilized. One former inmate, DeJuan Walker commented on his own experience in the workforce. “I’ve only known the streets. I started getting into trouble with the law when I was 14. Now I’m trying to show my appreciation for this job and opportunity by not messing up and doing wrong”.
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Rags bring riches in rugs
8th August 2006
By Rafique Sarker
This Daily Star report describes how the production of high quality rugs has provided work to hundreds of unemployed women in Kurigram, Bangladesh and given hope to the entire community. The handloom-produced rugs have quickly found favor in the markets of Europe and North America. The factory was created through a joint venture between an NGO and a private company. One of the features of the factory has been the deliberate use of abundant local resources like jute, garment waste, maize cane and sugar cane. The establishment of the facility has helped a number of families overcome poverty and has created genuine hope for the future. One of the factory workers, 35-year-old Sakina, told The Daily Star about the difference that the joint venture had made. “It was only a few months ago that I used to beg from door to door. Now I earn a decent living in the carpet factory”.
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Resilient Mumbai traders, executives back at work
12th July 2006
This article highlighted the strength and resolve shown by the residents of the Indian city of Mumbai after the recent terrorist attacks there. The story contains comments of several inhabitants of the city. Makarand Bhopalkar, a corporate trainer told Reuters that “We are used to crises here. We’ve had bombs, we had the water last year (referring to flooding). The city survives”. Priyadarshani Das, an employee of the Deutsche Bank noted a strong spirit of the people of Mumbai and how this had helped at a difficult time. “I’m not from Mumbai so even if Mumbai is used to all this, I’m not. But I was impressed by the spirit of helping others”. Another resident told of their feeling of defiance towards the bombers. “My family is scared for me, but I am not scared. I want to prove that I am not cowed by what happened yesterday”.
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Indonesians see disasters as God’s will
31st May 2006
By Chris Brummit (of Associated Press)
In recent years, the people of Indonesia have shown remarkable resilience in the face of some devastating natural disasters. This intriguing article examines how the Indonesians have learned to cope with this adversity and rebuild their lives. Many Indonesians believe that the events are a message from God. It is thought by many Indonesians that events like the recent earthquakes provide an opportunity to reflect on their lives and develop a different perspective. Foreign aid workers have been deeply impressed by the attitude of the Indonesian people. The article quoted Daniel Ziv, a UN aid worker who commented that “The resourcefulness most Indonesian have demonstrated is heartening. Everyone’s busty getting things done”. Indonesian President Yudhoyono perhaps summarized the attitude of many Indonesians when he said that “We must be grateful and tests like this should be met with resolve and humbleness”.
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Job scheme saves kids from a career in crime
8th May 2006
By Caroline Wilson
This article reported the success of a scheme in the United Kingdom aimed to get teenage offenders out of crime and into the workplace. The pilot scheme in Cumbernauld selected young offenders aged from16 to 19 as they passed through the criminal justice system. At the time the article was writing, the program seemed to be a significant success. Several of the young offenders have either found employment or commenced vocational training programs. Most of the remaining participants in the initiative are still involved. From an initial seventeen participants, only two have dropped out. The Positive Outcomes scheme has been such a success, it has been expanded to other areas. The aim of the project is to break the cycle of crime and prevent re-offending. Police Inspector Bob Hope, one of the architects of the scheme, told The Evening Times that participants need to be motivated to succeed in the scheme. The reporter spoke to Iain McLean of Careers Scotland who said “We had one boy who had come from a very difficult background. There had been a long history of unemployment in the family. I don’t think he had ever been told he had any skills. Thanks to the scheme he is now training to become a mechanic”.
