Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Becher
Hi Nancy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been a business consultant for over 40 years and hold a Master’s in Counseling as well as a PhD (abd) from Western Michigan University. In 2014, I was involved in a hit-and-run car accident that left me disabled and in constant pain. This experience made me realize that many women face stigma, anxiety, pain, and other challenges due to their invisible disabilities.
Recently, I founded a nonprofit organization to address health inequalities, improve people’s experiences with healthcare services, and provide support for those with various physical and mental health conditions. I also offer one-on-one assistance to individuals. Recently, I became an International #1 best-selling author and was recognized as Huntsville, AL’s “best in service for healthcare consultant.” Additionally, I hold certificates as a coffee coach consultant, an Alabama Peer Support Specialist, and am a member of the Alabama Federation of Fire Chaplains.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has been anything but smooth. Not knowing how to run a non-profit made things tough. While it’s somewhat like running a business, there are many differences in managing the daily and overall operations. We’ve struggled to find supporters, volunteers, and donors, and to understand our mission’s impact on society. Getting people to see why we do what we do has been a challenging learning experience. On top of that, I am disabled and deal with chronic pain and other medical issues. Doctor visits, feeling unwell, and pain are part of my daily life. Despite these challenges, I believe they make me a better board president and founder of Invisible Warriors. I better understand what our community goes through and how to help them because I share their experiences. Even though it’s been hard, the journey has been valuable, and I wouldn’t change any part of it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Invisible Warriors is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting adult women with invisible illnesses, a condition that affects about one-third of adult Americans. Founded in 2022 by Nancy Becher, the organization focuses on several key areas to improve the lives of those with hidden health issues. Their mission includes advocating within the medical and travel industries, creating a supportive online community, educating related industries and government bodies, and ensuring access to necessary health resources like medications and equipment.
The services provided by Invisible Warriors include advocating for better treatment and policies, offering community and educational support through an online platform, and promoting public awareness to increase societal acceptance and support for people living with invisible illnesses. Through these efforts, Invisible Warriors has connected individuals, raised awareness, improved access to health resources, empowered its community members, and influenced policy changes to better meet the needs of those they serve.
As the founder of Invisible Warriors, I was motivated by my own experiences as an adult woman living with invisible illnesses. I recognized how common these conditions are and how isolated many people feel despite being part of a large demographic. This inspired me to create a nonprofit aimed at improving the lives of those facing similar challenges. The organization’s mission is closely tied to my experience and commitment to fostering a sense of community, improving access to essential resources, and advocating for better understanding and treatment of invisible illnesses.
The story of Invisible Warriors is one of turning personal hardship into a collective movement. Although two out of three adult Americans live with at least one invisible illness, many feel alone and marginalized. Invisible Warriors was created to address this by advocating for a better-informed medical community, educating industries like travel on best practices for inclusion, and providing a strong support network. Their work also includes ensuring affordable access to necessary medical treatments and equipment, which greatly improves the quality of life for many individuals.
Invisible Warriors has the opportunity to significantly impact public policy, enhance industry standards, and improve societal recognition and support for individuals with invisible illnesses. Developing new tools, such as a certified app to help communicate medical conditions to authorities, could revolutionize how invisible illnesses are managed socially and medically.
However, the challenges are considerable. The invisibility of these conditions can lead to skepticism or denial of their legitimacy. Ensuring consistent funding and overcoming biases in government and industry are also substantial hurdles. The organization must continually work to bridge understanding among various stakeholders while expanding its reach and influence under these constraints.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I would spend time on LInkedIn, looking for like-minded individuals. Perhaps join a local Chamber of Commerce or other group that could provide you with people that not only understand what you’re doing but are passionate about that topic as well.
Pricing:
- Donations can be of any amount. You can donate via the website at https://invisiblewarriors.org
Contact Info:
- Website: https://invisiblewarriors.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chiefflyingpigwrangler/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WarriorTheSpokesDog
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChronicInvisibleWarriors
