Real Talk: Building My Second Chance Took a Village
- maryrburrell
- May 19
- 2 min read
I talk a lot about second chances—because I’m living proof they exist. But the facts are, I didn’t get here on grit alone. It took a team. A circle. A couple of powerhouse women who rolled up their sleeves, got in the trenches with me, and helped turn my healing into a whole new mission.
Today’s post is pure gratitude. I want to shine the spotlight on two women who’ve been instrumental in building this chapter of my advocacy journey—because behind every strong voice is someone (or some ones) who help lift it up.
✨ Amanda Feldt
Amanda didn’t just build me a website—she gave my story a visual heartbeat.She designed the Second Chance logo, brought the vision for my site to life, and helped me brand this wild, wonderful new beginning in a way that feels 100% like me.
Amanda got it. She took everything I’d been through and translated it into something beautiful and bold.
If you’re an advocate trying to create a brand that feels like you—whether it’s a site, a logo, or a full-on digital presence—Amanda’s your girl. She’s talented, down-to-earth, works within your budget, and truly cares about the story behind the message.
👉 Get in touch with Amanda—your future self will thank you.

🎙️ Katherine Waddell
My podcast and upcoming book? Yeah… they wouldn’t exist without Katherine.
Working with Katharine has been a game-changer. She’s not just coaching me, she’s been a sounding board, a strategist, and a guiding force in helping me shape the heart of this podcast. With her in my corner, launching this show went from overwhelming to hell yes, I can do this. What once felt like too much now feels possible.
If you’ve got a story to tell, a podcast idea brewing, or a book buried inside you… Katherine will help you bring it to life.
👉 Reach out to Kath. She’ll believe in your story even before you do.

Why am I sharing this?
Because these two women showed up for me before the world really saw what I was trying to build.
They believed in the advocate I was becoming, even when I was still grieving, healing, and figuring out what life after hospice looked like.
And that kind of support? It stays with you.
To Amanda and Katherine, I love you both. I’m so thankful for you.
You’d be amazed what’s possible when the right people believe in you. Everyone has a story. Sometimes you need someone who hears the heart behind your story, and someone else who knows how to bring it to life. Whether you're building something new, finding your voice, or stepping into a purpose that scares you a little… the right support matters. That’s what Katherine and Amanda have been for me! Believing in the vision before it was fully formed and helping me turn it into something real.
#SecondChanceStrong #LifeAfterHospice #PatientVoice #Heart2HeartTalk #WomenWhoLiftWomen #GratitudePost #PodcastJourney #TricuspidValveMiracle
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