Amber

SOAR Specialist

Before joining firsthand, Amber was a dedicated full-time college professor at Penn State, and an adjunct faculty member at Carnegie Mellon University. Her life took an unexpected turn when she experienced a traumatic accident, which resulted in the loss of her left hand. The tragedy forever altered her path- it not only presented her with monumental physical challenges, but also inflicted immense emotional and psychological scars. The journey to recovery was arduous, and she faced severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and a battle with substance use disorder. 

Amber's post-accident phase was marked by her inclination to isolate herself from the world. For approximately two and a half years, she avoided going into public places and even corner stores. It wasn't until recently, just a few months ago, that she gathered the courage to step into a Walmart, which was a significant milestone.

Amber's journey toward acceptance has been transformative. Although she may not always appreciate her circumstances, she recognizes that acceptance plays a vital role in her personal growth and well-being. She has also discovered ways to leverage her unique attributes and experiences to her advantage, seeing how they can benefit both herself and others.

Amber also lives with ADHD and is on the autism spectrum, which sometimes led to antisocial tendencies. The accident further isolated her, making it difficult for her to engage with others and even visit stores. Her mental health struggles, including anxiety and PTSD, have been ongoing battles that she continues to work on.

As Amber grappled with her new reality, she found herself working at a dental office, a temporary job that provided stability as she contemplated her future path. It was during this period of contemplation that she had a revelation, sparked by witnessing the transformative power of peer support from her friends who were taking courses in it. Recognizing her innate ability to connect with and support others, Amber realized that she could leverage her personal experiences to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others facing similar challenges.

Amber made the decision to pursue peer support courses herself. This transformative step led her to firsthand, where she worked as a firsthand Guide and was later promoted to a Community Resources Guide, and then SOAR Specialist. Amber's role at firsthand was not initially her intended career path. However, after meeting the team and connecting with the organization's vision, she felt a strong sense of belonging and purpose. The supportive and familial atmosphere drew her in, and she realized she could contribute her background in software engineering to a meaningful cause.

Amber's experience navigating the healthcare system has had a profound impact on her perspective. She carries the burden of stigma and discrimination, having witnessed a loved one’s struggles with borderline personality disorder and the associated societal judgment. This personal history inspired her to join the field and advocate for fair treatment and understanding of mental health. She believes that everyone deserves to be treated with respect and that individuals should have agency over their own care.

Amber's own experiences with mental health, trauma, and recovery have influenced her approach to her work at firsthand. She emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between supporting others and maintaining her own mental well-being, and recognizes the significance of setting boundaries and actively seeks therapy for her trauma-related issues.

In her relentless pursuit of self-improvement, Amber has discovered the transformative power of replacing unhealthy behaviors with positive and fulfilling activities. Engaging in service work, actively participating in her church community, and nurturing her passion for music as a drummer and lead vocalist have all played significant roles in her healing process. By embracing personal development and taking on leadership roles, Amber has fearlessly confronted her fears and liberated herself from the shadows of her past, empowering others to do the same.

What truly inspires and motivates Amber in her work at firsthand are the small victories she witnesses among the people she helps. One example is a transgender individual living with cerebral palsy who lacks family support. Amber played a role in helping this individual obtain their driver's license, bringing them immense joy and independence. Seeing progress and positive changes in the lives of the people she supports is a driving force for Amber.

In terms of advice for individuals living with serious mental or physical illnesses, Amber encourages them to be their own advocates. She believes in taking ownership of one's health and making informed decisions about treatment. Amber stresses the importance of not simply doing what others want but rather listening to feedback, considering both the positive and negative aspects, and making choices that align with one's own well-being.

As she continues to grow, Amber recognizes the paramount importance of self-care and balance. In the midst of her busy schedule, she has learned to prioritize her own well-being, acknowledging the need to carve out moments of tranquility and self-reflection. This newfound commitment to her own health demonstrates Amber's deep understanding that supporting and uplifting others is an ongoing journey that requires a solid foundation of personal well-being.

Outside of work, Amber's primary passion revolves around her 14-year-old son, who is a very gifted and smart boy. Her focus is on supporting her son's unique abilities and providing him with the best possible opportunities.

Though Amber’s professional background primarily consists of tech-related roles and managerial positions, her current job is very different. She appreciates the opportunity it provides to engage with people on a deeper level. She believes her own challenging experiences make her highly relatable to the individuals she works with, emphasizing the value of understanding and connection in her role.

Amber's health and wellness journey has been a testament to her determination and commitment to personal growth. Each day, she conquers the challenges that come her way, celebrating three years of sobriety on May 28th 2023. Throughout her recovery, Amber has faced numerous physical and mental health challenges, taking one small step at a time towards healing.

Amber's story serves as a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to recovery and mental health. She firmly believes that each individual must find their unique path to healing and well-being, understanding that the journey is deeply personal. By surrounding herself with a supportive network of individuals who genuinely understand her struggles, Amber has crafted a new life filled with purpose and hope.