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Recovery in Cancun ‘a role model’
23rd April 2006
South Florida Sun-Sentinel, (reprinted from Washington Post)
After a natural disaster it is often difficult to believe that recovery is possible. This story gives hope to people affected by serious natural disasters. This recent article reported the amazing progress in reconstruction of the resort city Cancun after Hurricane Wilma hit in 2005. Within months of the disaster, all the major attractions and roads were reopened for business. The article describes how over 62% of guest rooms have already been rebuilt. It is expected that 90% of hotel accommodation will be open before September. A priority has been the restoration of air services. Repair to the beachfront has also been a key to attracting visitors back. The rebuilding of Cancun has been such a success that it is being put forward as a positive example for future natural disasters. The story quoted Francesco Frangialli of the World Tourism Organization who said Cancun “is worthy of being a role model to be followed by other destinations around the world”
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A growing movement helps families heal after suicide
18th April 2006
By Patricia Anstett (of Detroit Free Press)
This informative article discussed the important issue of families coping with suicide. A large number of families have suffered from the trauma of a suicide. For surviving family members and friends rebuilding after a suicide is difficult but this excellent article alerts the reader to some of the helpful resources available to cope at this time. The article has personal accounts from people whose lives have been touched by the trauma of suicide. One particularly compelling account concerned Selene Wadhawan, aged 33, who has experienced the suicide of both of her parents. Wadhawan has finally rebuilt her life after becoming addicted to alcohol and suffering from severe depression after the suicide of her mother. Selene Wadhawan has graduated from college and is now keen to help other people who have experienced a suicide in the family. The article refers the reader to an informative book about this important issue, Dying to Be Free: A Healing Guide for Families after a Suicide by Jean Larch (Hazelden Books).
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Message of peace: Friendship letter builds bridges
5th April 2006
By Munizae Jahangir
During recent years, India and Pakistan have enjoyed a period of improving relations. In the last few years, a period of improved trust and cooperation appears to have begun. An indication of the improvement in relations between the two South Asian neighbours was recently reported by NDTV. The NDTV article describes expressions of goodwill between children in the two countries. In an event at Lahore’s Gaddafi stadium, a friendship letter covering an entire field has been written by 11,000 Indian children. The letter outlines a desire for a future of peace and friendship and covers an area measuring 319 x 233 feet. The Pakistanis have responded with thousands of letters of their own. A student Mahem Abbass wrote the following message of goodwill, “We regard you as very valuable and important neighbours and wish to have a deep and long lasting friendship. We take you as a country, as a nation, and as individuals”. The aim of the children’s campaign is to build on the improvement in relations over the last few years.
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Aid worker’s diary: Bidding Farewell
13th March 2006
By Isabelle Giasson
A report on BBC News described the good work done to reconstruct earthquake-ravaged Pakistan and the remarkable courage and resilience of the survivors of the disaster. Daily life in the affected area was always difficult, but the devastating earthquake profoundly impacted on the lives of the people who live there. Despite the hardships they face, the inhabitants of the area are showing strength, courage and a determination to rebuild their lives. The article highlights the example of a man called Gul Hussan who has been keenly involved in the reconstruction efforts even though he cannot read or write. The story tells how the courage of the local people has recently helped them survive a bitter winter. Now they are starting to look forward once more. The writer of the article has been involved in a relief team providing shelter for over 12,000 people in 25 villages.
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Muslim, Christian to embark on mission to Africa, Pakistan
3rd March 2006
By Jane Holleman
This article in The Dallas Morning News described a remarkable piece of cooperation and understanding that spans the racial and religious divide. The story introduces Sheikh Hasan Hajmohammad who resides in Irving. Sheikh Hasan Hajmohammad founded a Muslim charity called Baitulmaal to help the disadvantaged. The sheikh has appointed Eric Williams, a self-professed Christian CEO. The story reports how representatives of the charity were embarking on a journey to Africa and earthquake-ravaged areas of Pakistan to assist those most in need. Williams and the Sheikh have quickly forged a strong and productive working relationship. Eric Williams told the reporter “With the heightened tension today between Muslims and Christians, I really wanted to … help solve the gap”. The Sheikh commented “I am spreading peace and mercy for everybody”.
