This morning I had two people reach out to me asking for my bio. In truth, I don’t have one. I assumed everyone knew my story. 

I’m sharing a brief bio about myself in the event you haven’t read my “About” page. This is a condensed version of my story however, I hope I somehow resonate with someone today and make a difference. 

I’m Velma. I want to share my story with women (and men) out there who may find themselves facing challenges in life. Life is hard sometimes, especially when you’re a woman because often times we are seen as caregivers. There’s an expectation that we can persevere through anything. I’m no stranger to the pitfalls of life. There are many challenges, insecurities and fears that go along with trying to get through this thing we call Life. 

I’ve survived divorce, custody battles, the death of my father, a 16 year eating disorder, alcoholism (I’m 15 years sober), an emotionally abusive relationship while battling cancer, I’ve done my best to raise three wonderful children as a single mom. I’m a warrior and I’m a survivor. 

My dad passed away six years ago and I was devastated. My life turned upside down. I quit my job, broke up with my boyfriend, packed up my bags, left my family, friends and even my children to move to San Francisco in the hopes of finding happiness. Unfortunately, I hit rock bottom. For the first time in my life, I found myself facing challenges I couldn’t overcome. I found myself broken and I felt like a failure. I ended up sick, very depressed and I lost my self worth, self confidence and my strength to believe in myself and persevere. 

God certainly has a sense of humor. On April 10, 2014, I was diagnosed with an aggressive breast cancer. I’ve been battling the wreckage of this disease ever since. I endured six chemo therapy treatments, 36 radiation treatments, a year of infusions, the loss of my hair, my eyebrows, my eyelashes, my fingernails, toenails and the loss of my dignity too. My knees and the bathroom floor became very good friends. I was on my knees every day asking God for the strength to make it through one more day. I made it! I’m a survivor.  

Life can be challenging at times. Occasionally I feel like I’m “living a life of illusion” however, if there’s one thing I know, in any challenge, this too shall pass. If God brings you to it, he will certainly bring you through it. My philosophy is you have to find the humor in all things. There is always something to be grateful for and there is always, always something to laugh about. My hope is that by sharing my stories, my experiences, my ups and my downs, that someone will find themselves inspired to keep going and never give up! If I can do it….So can you. 

I read a quote once that said, “She was unstoppable! Not because she didn’t have failures or doubts, but because she continued on despite them.” I am continuing my fight every day and I hope that I will be the inspiration you need to do the same. I’m an overcomer! I’m a survivor! I’m Fierce, Fabulous and Funny!

If you’d like to contact me, please email velmadunkin@gmail.com. I’d be happy to hear from you and offer any advice or encouragement I can. I am a certified John Maxwell Coach. My goal is to add value to the lives of others and make a difference. I hope I can make a positive difference in your life.

This is certainly my song!