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Endorser Profile: Shellie Power

Shellie Power is the Executive Director of Hope Centre Ministries (HCM) in Winnipeg. HCM is the most wonderful organization, and a lot of that has to do with its big enchilada, Shellie. Shellie has the biggest heart, and it's fitting that the annual fundraiser is called Hearts for Hope with their adorable mascot Oliver Hart, who encourages everyone to give with all of your heart Oliver Hart. A great introduction to what HCM is all about can be found on the front page of the HCM website:

Spiritual care and belonging for people with disabilities. We all have gifts; they differ.
I love that. Under Shellie's leading, the staff and volunteers find creative ways to foster the development of the unique gifts of the beautiful people they serve and equip them to participate in community in meaningful and legitimate ways. And they came up with a fun way for me to serve with my own gifts. I make birthday cards for HCM to give to their members, and I usually include a cartoon animal and suitable pun. For example, a cow card might say, "We herd it's your birthday. We hope it's udderly moovelous." Shellie loves puns and encourages me in my punny ways. It seems the whole HCM community enjoys this lighthearted tone set by Shellie.

Beautiful friendships are formed at and through HCM. Shellie talks to and about the participants as her friends all the time. It's wonderful to see people living with disabilities, who have often faced exclusion and barriers, belong to and thrive in meaningful community.

Shellie is clearly the heartbeat of Hope Centre Ministries. It's an honour that such a busy and sought-out woman took the time to both read my manuscript and to write an endorsement for the book. I couldn't think of anyone more qualified to weigh in on the topics related to disability in Invisibly Ill and Living with Hope.

The Endorsement

Invisibly Ill and Living with Hope offers a refreshingly honest glimpse into the complexities of navigating life with multiple disabilities. Robyn's vulnerability sprinkled with humour and detailed descriptions invite readers to walk in her shoes, gaining a deeper understanding of some of the challenges and triumphs that come with living with invisible disabilities. Her teacher-heart shines through as she encourages curiosity and limits judgement, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to be more inclusive and empathetic. Shellie Power, Bachelor of Special Education, Executive Director of Hope Centre Ministries

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