The Story of my Life came to inception through a personal life-changing experience, with my grandmother’s diagnosis of cancer. With only six weeks to live, my grandmother’s final weeks changed not only my priorities, but also my perspective. Each day, as I visited my grandmother, I recognized the need for creative expression. There were so many people in the hospital who were facing the same fate, and each so willing to share their stories. For those who knew their time here was coming to an end, validating their existence was a focus. In this six-week period, I learned more about my grandmother as truth and authenticity became reality. This became one of my most cherished memories to date, and my goal moving forward is to bring others’ individual stories to fruition sooner as opposed to later.
My intention when I first designed this series in 2015, was to produce a legacy gift for future generations. What I didn’t realize at that time was how big this gift would be to the individual writer themself. I have been witness to many beautiful stories. It all starts with validation. Watching my journaling friends feel empowered in their story, and in their message left to this world, has become my passion and purpose moving forward. I do know that the message you leave for your future legacy will be of more value to them than you can imagine.
It is always a pleasure!
Shelley
Evelyn Gertrude Lewis | April 14, 1920-March 14, 2009
Professionally:
Shelley is a fun, energetic, and inspiring individual within her work and life in general. Most of her career was invested in retail management (Sobeys, Walmart, Reitman’s, Farm Boy), supporting customer service, building and strengthening teams and relationships, sales and administration.
Shelley excelled in communication, coaching, training and development. She was recognized for her positive energy and always working towards bettering the business.
2015 brought the inception of The Story of my Life, and her passion and purpose moving forward is to strengthen and build relationships within communities: Retirement, Adult Lifestyle, and Rehabilitation.
Her driving force and mission is to hear your voice through story, putting pen to paper, and validating existence before it is too late. You are never too young or old to start writing.
Personally:
Now residing in Uxbridge, Ontario; Shelley has found balance within work and personal interests. She strives toward improving spiritually as a daily practice, learning to grow and lead in faith. Trail walks with her friendly canines “Dash and Zeus” and “Miss Daisy” her feline friend, who also believes she is a dog; are a daily adventure. Although facilitating and running her business are a primary focus, Shelley makes time daily to journal and read to keep her mind stimulated and current.
Shelley found one of her biggest passions a little later in life – Hockey. She had always been a fan, however learned to play in her 38th year. Hockey has given her so many blessings: travelling, friendships, competition, and learning how to live in the moment.
Other hobbies include music, dance, coaching girls ball hockey, cooking, “rookie” gardener (veggie), wine touring, and travelling.
Most treasured gifts:
- My husband. 2025 will mark our Silver Anniversary.
- My two beautiful boys, who are now out in the world sharing their brilliance.
- Being an identical twin. Eldest of four sisters who always keep me on my toes.
- My family and friends, who continue to support me in this craziness called life.
Shelley has finally gone to print on her own personal story in 2024 “If Only I Could Sing or Dance” and will continue to add to help produce the second chapter in her life journey. The title of that story is yet to be determined.
