Honey, let me tell you a story. It’s one of those tales where you laugh, cry, and maybe even snort a little. It’s about a woman (yours truly) who has been through some stuff and came out on the other side with a glow-up so bright, it’d make the sun wear shades. So, grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let me take you on a journey from setback to comeback, with a sprinkle of humor and a whole lot of heart. 

I remember the day like it was yesterday. I was working as an IRS Revenue Officer, a job I truly loved. I was walking to my desk, laughing and chatting, thinking, “This is the career I’m going to retire from.” Little did I know, life had other plans. Nine months before, I had a heart attack. Yes, you heard right. I thought that was my big health scare, my wake-up call, and my comeback moment. I made a few changes, patted myself on the back, and kept pushing forward. 

Then, just when I thought I was in the clear, boom! A stroke hit me out of nowhere while I was at work. Talk about a double whammy! Suddenly, I was in the hospital again, grappling with the reality that my health was demanding more than a quick fix. It was like life was saying, “Girl, you didn’t get the message the first time?” 

I had been telling doctors about my health issues for a while, but they didn’t believe me. So there I was, lying in that hospital bed, thinking, “Lord, what have I done to deserve this?” The truth was, despite my best efforts, my body was waving a big red flag. The road to recovery was no joke. It was like trying to climb a mountain in stilettos, hard and painful. I spent two years in rehabilitation, with my future hanging in the air like a suspenseful movie scene. 

The fear of the unknown was real and terrifying. I lost my independence, and it was heartbreaking. As a forensic accountant, I couldn’t even tell you what 4 plus 4 was. I had to undergo speech therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy. The struggle was real, and the journey was tough. 

But let me tell you, it was also the beginning of something beautiful. I had to learn the fine art of self-care. I started with small changes: getting enough sleep, eating better, and moving my body. And the hardest part? Learning to say “no.” Oh, child, that was tough. I was so used to being everything for everyone, but I had to learn to be there for myself first. 

As I started to heal, I realized my story could help others. So, I began sharing my journey, and guess what? People listened. I was invited to speak at wellness conferences, share my experiences on podcasts, and write articles. My message resonated because it was real, raw, and, let’s face it, a little funny. I wasn’t just a heart health advocate and comedian anymore; I had become a voice for those navigating the pressures of modern life. 

My comedy evolved too. I started infusing my routines with lessons from my health scare. Laughter, after all, is the best medicine. My audiences connected with my authenticity, and I found a renewed sense of purpose. Making people laugh while inspiring them to take care of themselves? That’s a win-win in my book. 

One of the most beautiful parts of my comeback was reconnecting with my family. We started creating hilarious viral skits together, and honey, let me tell you, those videos brought joy not just to us but to everyone who watched. It was a reminder that laughter and love are the best medicines. 

But wait, there’s more! This journey of setbacks and comebacks led to something I never saw coming—an honorary doctorate. Yes, honey, you can call me Dr. ShantaQuilette Develle. When I walked across that stage, I wasn’t just accepting a degree; I was celebrating my resilience, my glow-up, and the realization that even the darkest moments can lead to the brightest futures. 

So here’s what I’ve learned: setbacks are just set-ups for comebacks. Life will throw you some curveballs, and sometimes it feels like you’re stuck in the dugout. But baby, when you step back up to that plate, swing for the fences. Embrace the struggle, find your strength, and don’t forget to laugh along the way. 

Learning to walk again? That was God fixing my stride. Learning to speak again? That was just God amplifying my voice. Today, I’m healthier, happier, and more grateful than ever. My story isn’t just about surviving—it’s about thriving. It’s about turning pain into power and setbacks into comebacks. And if my journey can inspire even one person to take better care of themselves, then it’s all been worth it. 

Remember, life’s challenges are not roadblocks; they’re stepping stones. And sometimes, those stones lead to the most beautiful destinations. Keep laughing, keep loving, and keep shining, my friends. The glow-up is real, and it’s waiting for you.