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Man helps disabled walk on the safe side
19th February 2006
By Huu Tra and Phan Thuy
VietNam News profiled Vo Duy Tru who designed and developed an ingenious device to help disabled people to walk. Tru was inspired by the memory of his deceased wife who was disabled. Vo Duy Tru, a resident of Da Nang City, devoted several years to building the device which helps mobility. His invention allows the user to move in any direction and provides both comfort and security. Tru was inspired to design the device after his wife suffered a stroke and was unable to walk. Her condition worsened after an accident. Tru felt frustrated but also challenged to find a solution. Tru told the reporter “A possible solution crossed my mind when I saw a toddler learning to walk”. Many people were skeptical about his initial idea but Tru’s determination was very strong. He read many books and consulted widely to perfect his design. He tried and failed many times before hitting on the correct design. When he completed his invention, Vo Duy Tru took the device to his altar to demonstrate his love for his departed wife. Tru’s story reveals how much can be achieved by persistence and hard work. It also shows the power of love. Vo Duy Tru commented “I hope my story shows the younger generation something positive about love”.
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New Orleans is rebuilding with the soul, will of its residents
12th February 2006
By Jane Wooldridge
There is still a considerable amount of work required to rebuild the hurricane-ravaged city of New Orleans. This report describes some of the positive signs suggesting that the colorful city is gradually starting to recover from the devastating natural disaster. Efforts are being made to attract people back to the city to support businesses and accelerate the rebuilding. With the exception of the aquarium, all of the city’s major tourist attractions are open for business. The article provides an informative summary of the progress made in returning the city to more normal levels of activity. The story also describes a complex mixture of emotions felt by the returning residents of the city including relief, anxiety and some frustration. Many residents are looking forward to the challenges and opportunities which lie ahead. A useful resource for intending visitors to the city is the website of the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.neworleansvb.com
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Prodigal son leaves jail, stars nonprofit for kids
6th February 2006
By Myung Oak Kim
A story in The Rocky Mountain News described how a former prison inmate and gang member is rebuilding his life in a way that few believed possible. In the process, he is bringing hope and positive messages into the lives of others. Terrance Roberts, aged 29, is a former gang member has spent many long years in prison for gang-related activities. Roberts first served time in juvenile detention when he was aged 14. He has been shot on several occasions. Terrance Roberts served a seven year sentence for attempted murder. A turning point in his life came in 2001 when he watched a TV documentary on Martin Luther King. Roberts discovered religion and became a changed man. He immediately realized the futility of his current gang lifestyle and committed himself to healing and rebuilding his life. Terrance Roberts started a nonprofit organization called Prodigal Son Initiative which promotes positive messages for young people and aims to break the cycle of violence and gang participation. Lazette Ray, an administrative assistant at Hallett Elementary described the significance of Terrance Robert’s recent visit to the school. “Terrance’s goal is to keep them on the path to hope, because they feel they are in a box in this neighborhood and they feel they can’t ever branch out”. Ray added, “They come here and it’s a breath of fresh air”.
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Suicide Attempt Survivor Reaches Out
29th January 2005
By Judy Hill
Many people seriously consider ending their lives during difficult moments. If you have ever considered ending your life, then don’t. This thought-provoking story provides many compelling reasons to seek help. Help and support is always available. The article in The Tampa Tribune describes the experiences of Liz Taylor, of Florida. Liz Taylor has battled against severe depression and attempted suicide on several occasions. The story describes how Liz has courageously rebuilt her life and found happiness she never believed could be possible. She now loves her life, runs her own business and is no longer haunted by the demons of the past. Now Taylor is involved with suicide prevention and encourages people suffering profound sadness to speak out and seek the help and support that they deserve. Liz Taylor suggests that anyone who contemplates ending their life not to make an impulsive decision. Give yourself another chance by immediately seeking advice, help and support. Help numbers are often listed in the white pages of the telephone book.
